A bit off topic but the Minnesota Transportation Museum is looking for help to repaint its SDP40 back to Great Northern Big Sky Blue this year. This is one of the only SDP40s left in existence, it was the last working passenger locomotive on a Class I railroad, and any help in preserving this unit would be appreciated!

Here's to hoping that Athearn releases an SDP40 someday to follow up on their excellent SDP45s as well.

I have at long last bought a Proto 2000 BL2 undecorated unit. I am fond of anything so ugly that it is beautiful (I am a living example). I want to do it up in Bangor and Aroostook. I've found lots of pics online for detailing ideas.

I'm seeking out an expert on such a thing. I want to know at what time the solid blue scheme was applied and who does the best decals for same? Also which brand/color of paint is best for the B&A Blue?

GregW66

My grandpa operated one of these up to his retirement years. I remember him taking me and my brother to work with him. I wish I was old enough to take pictures. Since I have many shays like he operated, I decided why not the diesel?

More of the Same, But Different

Time to assign some power to an early 60’s Southern Pacific passenger train. One loco will be a Life Like era Proto 2000 E8 in Black Widow. As on the UP e-units, the Kato motor transplant, drive line upgrades, truck tuning, LED lights, and Tsunami 2 are the same. The choice of speakers and mounting are different. More follows