Proto 2000 FA and FB--Frisco

Discussion in 'Diesel Locomotives' started by adams, Sep 3, 2010.

  1. adams

    adams QLA-QSF

    Hello All, Does anyone have experience with the Life Like Proto 2000 FA and FB? I was able to pick up a new boxed set for $43, which seemed like a steal. Both units appear to be powered. Any comments on how prototypical the models are, running qualities, bugs to look out for? Thanks, Chris
     
  2. meteor910

    meteor910 2009 Engineer of the Year Staff Member Frisco.org Supporter

    Chris -

    Congratulations on your purchase. The Proro 2000 Alco FA & FB models are indeed fine models, both powered. Mine run great, after a little break-in time. Keep the wheels clean.

    It's a very accurate and well done model of the FA1/FB1 series. To me, the nose shape is a bit too angular, and the yellow is a bit too light, but I'm picking nits here. The model is painted in the Alco delivery scheme, with yellow handrails. Very shortly later, the Frisco painted the handrails black. The Frisco also painted the road number on each side which Alco did not provide. I added those using Microscale 87-85 decals (HO). I also added handrails over the windshields, and ladder grabs on the nose.

    I have pics of my units (A-B-A SLSF 5200/5300/5215) posted in my picture album here on frisco.org. Take a look. Others have their models posted in their albums as well.

    One other thing I did to 5215 was to change the turbo exhaust to the later water-cooled type. P2K has the air-cooled turbo installed on the model, but you should have the water turbo in the parts package included with your models. The air turbo caused a lot of problems, and Alco retro-fitted many of these units, including several for the Frisco, with the water turbo.

    Ken
     
  3. Iantha_Branch

    Iantha_Branch Member

    I have a set of these. One thing I will add is that they have a working radiator fan in the units.:cool:
     
  4. meteor910

    meteor910 2009 Engineer of the Year Staff Member Frisco.org Supporter

    As I recall, I think the operating radiator fan was on the earlier Proto 2000 FA2/FB2 release.

    The Proto 2000 FA1/FB1 fans do not operate. These were released several years after the FA2/FB2.

    Ken
     
  5. gjslsffan

    gjslsffan Staff Member Staff Member

    Chris
    You might take a close look at the axle gears on those. Proto had issues with them splitting. Walthers will replace them or you can install Athearn axle gears.
    Tom
     

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