kpack
Road Foreman
Posts: 77
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Post by kpack on Aug 18, 2014 0:24:29 GMT -5
Does anyone know if Kato trucks are a drop-in replacement on an Athearn C44-9W frame? I know the motor can be swapped, but I've never heard anything about the trucks. If possible, I'd prefer to use Kato trucks as they usually run much quieter than the Athearn RTR version.
Thanks, Kevin
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Post by lajmdlr on Aug 18, 2014 11:28:11 GMT -5
Kevin Can't remember which way it was but about 14 years ago did that between those two. You'll have to do some modifications to both to make it work so itcan be done.
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Post by emd16645 on Aug 18, 2014 15:46:46 GMT -5
Here are a few photos that might help you make the call. The photos are of an athearn BB frame, but a quick comparison to my RTR frame doesn't suggest they are different. Trucks - Kato on right Frame - Kato on top
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kpack
Road Foreman
Posts: 77
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Post by kpack on Aug 18, 2014 20:40:15 GMT -5
Thanks for the input guys. Judging by the pictures it looks like it would require some significant modifications to get the Kato trucks to fit. That's not something I'm going to do.
I'll stick with remotoring the locomotives using the Kato motor (should be a drop-in replacement), and will tune the Athearn trucks to run silently.
Thanks! Kevin
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Post by emd16645 on Aug 18, 2014 21:12:23 GMT -5
In looking at the frames, I think there could be the option of modifying Athearn shells for use on Kato frames. The ends look virtually identical, the only difference is the Kato frame is a bit mor built up around the fuel tank. This is probably due in part to how the Athearn shell attaches to the frame.
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kpack
Road Foreman
Posts: 77
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Post by kpack on Aug 18, 2014 23:56:52 GMT -5
True, but I'd like to avoid the Kato frame if an all possible. I can't stand how they cast that angle underneath the sill. It makes it impossible to add any piping, cables, etc under the sill. That is unless you have a mill to take all that metal off....which I don't have. I feel that the Athearn model is a better base for detailing, and the Kato drive is superior for running. Replacing the Athearn motor with the Kato seems to be the best of both worlds!
-Kevin
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Post by emd16645 on Aug 19, 2014 6:23:41 GMT -5
Definitely valid points about the Kato frames. Been one reason that my Dash 9 project is in hold. Hopefully I can get my hands on a mill at somepoint, just not in the cards for now.
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