Anyone know of any manufacturer, any scale planning a release of hi-hood U25B's? Looks like it could be a good idea?? The Union Pacific also had that model that would open up a larger fan base. A four unit lash-up in Frisco black yellow was a sight to see (and hear)! Tom G.
As much as I would love to see it happen I sure doubt we will. Oriental issued it in brass in the early 80s. I think with the right shapeways designer it could be copied. I have no idea what that would cost though. I have thought about that since they started. I have the brass version and have scratchbuilt/ kitbashed a couple in plastic , but I really think the way to go is solidworks designer and have shapeways cut them. I have seen that rute come a long way in a short time. Even a person smarter than me with a 3D printer might be able to pull it off. I thought along the same lines as you, promoting to the UP crowd might gain some interest.
I agree that it's not going to happen with the high nose and it's a shame that not more prototypes didn't embrace the high nose. Since I didn't want to lose and arm and a leg trying to afford the brass model (if it could be found) I decided to modify one of my low nose Stewart's. Larry F.
Really nice job!! Got another (sort of) related question: Are Frisco models hard for manufacturers to sell? Do they wind up being stuck with unsold models?? It doesn't seem so, after a model's release date, the models are very difficult to find should you miss the original release. Seems to me the manufacturers aren't going broke vainly trying to sell Frisco models. Just askin... Tom G.
Larry: Your kitbashed High Nose looks GREAT! As for me, I would fear the steps much more than the hand rails. Handrails you keep bending until you get it right... the steps on the other hand... great work.
Larry--I guess it hasn't crossed your mind to do two or three more of those for a big time lash up! )) Tom G.
Thank you all for your responses--they are most appreciated. The handrails weren't too bad once I figured out a forming jig but a lot of bent wire to get to that point. John, you're right about not considering more units--sometimes when I'm mid project or something's not working I sit and wonder why did even start this thing. Larry
