I'm not an expert in this era of cars but do know they won't work for the Lehigh Valley, especially in the 8300 series. That grouping of two orders (8300-8399) and (7140-7189) were from the Despatch shops and clearly note their NYC roots. The first two batches of Valley were Pennsy built X58 A and B, (7100-7139) and (8200-8259) the post count is correct though for a stand in, but the ends are identical to the Reading XMy, which Athearn doesn't replicate. The roof should be a diagonal panel. At $25.98, costly to be cut up for accuracy.

I suspect it is a re-hashed Athearn exterior post plug door car, around since 1967 or so. Sides match a a PRR X58 exactly, but ends are older style 5-5 dreadnaught and do not have the proper roof either...could be more accurately kitbashed from AccuRail and or the former Branchline line that Atlas acquired and may still offer separate ends, roofs, etc. Athearn has a lot of nerve to charge 25.98 for the same die work that sold as 1.98 and was close to state of the art whenintroduced nearly 45 years ago!

Thanks guys! I had my suspicions that these weren’t correct simply based on Athearn’s habit of “retreading old tires” when it comes to “new” car releases.

So, it looks like I’ll pass on these. Darn, got all excited for nothing. Maybe we’ll get lucky and Exactrail or Tangent will offer the correct cars some day.

Mitch, regarding Branchline parts availability from Atlas: I tried about a two weeks ago to get some replacement parts for one of their Berwick kits and was told that they did not receive any separate parts when they acquired Branchline. So, if you want parts for scratch building, you have to find undecorated kits (which are getting scarce) or buy decorated kits and strip the paint off the parts.

Thanks, Mark

Don't get me wrong.. I don't dislike Athearn, and have some detailed Athearn models myself.. just what they offer for recycled 40-50 year old diework, including old MDC releases, is a bit disingenuous at the least...I wouldn't criticize anyone for having Athearn models from the RTR line....and they do an incredible job on the artwork compared to the "old" Athearn days.. but $25??? C'mon!

Looks like Kato has announced GP35's 1a's.At this time paint schemes in SF and NYC.I believe undecorated models will be available.They are also advertising road specific details.Future RDG releases? who knows,but I welcome the undecorated units.

Might have jumped the gun on the road specific details...I believe Kato is referring to wether the unit was equipped with or without dynamic brakes.

Also,I'm interested in getting a few of Funaro&Cam.RDG Xad's.Seeing that I've never worked with any type of resin kits,I'm looking for any recommendations.Trucks,prep work,painting,etc.etc.