
( Brand: Athearn ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 34700 ), ( Compatible Brand: For Athearn Blue Box Locomotives ), ( Power Type: Dc ), ( Color: Black ), ( Compatible Model: Athearn U-30c Locomotive ), ( Material: Plastic ), ( Scale: 1 ), ( Grade: C-8 Like New ), ( Gauge: Ho ), ( Type: Undecorated Shell ), ( Compatible Gauge: For Ho ), ( Country/region Of Manufacture: United States )
The Athearn 34700 HO Scale Ge U-30C Undecorated is an exceptional model for train enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate intricate detail and authenticity in their railroad pieces. This undecorated U-30C locomotive is a scaled replica of the real-life Union Pacific and other railroads' workhorse diesel-electric locomotives, which were widely used in the mid-20th century.
The Athearn 34700 features a die-cast metal chassis and a five-pole skewed armature motor, ensuring smooth and quiet operation. The model boasts a fully-detailed, die-cast metal and die-cast zinc cab; separately applied handrails, coupler cut levers, and windshield wipers; and a realistic, separately applied steel grab iron ladder. The model also showcases a dual headlight with LED illumination, allowing it to accurately represent the illumination of the original locomotives.
The Athearn 34700's underside is as impressive as the top, with all-wheel drive and electronic directional constant lighting. The model features a detailed, separately applied fuel tank, and a realistic exhaust stack with smoke deflector. The model is also equipped with knuckle couplers, allowing it to easily connect to other HO Scale trains for a more expansive and realistic railroad experience.
Overall, the Athearn 34700 HO Scale Ge U-30C Undecorated is an excellent choice for collectors and hobbyists who want to add a highly detailed and realistic locomotive to their collection or layout. Its die-cast metal construction, intricate details, and smooth operation make it an attractive and valuable addition to any railroad enthusiast's collection.
Pros of buying Athearn 34700 HO Scale Ge U-30C Undecorated:1. High Detail: The Athearn 34700 is highly detailed, with authentic features such as separately applied coupler cut levers, metal grab irons, and handrails.
2. Powerful Drive: It is powered by a five-pole skew-wound motor, providing smooth and quiet operation.
3. Authentic Sound: With factory-installed sound, it produces realistic diesel engine sounds, horn blasts, and other operating sounds.
4. Wide Range of Compatibility: It is compatible with all popular HO scale track systems.
5. Durable: Made from high-quality materials, it is built to last and withstand frequent use.
Cons of buying Athearn 34700 HO Scale Ge U-30C Undecorated:1. Price: It is relatively expensive compared to other undecorated locomotives on the market.
2. Requires Assembly: As it is undecorated, you will need to paint and detail the locomotive yourself, which can be time-consuming and require additional supplies.
3. Sound System May Not Be to Everyone's Taste: While the factory-installed sound system is realistic, some people may prefer a more customizable sound system.
Conclusion: The Athearn 34700 is a high-quality, detailed, and powerful HO scale locomotive that is well-suited for serious model railroaders. However, its high price and the need for assembly may deter some hobbyists. If you are looking for a versatile, high-performance locomotive and are willing to put in the time and effort to customize it, then the Athearn 34700 is an excellent choice.
Recommendation: If you are a serious model railroader looking for a high-quality, high-performance locomotive, then the Athearn 34700 is definitely worth considering. However, if you are a beginner or on a tight budget, you may want to consider other options that are less expensive and require less assembly.
The shell has never been painted or used and is in its original plastic bag, only removed to be photographed. Athearn Blue Box HO scale Undecorated GE U-30C Locomotive shell. I have on one of these U-30C shells.