The SD45T-2 has been the Holy Grail for Espee modelers for many years. There has not been a decent plastic representation. Now, with the release of Athearn's model, the entire fleet of late 6-axle power can be represented in HO scale. Also, with the integration of the Southern Pacific into the Union Pacific empire, and the subsequent retirement of these beasts, they have survived into the 21st century with other railroads and lessors.

Donnell Wells has begun the process of detailing a model to represent a specific prototype, something that is important when modeling any SP locomotive.

Donnell has also created a Yahoo group for this endeavor: SD45T-2@Yahoogroups.com. All of the information contained in this series, as well as informative discussions, are in the group. If you have seen his models on the Trainorders discussion board, it is clear that he is an extremely competent modeler.

Below is a list of resources that will be helpful:

"Build an SD45T-2," Model Railroader Magazine, July 1972. (Pictures and drawings)

"SD45T-2 Tunnel Motor," Diesel Era Magazine, May/June 1991. (Comprehensive article)

SP/SSW SD45T-2 Roster as-delivered, and detail guide (Opens in a new browser window). Thanks to Edwin C. Cooper, Harry Wong, and Ralph Back for compiling the information.

SP SD45T-2 Info Page (Richard Percy).

SSW SD45T-2 Info Page (Richard Percy).

SP SD45T-2R Info Page (Richard Percy).

SP and SSW SD45T-2 and Rebuilt Units (John Barnhill).

SP/SSW SD45T-2 (John Mosbarger).

Since this series started, Details West has released a detail kit for the model. The part number is DS-339 and the MSRP is $20.95. Parts included in the kit are as follows:

• PL-140 Snowplow (2)
  
• MU Hoses (2)
  
• Sander Bracket Sets (2)
  
• Trainline Hoses (2)
  
• Step Lights (2)
  
• Various air tank details, piping, moisture ejector valves, etc.
  
• Fuel Tank Brackets (2)
  
• Cab Armrests (2)
  
• Fuel Tank Drain Bar (1)
  
• Drain Pipe Set (1)
  
• Air Filter Detail (1)
  
• Speed Recorder (1)
  
• Truck Air Line Pipes (2)
• Model photo instructions

Let's get to work!