Posted by Jeff G. (69.200.85.20) on August 02, 2007 at 06:32:36:
In Reply to: STRICTLY SCALE IHP BODIES A WIN-WIN FOR ALL! posted by WJAYW on July 31, 2007 at 15:39:08:
Jay:
I guess you've been reading some of the discourse between me and C.E. Cox. Your and Pat's points are all well taken, especially about the Proto 1000 cars being ready to run. It really is a double-edged sword here; on the one hand having something RTR being produced and marketed by a major manufacturer is a dream come true for us modelers, and makes our niche known and accessible to the model railroad community as a whole. On the other, the fact that the cars are out of scale because of manufacturing compromises is a bit of a drag. Yet despite this, I bought a set when they first came out simply because they were available!
I suppose it's the same with On2/12 modeling. Bachmann turned what was essentially a modeling compromise into a viable commercial product line in its own right (much to the consternation of the purists no doubt). Yeah, it would've been ideal if the Proto cars were to scale, and I almost hope they don't produce other out of scale body styles to fit this chassis. Notice I said ALMOST!
I enjoy the process of building/bashing models, but if something is available RTR or in kit form, I'll take it. And so what if the Bowser trucks are 4 scale inches off. That is a compromise I and many of us can live with if it means a relatively affordable power unit.
As I've stated before, it's about time and money. I have not and probably will not buy brass purely for economic reasons. That has enabled me to do it for myself and I thoroughly enjoy the process. So hurrah for IHP, Images Replicas and any other manufacturer who can help. Now, how about some BU gate car, Lo-V/Hi-V, multi's and any other pre-unification prototype? Don't forge detail parts (like end gates for my ungated gate cars!) Love to see a set of Bluebirds riding on a Bowser or Bachmann PCC chassis!
Best,
JG