Putting one of the new run (2012) KATO SD90/43MAC to the standardized BArailsystem tests. Also a quick 360* overview and some of me droning on about various details.
Specifications (stock) :
DCC Ready KATO lightboard
Light tube headlights/rearlights/pilot mounted ditch lights (incorrect)
Assembly required for grab irons, handrails, sinclair antenna, wipers, pilot details, number boards, K3 reverse air horn.
Released in June 2012 in the following paint schemes and road numbers: MSRP $195.00
Canadian Pacific 9138 9152
Union Pacific 8030 8065
Indiana Railroad 9002 9005
Stock weight: 608 grams
Weight after modifications: 616 grams
Drawbar pull: 111 grams
Drawbar push: 105 grams
Specifications: (after BArailsystem upgrade)
Soundtraxx Tsunami TSU-TK1000
QSI Solutions Mini-oval speaker
QSI Solutions Mini-oval enclosure
Details West pewter ditch light castings w/ lenses DL-228 pilot mount top "EMD"
Details West Nathan K3 Reverse #4 AH-253
Ulrich models (2) - 1000 ohm 1/8 watt resistor
Ulrich models (2) - sunny white with 6" leads (ditch configuration)
Model power - town people (2) for cab figures
Weight after modifications: 616 grams
Drawbar pull: 111 grams
Drawbar push: 105 grams
Detail: Very good, many modeller applied details are supplied. A few prototypical details missing on the CP such as the tri-sinclair antennae but still well tooled. Handrails and grab irons all installed by the modeller. 8/10
Operation : Excellent low speed, smooth quiet drive 9/10
Sound: N / A
Weight/pulling capabilities: Incredibly heavy (608 grams) can easily pull 12 cars up 2% grade with 25" radius curves. Pulls like a beast. 9.5/10
Lighting - Incorrect ditch lights on all units - boo Kato! Get it right and put them on the deck. Lights are LED's through tubes. First thing I redid as soon as I got the locomotive. Only real flaw to this beautifully done locomotive. 5/10
TOTAL SCORE: 7.88 / 10
Watch it switching the yard on my layout:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YUX8a0...
Funny note about these units: They were hated by crews and were nicknamed "Crap90's" because of the poor cab layout and tiny bathroom. Also, should you be interested in purchasing one of the prototypes for this model, CP is currently looking to lease/sell the entire fleet of 48 SD90/43MACs.
More HO scale locomotive review & tests:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL079496909FA5E9B4
