Disassembling your new Athearn Genesis SD70MAC model locomotive for upgrades or maintenance can seem daunting at first. Many model railroaders, especially those new to the hobby or unfamiliar with Genesis series trucks, approach this task with understandable caution. This guide aims to clarify the process of removing the shell from your SD70MAC and offer insights into maintaining its precision Genesis Trucks, ensuring your model runs smoothly for years to come.
Safely Removing the SD70MAC Shell
The initial concern for many owners, as highlighted by a fellow modeler in Springfield, is how to detach the locomotive shell without damaging the intricate details of their prized SD70MAC. The manufacturer’s literature often mentions squeezing the long hood base near the cooling fans. While this is partially correct, a more precise method ensures a safer and easier removal process.
The key is to locate the shell clips positioned on the underside of the locomotive frame. By using a flashlight and peering through the trucks – specifically, looking through the front of the rear truck and the rear of the front truck – you can identify where these clips protrude slightly. A fine, flat-head screwdriver, almost needle-like in size, is the ideal tool to gently release these clips.
Work methodically, addressing one side at a time. Carefully insert the screwdriver to disengage the clips on one side, and then repeat the process on the opposite side. Exercise caution around the delicate grab irons at the front of the locomotive. Additionally, be mindful of the handrails, which may be attached to the cab. If they are not glued, they should detach with a gentle outward pull.
Important Note: When lifting the shell, proceed slowly and deliberately. It’s crucial to remember the wiring connecting the lights mounted on the shell to the chassis. In the NS version, there are typically eight wires in total. The ditch light wires, in particular, run alongside the power pickups towards the center. Athearn’s design thoughtfully incorporates grooves for these power pickups, keeping them neatly out of the way.
Genesis Truck Maintenance and Derailment Solutions
Beyond shell removal, another critical aspect of SD70MAC ownership, particularly concerning its Genesis trucks, is ensuring smooth and reliable operation. The original modeler also shared valuable experiences regarding derailment and truck noise, issues that can affect any model locomotive, including those with advanced Genesis trucks.
Addressing Derailment:
The experience with Athearn six-axle locomotives struggling with sloppy turnouts is a common one in model railroading. The issue arises when the points of certain turnouts, like some Atlas models, sit slightly lower than the stock rail. This height difference can cause the locomotive wheels to ride up the point, acting as a ramp and leading to a split switch and derailment.
Testing your locomotive frame alone, without the shell, can be an effective diagnostic step to identify such derailment issues. This allows you to observe how the trucks interact with the track and turnouts without the added complexity of the shell and body.
Resolving Genesis Truck Noise:
A clicking noise emanating from the front Genesis truck was another issue encountered. To address this, a thorough examination of the truck components is necessary. Disassembling the entire truck down to the gears revealed a burr on the worm gear as the culprit.
A small amount of filing to remove the burr, combined with the application of grease instead of the original thin oil, significantly improved the truck’s performance and eliminated the clicking noise. Proper lubrication and addressing minor imperfections are essential for maintaining the smooth operation of Genesis trucks.
Enhancing Realism with Decoder Installation
Finally, the desire to install a decoder to activate the ditch lights as intended underscores the pursuit of realism in model railroading. Adding a decoder is a popular upgrade that unlocks the full potential of features like ditch lights, enhancing the visual appeal and operational authenticity of your SD70MAC.
By understanding shell removal techniques and paying attention to Genesis truck maintenance, you can ensure your Athearn Genesis SD70MAC not only looks stunning but also performs flawlessly on your model railroad. Regular maintenance and careful attention to detail will reward you with years of reliable operation and enjoyment from your Genesis series locomotive.
