Model Railroading > Alco Century Details - Corner Steps & AAR Trucks

Since I've seen some Alco discussions recently, I figure I'll add to the pile.

I'm working with an older Atlas C424, with Kato drive and frame and Atlas body.  To me, the AAR Type B trucks look a little lacking in detail compared to current models.  Does anyone make a better detailed set of sideframes or complete trucks?

Second, does anyone have a photo of the corner steps of any Century type?  I want to know if the treads are diamond plate, open grating, or something different.  Did MLW use different material than Alco?

Well, the steps may have varied by road(?) And forthcoming models may be more "road specific", as I have found older atlas models to be somewhat generic...

The two C424s I'm working on are both old runs from the 90s - Atlas shell and Kato drivetrain and frame.  One is a phase I and the other is phase II.  I do have an Atlas MLW C424 CP phase III which is newer, with applied details and finer tooling.  The two older C424s will end up as Green Bay & Western #313 (phase II) and #321 (phase I).  GBW purchased #313 new, and #321 joined the roster in March 1980 after overhaul by GE Hornell shops.  #321 started out as EL 2415.  

The corner steps on the model are devoid of any detail and grotesque square molded-on "blocks" on one step each for front handrail stanchion pins.  I will cut off the factory steps and replace with new made from brass, I just don't know if the step treads were solid diamond plate (or similar) or open grating.  I've searched the usual websites for any photos that show the steps clearly, preferrably an overhead shot, but I am coming up empty.

 

I have a few of the Atlas/KATO C425's.   Mainly to do CNW, with a thought of one TP&W.   As you can tell by my nickname I am an ATSF guy but my #3 road is CNW.   I decided not to bother with the older KATO body as the replacement China bodies are better and finer detailed and especially the handrails are finer.     And, for that matter the drives are a bit quieter than the KATO drive,  I think as you asked above the Atlas/China AAR B trucks have better detail as well.   Since I already have the KATO units (six I think) I bought from Atlas complete China bodies, handrails and all for a some super cheap price.    That was my compromise to save a buck on the drives, plus KATOs do run sweet and repair parts are available new from KATO.   I have never had any KATO gears split in half either.

Richard.

Richard - I’d be glad to work with the newer China bodies, but I had these two available and they fit the project. The MLW C424 I have is the newer China run and I know it is a good improvement, no argument. Unfortunately I see only C425 shells available on the Atlas website.

Andy W Scale trains makes some cast resin steps which are specific for the former EL C425s the British Columbia Railway bought and subsequently rebuilt.
https://www.readytrain.com/model-center/parts/index.html

Thanks, M-636!  I sent him a message about the steps.