EMD SD40-2 Train Locomotive

This is my favorite locomotive. I love the long decks. When I get one in a lot, I have to keep it. I have been selling trains on eBay for years. And SD40-2 is my weakness, even if it wont run well.

My goal is to get a real one when I have more land. They were made many years ago and get old. I would think finding one with a bad motor would be possible. I would take the motor out, and use that space for a railroad layout. The gas tanks can be used for back up gas storage, just in case.

The log decks would be great for gatherings. Plus I could than paint it in anyway I want if it needs it.

This was a great excuse to do this with my HO people.

Now when getting Hobby scale SD40's, You need to check several variations, because the differences are so slight, and if the person selling them doesn't have the box, then they miss the -2. Check these variations

SD40
SD40-2
SD40A
SD38
SD35

The one I prefer the long decks on both sides and flared radiators. Some even have a longer nose.

The biggest issue I found with the scale SD40-2s is because the wheel set is partially under the long decks, that the motors often have a hard time getting strength to the wheels, and used ones often don't work because of the interference of the decks. Getting a cheap Bachmann or Tyco SD40-2 is not a great idea.
I have a couple of old Athearns, one has some of the insides carved away where the wheel set touches the deck structure and the other one runs fine with out the body on. LOL.

Get the best to avoid that issue. My best one of course is a Kato and it runs so smooth. You get what you pay for.