The GM&O had 31 GP30s numbered 500-530, delivered in 1962 and 1963. They were delivered with AAR Type B trucks from trade-in Alco locomotives. The Bachmann model is numbered 529. It has the prototype’s AAR Type B trucks. Other details do not match the prototype: the GM&O locos did not have dynamic brakes, although the Bachmann body retains this detail. A flaw in the original body tooling made the radiator fan panel at the rear of the body too long, but this is not very noticeable. The horns provided with the model match those on early GP30s, but not the GM&O prototype. This detail can easily be replaced.
The paint on Bachmann models has been steadily improving in recent years, and the paint on the GM&O unit resembles the prototype, including builder plates on the sill, and is comparable to other products imported from China by other firms. The Bachmann body now has separately applied metal grab irons and thin, flexible plastic handrails.
The frame is now in one piece, and a fully enclosed motor now drives all four axles via flywheels. The printed circuit board includes LEDs, and there is an 8-pin socket for DCC plugs. Bachmann product descriptions do not make this clear — this is a valuable feature in the product that should actually be emphasized more clearly.
Bachmann is to be congratulated for steadily upgrading its product line, which is cost-effective for many modelers.
MSRP: $79.00
