MTH Rail King RSD body size

Bob,

Here's what I read on another forum that might be of help:

Yes the body is the same, RS3 = RS4/5 (discounting any differences in phases or rr specific modifications).

No the RSC-2/3 trucks are very different design from a RSD4/5.  The RSC uses a short wheelbase A-1-A truck (3 axles, 2 traction motors, 1 idler axle) and the RSD uses a C truck (3 axles, 3 traction motors)

I also believe that an RSC uses an RS2 body which is a little different than an RS3 body, mostly in the battery boxes (steps) around the cab.

If you put a RS3 shell on an RSD4/5 chassis you end up with an RSD4/5.

If true, you might be able to find a RS3 body easier/cheaper.

I have a Railking RS3 and a Weaver RS3.  Everyone has discussed which one is more accurate and from my perspective there's not an once of difference between the two.  I picked up a Weaver RS3 pretty cheap not long ago.

The A1A trucks may be a problem, unless you plan on making your own like you're doing with your 41class.

Seaboard had the RSC2 and 3, I'm hoping but I doubt I'll ever see a RTR model from any manufacturer, not many RRs had them.

Here's some interesting reading:

http://www.american-rails.com/alco-rsd4.html

Hope this helps and Merry Christmas to my mate from down under!!!

Thanks Bob, and you have a merry Christmas too.

Sounds like the body will be OK then. I mainly want it for the two hoods and was concerned it might have been shortened for the toy market. I have seen one done using the Atlas version but they are hard to find and often pricey. The trucks will be made just like the 41 class. I have done the conversion in N scale and S scale before. My S scale one used the old toy market fudge of 3 axle sideframes outside 2 axle bogies. The American Models mech ran so sweetly I changed scale before I got around to making the new mechs.

Perhaps it might be possible to modify some trucks which would give you a unique model too Bob. Any AlCo is a good AlCo. :>

regards

 Bob