Detailing SD45's and SD40-2

[dproline]

Hi Guys,
Dennis here, well I did it. I bought 2 Athearn SD-45's N&W. Yes, you were right, Sigfanusaf they are lookers! Also bought 1 Athearn SD40-2 in N&S thought I could bring it around to maybe N&W#1627-1630 with air eraser, rearrange details and repaint. What do you think?
By the way. I guess my real question is, has anyone made up a parts list for these type locomotives? Like the diamond decking, brass steps, etc. Not so much interested in changing fans, Athearns look pretty good. Also, anyone know where I can get the large NW lettering in white? One last question, anyone know what color paint Athearn uses for these locomotives? Im sure everyones busy but any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you kindly,
Dennis

[Randy Earle]

Dennis, the Athearn SD-45 is based on the Rail Power Products shell, so you can use the tread plates and steps meant for the Rail Power. The SD-40 is also. (not the SD40-2) Most N&W units had a 5 chime horn with two bells forward and three back, a Details West 191 should work. For the N&W 13D lettering I use Shell Scale decals or Herald King, both can be found doing a search on Google. Any gloss black should work.

[CIOR]

I saw the new release (NS and INRD) SD40-2's at the hobby shop Monday and I will say they do look very nice. Almost good enough to just plop on the layout and run. Athearn finally took the step to add MU hoses, a cleaner looking plow, and cut lever. A tad bit of paint and you will really have a nice looking engine.

[cnwidecabnut]

Hi Randy,

In your picture above, who makes all the pilot details? (and what are the part numbers?) They look so much more realistic than the DA stuff I use. BTW thats a great looking unit. Thanks,

[Randy Earle]

Details West

266 3 Hose MU Cluster
267 Trainline hose w/bracket
221 MU Cable w/receptacle

Thanks for the Kudos.