Wabash Valley Lines, Inc. F7

Model Manufacturer Info

Manufacturer:

Wabash Valley Lines, Inc.

Manufacturer ID:

772.2-64-100

Prototype Info

Category:

Year/Era:

1949

Manufacturer:

Electro-Motive Division (EMD)

Dimensions:

50'8"

Ext. Reference:

visit site

Ext. Reference:

visit site

Ext. Reference:

visit site

Model Info

Gauge:

Introduced:

1985

Product Type:

Resin

Finish:

unpainted

Power:

No Chassis

Supplemental Part:

Exhaust Stack

Notes:

The Wabash Valley shells are an improved version of the Enhorning F-unit casts (the Enhorning ones had a deformation on their roof top and a crease on the side). Compared to prototype photos, the Wabash Valley Models shells represent F3 phase IV (9/1948 to 2/1949) EMD bodies. The shell has the slight "V"-shape above the rear end flat door panel, which is consistent with F3 body ends, but there is no roof overhang. The shell has the two rectangular roof vents for the dynamic brakes which are an F3 phase IV feature. Some shell modifications would need to be made by the modeler to represent a true F7. Originally, the recommendation was to use an American Models FP7 chassis to power these models. However, the American Models GP9 (which was not available back then) is a much better fit and will only require some corner trimming of the GP9's metal base. Also, the trucks line up better with the shell. Additional details, such as simulated glass and couplers will need to be added by the modeler for a complete model.

Bill's model has undergone some improvements by replacing the affected portions of the shell with brass detailing parts.

Mark Mugnai has shells that have four or six chassis mounting posts. Mark found that the original Enhorning shells had the center posts, but that they have to be removed to be able to mount a chassis into the shell.