The Athearn Genesis Auto Max is a beautiful-looking reproduction of the real thing. Unfortunately, out of the box there were problems to be solved.
The articulated truck rubbed against the screws on the connector which greatly reduced its ability to run smoothly. Applying a 5/16th in nylon mini-washer to the area solved the problem.
Further, if you have to run the model on 18-22 inch curved track you must replace the connector underneath the center bogey. This works well enough, but in doing this the rubber diaphragm does not fit correctly and looks very unrealistic.
The detail and paint on the model are first-rate and look great and will draw attention to itself on the rails.
When compared to the Atlas Articulated Auto-carrier, the Auto-Max looks as good or better, but requires problem solving out of the box–which considering the MSRP should not be something the modeler should have to spend time doing.
Athearn has supplied us with a great looking model. Too bad it falls short in its ability to run great right out of the box.
Appearance: A
Mechanics: C
Value: B-
