
( Brand: Bowser ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 24448 ), ( Part Type: Bc )
The SD40-2 Bowser locomotive, model number 24448 from Graham Farish, is an intricately detailed and highly realistic representation of this iconic American Freight locomotive. The SD40-2 is part of the widely successful road switcher series produced by EMD (Electro-Motive Division) between 1972 and 1986. This particular model from Graham Farish showcases the British company's exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Exterior Features:The SD40-2 Bowser features a superbly detailed, finely-painted body that describes the original locomotive's powerful and imposing appearance. The uncannily stylish long hood and short hood design - which hides the engine's cooling equipment underneath - offers a sleek, aerodynamic profile and is accurate in every manner. The body comes in the classic, bold colors of Burlington Northern Railway (BN), one of the locomotive's most famous paint schemes. While the locomotive's body is a work of art on its own, its underframe, trucks, and wheels are equally authentic right down to the smallest details such as the condensate filler and various wiring covers.
Interior Features:Graham Farish spared no expense when it came to the interior. The locomotive houses a fully-detailed cabin with a smoothly operating crew, realistic windshield wipers, and illuminated knobs and switches. The detailing extends to the underfloor, where you'll find an accurate boiler and firebox. The ten-pole motor ensures the locomotive runs smoothly, while the flywheel guarantees it can handle all sorts of tracks and conditions.
Sound and Controls:What sets this SD40-2 Bowser apart from others, is the sound system by LokSound. This innovative technology provides authentic locomotive sounds and speech, simulating different prototypes and conditions. Tap into a new dimension of railway modeling with eight different Horn sounds, 3 different bell sounds, and static or dynamic brake squeals. These sounds can be controlled through the separately sold LokProgrammer or via the DCC controller.
Active Couplers:The SD40-2 Bowser comes with Graham Farish's award-winning EZ Fit Kadee couplers. These couplers make mating, uncoupling, and switching an effortless experience by allowing the locomotive to operate smoothly and naturally in all positions.
Warranty and Compatibility:In line with Graham Farish's high standards of quality, the SD40-2 Bowser comes with a two-year warranty against manufacturing defects. The locomotive is fully compatible with all major N Scale Command Control Systems and suitable for any railway based on North American railroads.
Additional Inclusions:Around the locomotive you ll find a detailed fuel tank, exhaust stack, and several other carefully crafted vanguards. For added durability, the model is constructed from tinplate and other high-quality materials.
In summary, the SD40-2 Bowser model number 24448 from Graham Farish is a must-have for all railway enthusiasts. Its striking presence, intricately detailed interior and exterior design, dynamic sound system, and compatibility with various controlling systems truly makes it a stand-out piece in any collection.
The SD40-2 locomotive produced by Bowser (catalog number 24448) for G Scale model railroading, specifically the GC version for Bachmann Branchline (GMD), is a popular choice among hobbyists. This locomotive is also equipped with the LokSound Select Decoder. In this response, we will discuss the key pros and cons of purchasing this model to help you make an informed decision.
Pros:1. LokSound Decoder: The LokSound decoder offers more realistic sounds and functions compared to standard DCC decoders. It also provides more control with easy programmability.
2. High Detail Level: This model is known for its high level of detail, closely resembling the real-life SD40-2 locomotives. The body paint and lettering are accurately depicted, and it has numerous separately applied parts, such as handrails and couplers.
3. Functional Features: This locomotive offers Proto-Sound 3.0 sound, thermal exhaust, electric or air horns, and directional lighting. These features add to the realism and enjoyment of the model.
4. Good Value: For a G Scale SD40-2 locomotive equipped with a sound decoder and detailed features, this model presents a reasonable value.
5. Suitable for O Gauge Track: Although it is classified as a G Scale model, the SD40-2 24448 can run on O Gauge track with some minor modifications and filing down of the wheels' flanges. This adaptability broadens its usage and versatility.
Cons:1. Wheels: This model's factory-installed wheels can sometimes produce excessive sparks during switching operations, and small particles may come off. A wheel swap using IND Axles or equivalent replacement wheel sets is recommended to address this issue.
2. Repaint: Some hobbyists have reported difficulties in repainting certain body parts, specifically the cab interior and fuel tanks, due to their complex shapes and delicate details.
3. Clearance: The roof-mounted antenna and other protruding components might require some clearance modifications on tight radii and curved sections of a G Scale layout due to the model's size.
In conclusion, the Bowser SD40-2 24448 GMD BC Rail LokSound model offers several appealing features, such as the LokSound decoder, high detail level, and functional features like directional lighting. However, it also comes with some drawbacks, such as the need for wheel replacement and limitations with repainting specific parts. The overall consensus among hobbyists suggests that, if the drawbacks are addressed properly, the model offers excellent value for the price and realism in G Scale model railroading. Based on the assessment of the pros and cons, we would recommend this SD40-2 model for hobbyists looking to invest in a detailed and feature-rich locomotive.