I am about to take on the task of replacing the dynamic brake fan and radiator fans on a couple of Bachmann Spectrum GP30's. Replacing them with Cannon and Co. fans and Plano hatches. Thus correcting the "fan mistake". Thus creating an area to emit sound for when the sound decoders go in.

My question being, is the 36" fan available? Is it the same one for a GP35 made by Cannon & Co?

And has anyone ever attempted this upgrade? I have some info on the web about correcting the fan mistake, but not a complete blow by blow how to. I guess opting for the Proto2000 GP30 (fan mistake was corrected with they're release) is a possibility but I have had these Spectrums for a while and want to breathe some new life into them and do what the wallet allows.


Thx,

Any info is appreciated,

Mark

A quick google search did not reveal any GP30 specific fans in a single unit.

That said, you can combine kits to pull this off. My GUESS is that you can "back date" the Cannon & Co GP35 fan with one of the Plano kits meant to improve the P2K fans.

I'm not sure if all the rivets match, but then I'm the only one counting . However, the more "visible" differences in the fan shroud should be accounted for by replacing the Cannon etched parts with the Plano ones.

The Cannon fan

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The Plano details

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Do remember to check the prototype photos if you can

Depending on the unit, it may not have its original fans all the way through to when you model. Not only does this make the model unique, but it makes your life easier if it turns out in the end that the GP30 you're modeling ended up with a GP35 fan anyway.

I don't know about other railroads since I model mostly Santa Fe, with Santa Fe if a locomotive was in the shop and they needed a door or a fan or any other part to get it out the door and into service, they would install whatever fit whether it was the right fan or not.