Large Scale Central

Is Aristo ever going to finish the SD9 project?

General Discussion
#1

I am wondering if Aristo Craft is ever going to finish the SD9 project? They seem to keep bringing out other stuff, while keeping the SD9 on the back burner. Lack of interest from modelers? One would think an early 6 axle EMD would be of high interest to modelers, much like the Dash9 GE’s are to modern era modelers. Anybody have some insight if we will ever see this engine make it to production or did it just become a white elephant?

#2

Mike I think you’ll find it is probably something to do with the economy? I would agree that for modelers in the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s era a SD9 or 7 would fill a avoid. I’m waiting for the SW 1. I think the SD 9 was announced before the switcher? Have you tried the Aristo forum, someone or even Lewis could fill you in? IN mho Steam locomotives seem to be taking off right now. I haven’t seen a new diesel offering since the USA S-4 that has interested me.

#3

Mike Toney said:
Lack of interest from modelers?

Yes.

(http://planetsmilies.net/tired-sleeping-smiley-4681.gif)

-Brian

#4

You might want to ask on the Aristo forum, “How are you coming with the SD 9?”

#5

How long? How long have we been waiting for the standard gauge Connie ??? I’m really surprised, the connies development I can kinda understand, but dismals are the easiest by far to manufacture.

#6

If you go back and search the Aristo forum you will find that the SD-9 was canceled. Its not on the back burner, Aristo has no plans to produce it. That was posted well over a year ago on the Aristo forum.

George

#7

Lewis has stated uncategorically that he will not make it. I believe him, I got the emotion in his voice when he told me.

Aristo will most likely concentrate on shorter wheelbase and 2 axle diesels for some time, again according to a direct conversation with Lewis.

Don’t worry, someone else is working on a SD9 right now, and it will be a very nice model if all indications are right.

Regards, Greg

#8
Greg Elmassian said:
Don't worry, someone else is working on a SD9 right now, and it will be a very nice model if all indications are right.
Its not a big jump to put 3 axle trucks on a GP-9 ;) .

-Brian

#9

That’s right, or to take the Aristo 3 axle blocks and make an SD-9.

This is not about effort, it’s about the perception of “will it sell” by the manufacturer.

But, to your comment Brian, how close is the USAT GP7/9 body to an SD 7/9 body?

Regards, Greg

#10

purty close!

(http://www.usatrains.com/gif/GP7parts.gif)

(http://www.mtmuseum.org/jsr/roster/BN-SD9-Diagram.jpg)

better SD-9 line drawing here but can’t repost it - http://www.locodata.info/locogifs.html

#11

While they are very similar, there are some differences that would require retooling. Take a look at the intake screens, they would have to be repositioned. There are also differences in the number and position of the fans on the roof.

Still, they are close enough that most anyone with the desire and the proper tools could bash a reasonable facsimile.

#12

Some comparison sheets:

http://www.thedieselshop.us/Data%20EMD%20GP9.HTML

http://www.thedieselshop.us/Data%20EMD%20SD9.HTML

for those interested…