|
Hi everyone, Today I am posting yet another batch from contributor Kent Charles. Kent sent a CD full of six axle BN power, and a lone C&S SD9. As an N scale modeller, I have sought after SD40 photos several years before I got into photography myself. I also sought GP38-2's, GP50's, U30C's, and later SD7's and 9's, GP35's and GP30's and their modern rebuild counterparts, since excellent Kato-made models exist for all of these units. Since my interest is modern intermodal, the SD40-2 is a must have for early 90's BN intermodal power. Since there is no SD40-2 in N scale worth owning (if you are spoiled on Kato like me), then the SD40 is the next best thing, as it is very similar. While I had good luck finding shots of most of these units, the SD40 was particularly elusive. Most of them were sold to the new Montana Rail Link, and only a handful were left. An SD40-2 photo was not acceptable, it had to be an SD40, and I got very proficient at telling the difference, even though roster numbers get very confusing, as identical numbers were held by both SD40's and SD40-2's. I still do slip up at times, hoping that SD40-2 pictures are really SD40's. I just noticed that I goofed on and 6339:1 when I posted it a couple years ago and misidentified it as 6339:2. See if you can tell the difference (or see hint below). I am sure others have had similar difficulty finding SD40 photos, with the exception of 6318 (painted in a one of a kind whiteface variation), 6321 (the only whiteface SD40, now that the GATX units are LLPX), and 6339:2 (I don't know what it is about this unit, must be that unusual ex-CB&Q/C&S nose headlight that makes it stand out) which are distinct SD40's still on the roster. With Kent's six shots of SD40's, all units I did not have shots of previously, if you are an N scaler looking for that elusive SD40 shot, this may be your lucky day! Now if I could just get my hands on a few of the C&S SD40's in CB&Q paint with BN numbers.... Mmmm. Even green C&S would be nice - I only have one - C&S #876. Oh, if you still are not sure about 6339:2, check the trucks vs. 6339:1. One could argue that the headlight got moved, but the trucks are an unquestionable spotting feature. |
