I've reached "critical mass" of 50+ reservations to make the GP38/38AC/38-2 a 'go' project. The wheelbase is suitable for the GP40/40-2 so I expect that kit will be offered next year. The "38" design will start once the SAL B7 boxcar is in production (design of the HO B7 is well-along and should be in full production by late February).
The "38" kit will be based around a 1-pc urethane shell that drops onto a RTR NWSL mechanism equipped with code 110 wheels and wired for straight DC. The motor will be isolated to ease DCC installation. The body will include the characteristic Dash 2 water sight glass and a cast urethane plug to fill it in to model the plain '38. AF-compatible wheelsets are no longer an option. There will be more urethane and etched details with this engine than my previous offerings because there are many differences between GP38 "phases" than with earlier engines, such as the GE 70-tonners. A "Plain Jane" '38 built between1967-68 without a dynamic brake blister and filter box will be the base unit. Separate details (included in the kit) will be a drop-on air filter (paper filter for the GP38AC), dynamic brake blister, large/small fuel tanks, etc. Handrail stanchions will be injection molded and cored for a wire railing that you will form. Where applicable, photo-etching will be used to create fine details like fan grills and fan blades. A hi-nose version is also planned for those that model Southern Ry., N&W (GP38ACs), NdeM and shortlines. This is the first "modern" diesel for SMMW but it won't be the last. The GP40 and SD40 (and Dash-2 versions of each) are planned. After that, I'm open for suggestions (I know there is interest in U-boats). Target retail price is $425 including all of the parts to create a "basic" GP38, GP38AC or GP38-2. Road-specific details, such as snow plows, are the responsibility of the modeler. Contact me off-list to place a no-money-required reservation. Jim King Smoky Mountain Model Works, Inc. Ph. (828) 777-5619 <www.smokymountainmodelworks.com>
