11-18-2011, 03:27 PM
I got a second U50 -- photos show that two did sometimes operate together, though they more commonly seem to have run with DD35Bs. (Shame Athearn isn't doing those, but I'll almost certainly be getting Centennials when they come out.)
If a single turbine or U50 can handle 12-15 cars on my layout, two should manage 25, which is about as long a train as I'd want to run for layout tours/open houses.
Athearn includes a second set of side ladders/steps for the rear of the loco, along with an optional bell. The reason seems to be to allow the loco to get around sharper curves. The second ladder seems to work OK on 24 inch curves. The bell is OK on 30, at least, haven't checked it out on 24 yet. The photo shows the second ladder installed on 45, not yet on 53.
If a single turbine or U50 can handle 12-15 cars on my layout, two should manage 25, which is about as long a train as I'd want to run for layout tours/open houses.
Athearn includes a second set of side ladders/steps for the rear of the loco, along with an optional bell. The reason seems to be to allow the loco to get around sharper curves. The second ladder seems to work OK on 24 inch curves. The bell is OK on 30, at least, haven't checked it out on 24 yet. The photo shows the second ladder installed on 45, not yet on 53.