New HO Athearn SW1500

Thanks, Bob, they are who I was talking about. I have dealt with them at a train show here in Tulsa and was very pleased with their friendliness and willingness to talk to the customer. I am waiting for your next post.

Terry

 

To All:

This message serves as an update to my previous post on the pricing from Spring Creek Hobbies in Nebraska on the Athearn SW1500's. The pre-order price if placed before the deadline of 11/22/13 is $94.00 which is a 25% discount. Spring Creek only charges actual Priority Mail shipping based on zip code with no Handling Charges. As an example Deb estimated the cost to ship one locomotive to Tulsa, OK to be between $6.00 and $8.00. They DO NOT require a deposit. If anyone has any further questions or would like to place and order call 402-365-7628 and ask for Deb. They are usually gone to shows Friday through Monday so factor that in.

 

To All:

I have just received an email from my contact at Athearn about the changes that I proposed to them concerning the upcoming SW1500 project. Below is the list of changes that I received:

• A single cab sunshade on the fireman's side (none on the engineer's side because of the all-weather window)
• The early, straight coupler cut lever
• The beacon
• The vent on the front of the cab (actually not a change, because it is part of the cab casting – it just isn't drawn on the artwork)
• The ratchet brake recess will be red/orange

The pre-order cut-off date is today (11/22/13) so if you haven't ordered your' yet from your favorite dealer you still have time to get a good deal. Also thanks to all of you who submitted ideas and/or suggestions.

 

I agree with Keith's comments, Bob, and I did contact Deb and ordered my SW1500s. She remembered that you had told her I would be calling which impressed me because I am sure they are very busy people.

Terry

 

I think it is GREAT that you take the time and effort to go forward with your research and "salesmanship" with the manufacturing contacts to get the products we have today. I well remember the days when you had to take the best product (Athearn blue box kits) and spend hours on them getting the right grills, lights, etc and then had to have the ability to paint and decal them. Even then at best you had a middle of the road unit (body width on GP's). Today we have a fantastic selection of Athearn units to choose from.

Tony L.