Atlas GP40-2W to GP38-2W

[shauncn]

One of my next upcoming projects will be converting an undecorated atlas GP40-2W to a CN GP38-2W. I originaly had plans on starting with a run of the mill P2K GP38-2 and ussing the railflyer cab and parts however I found a decent deal on a undecorated GP40-2W and i'l give it a try, makes the project a bit easier as the cab is ready to go more or less, steps are done already, rear headlights and class lights are done as well on the model, I have to change the non dynamic section, radiator grills and fans and a few other hood details as well but it should come out just fine for a quick and easy conversion.

[iomalley]

There's no easy conversion for these. The blower duct is a half height duct that needs to be changed no matter which route you take.

I would sugg that you change to the railflyer cab as the Atlas cab has dimensional errors in the nose.



The top of the Atlas nose is not wide enough, thuse there is too much sash under the trapezoidal windows. plus the atlas window corner radius is too sharp.

The Canadian Prototype Replica cabs I use are accurate, as is the RF cab...


The easiest way IMHO would be to use the Athearn BB 38-2, mill the frame bolsters down so the unit sits at the proper height, change the steps (rzasa steps or RF) and RF end pilots.

The Atlas GP40-2W would be easy in regards to the frame/drive and deck/steps but you'd be scrapping pretty much the whole shell. (mind you you'd also have snowshield parts if you went this route) but you'd have to source a Proto long hood...

[m636]

The GO version will be more easy er, You will not have to change the rear end of the hood. The GO unit already have the number board and the class light, the CN one doesn't.

www.cnrphotos.com/gallery2/main.php?g2_itemId=76463&g2_imageViewsIndex=2

www.cnrphotos.com/gallery2/main.php?g2_itemId=20859&g2_imageViewsIndex=2


Éric

[shauncn]

changing the blower duct is probably the easiet part of the project, and yes i am starting with the go transit version, we will see how it turns out, i'm well aware the railflyer cab is better, I have on ready to go on a SD40-2W, however the goal of this project was to find a simple starting point, milling athearn frames forget about it. you'l see it'l work out in the end.

[Randy Earle]

I built this with parts from my junk box.