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Post by seayakbill on Mar 7, 2024 19:42:34 GMT
The Menard version is 1 inch longer than K-Lines supposedly scale F-7, 14 1/2 inches vs 13 1/2 inches. So I am guessing the Menards F unit is much closer in size to a FP-9. So whatever category the Menards F unit is, it is a terrific looking diesel. Bill  |
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Post by josef on Mar 7, 2024 20:35:35 GMT
I've seen some Menards F units on layouts at friends and even local train show layout. They don't look bad and they are impressive.
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Post by Adam on Mar 7, 2024 20:53:28 GMT
The K-Line is certainly a bit more detailed, but the Menards unit cant be beat for the price.
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Post by firewood on Mar 7, 2024 21:53:24 GMT
Interesting comparison - the EMD F7 for freight service was a few feet shorter than the passenger model FP7. The FP units had a steam generator for passenger car heat and needed a bit more length. (it was under that rear roof plate with an air intake and a stack sticking up) Both locomotives in the photo seem to have the feature. I wonder which tooling Menards and K-Line used - their own or previously-made?
Dave
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Post by Mopacman on Mar 8, 2024 1:44:04 GMT
I purchased a Menards F unit about 18 months ago, in the Santa Fe color scheme. It has been a frequent runner on my layout. Once purchased, I decided that there needed to be accompanying units for it. As there were no dummy units available when I ordered my engine, I purchased a dummy MTH E8 A unit, as well as a dummy E8 b unit. They look good together. I pull 6 MTH Santa Fe streamlined passenger cars, 60 foot. This Menards unit has never let me down. It is a strong puller. I have regularly kept Ray at Menards Technical Support posted (at his request)on how the engine is running. He is always appreciative, and takes any suggestions that I have on improvements or additions to the Menard's line to the product developers. I have suggested that Menards consider adding b units to the lineup, and possibly passenger cars. No idea if that will ever happen. For those who haven't purchased any engines from Menards, I highly recommend that you consider doing so. If you buy from Menards (not aftermarket) the price is realistic, the quality is good, and the engines and rolling stock are compatible size and quality to start or add to your collection for a reasonable price.
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Post by david1 on Mar 8, 2024 2:02:02 GMT
I have not purchased the F units as of yet but Menards could address a few of the problems I see. The A&B units couple too far apart, the UP units have shells that light bleeds through especially in the front nose.
Lack of conventional control.
I would rather see a single unit like gp38, gp30,35,20 etc.
Dave
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