Bachmann E7 -- I

I got my Bachmann E7 via yesterday's UPS and have given it a first once-over. I haven't had the shell off yet -- this is the DC, DCC-ready version. I will need to see what needs to be done to convert to DCC and add separate control for Mars and numberboard lights -- the sound version apparently has these controlled via separate functions. Here's an overall look:

The prototype UP 989 was built in 1948 and initially numbered 989J but almost immediately renumbered 989. Bachmann seems to have been aware of differences among UP E7s in pilot detail -- some had a slotted pilot, but 989 had a solid pilot like the model.

I'm not sure if we know everything yet about UP diesel wings -- according to Utah Rails, the F3As, E7As, FA-1s and PA-1s received after WWII all had 3-piece metal winged medallions without the word "Railroad" in the medallion. The metal medallions were brushed stainless steel.

However, there were also variations in shape: those on Alcos and turbines had straight wings, while those on the postwar EMD cab units had wings curved slightly upward. However, it appears that after later visits to the paint shop, the two versions weren't consistently applied.

The Bachmann model has straight wings. Whether prototype E7 units ever got straight wings isn't clear. Here's a closeup of the nose:

This also shows both headlights and the number boards lit. On DC, all are lit and stay lit whether the loco runs forward or reverse. I will need to investigate how they can be controlled with an aftermarket decoder and report on it in a later post. A problem for UP modelers is that the UP put train numbers in the number boards, not the loco number. EMD did put loco numbers in the number boards for builder photos. In addition, UP locos running on the Santa Fe between Riverside and Daggett, CA had loco numbers in the number boards for use with Santa Fe dispatchers and operators.

A new feature for Bachmann is separate handrails on all parts of the body. These are metal, fine, and look quite good.

There is a non-operating diaphragm on the rear:

The truck sideframes are the weakest feature, especially when viewed up close:

UP didn't paint trucks silver until 1956. A coat of UP gray on these will probably help matters. Here is the loco coupled to a Stewart Kato FB:

And a Proto Erie built B:

The E7's overall height seems slightly shorter than either of the B units. The photos of the coupled units are taken on a 30-inch radius. The yellows don't exactly match, but this isn't unusual on the prototype: