Re: Patco's kits - for modifying MDC HOn3 2-8-0s

I agree with everyone who commented on the difficulties involved, and the replacement motors and gears needed to try to get one of the MDC engines to perform well. To sort of pile on the criticism, the size of the model is another factor. While the outside frame engine is close in size to other Baldwin outside frame prototypes, like D&RGW 375, the inside frame engine is far too large for the engines its supposed to represent. If all you have on the layout are MDC engines, you are OK. Its when you add a brass engine, like a Westside C-16, you see how out of proportion the MDC engine is.
When MDC made these models, they produced only what they absolutely needed. New frames, drivers and cylinders, plus the tenders. The rest of the stuff was pilfered from their standard gauge models, including the 5' diameter boiler. There was a soft metal kit to convert an inside frame MDC to an almost C-17. But.... replacing the motor, gears, and superstructure to get an almost right engine, most with the mentioned brass tires, is it really worth it?
All that said, I have seen some very nice MDC engines. George Pierson has several locomotives built around MDC kits, and they are works of art that run like swiss watches. Its no accident, George is a very talented builder, and put quite a bit of effort into making them what they are. So it can be done. But for a novice looking for an engine project, I think you are better off starting with a Westside engine. Strong square frames. good drivers, and decent fidelity to scale, all will make for a better model.

brian b