Menard's Locomotiives

I would assume so. They wouldn't have released the ATSF if more weren't in the works. I have the v1.0 and I like it, warts and all.

Bob

Unfortunately, my Beta 1 version is junk, but I knew what I was getting into when I got it.  It's scheduled some day for a full shopping with internal parts, some repainting, and added detailing.  I feel as if the ATSF might have considered an FP7/9 for branch line routes if they had not already determined that steam boiler equipped GP7/9s could do a better job in dual service. 

With some work, I think the Menard's model could be a real winner and an interesting conversation piece for the ATSF experts who wish to comment on the authenticity of this locomotive in the real world.

While I would think new offerings would be in the works, I would hazard a guess that it may be limited to paint schemes or RTR train sets.  Just my current opinion.

@GG1 4877 posted:

Unfortunately, my Beta 1 version is junk, but I knew what I was getting into when I got it.  It's scheduled some day for a full shopping with internal parts, some repainting, and added detailing.  I feel as if the ATSF might have considered an FP7/9 for branch line routes if they had not already determined that steam boiler equipped GP7/9s could do a better job in dual service.

With some work, I think the Menard's model could be a real winner and an interesting conversation piece for the ATSF experts who wish to comment on the authenticity of this locomotive in the real world.

While I would think new offerings would be in the works, I would hazard a guess that it may be limited to paint schemes or RTR train sets.  Just my current opinion.

Jonathan,

If you wire the motors in series it helps a little bit.  If they made the remotes for any version beyond 1 available as a separate item it solves the problem of the anemic short horn blast.  The Beta 2 and 3 remotes both blow the Beta 1 horn sustained.

John

I think the Menards should stay pretty close to the entry level production of trains.  I am not sure the hobby needs another high end producer.  More variety at the lower end should attract a larger audience to the hobby.

@RSJB18 posted:

I would assume so. They wouldn't have released the ATSF if more weren't in the works. I have the v1.0 and I like it, warts and all.

Bob

"warts and all"

If you have not already done so, you could name your Menard's engine "Oliver" or "Cromwell", warts and all.

@das boot posted:

"warts and all"

If you have not already done so, you could name your Menard's engine "Oliver" or "Cromwell", warts and all.

Or Igor......😂😂