Dimensions of a Z-scale GP mechanism?

[randgust]

Got a different request, maybe you guys can help.

I have somebody trying to do a narrow-gauge N Whitcomb 65-tonner off of one of my kits.   I 'think' a Z-scale GP7 or GP35 or similar mechanism will actually fit in the N body, but I don't have one and have no idea where to find dimensions.

I need:

Center-to-center truck wheelbase in inches or N scale feet
End axle to end axle dimensions (total wheelbase)
Truck wheelbase (9' in Z works out to.... in N..?)

Then the cast chassis width, length and height to see if it will clear inside the shell.   

I really think it will work but that's a pretty expensive guess.

[tom mann]

I can get these for you when I get home if no one gets to you sooner.

[narrowminded]

9' in Z works out to 6.545'  (78.545") in N scale.  That will be an actual dimension on the truck of .4909".  Round to heart's content.

[tom mann]

Do you want to know the AZL or MT geep dimensions?

[randgust]

I think the AZL is the lower frame height from what I can tell

[Catt]

AZL is also narrower than the MTL chassis.

[Chris333]

I have an AZL GP7... there is plenty of room.



The frame is .266" wide, but the motor is wider at .313". Frame is 2.452" long. From rail head to top of frame is .720". .549" at the ends. Pretty sure it had lights on the board that went to the ends, but I cut them off.

Never had a MTL version.

[Chris333]

Truck centers are 1.685". Truck WB is .494". Outside wheel centers are 2.177".

The AZL model looks a million times better, but for a chassis I think the MTL would be smoother, and a little cheaper.

[peteski]

Truck centers are 1.685". Truck WB is .494". Outside wheel centers are 2.177".

The AZL model looks a million times better, but for a chassis I think the MTL would be smoother, and a little cheaper.

AZL has a quality coreless motor - nice!  Does MTL version also use a coreless motor?

[Chris333]

AZL has a quality coreless motor - nice!  Does MTL version also use a coreless motor?

Yep. Same sized 0816 Maxon with ceramic shaft.  https://www.tcsdcc.com/Customer_Content/Installation_Pictures/Z_Scale/MTL/GP-35/MTL_GP-35.html

[mmagliaro]

That is an 8mm Faulhaber in your picture, Chris.  I thought they did use 8mm motors in these, but whether they are Maxon or Faulhaber, I don't know.  Did you change the motor?

[Chris333]

oops  yes 8mm not 10mm. I changed my post. 

AZL and MTL both make Z scale geeps. The AZL GP7 uses Faulhaber and MTL GP9 uses Maxon. DKS used to have an online comparison between the 2 models. The chassis are similar, but the bodies are not. The AZL is to scale, the MTL is a very wide body.
http://www.zscalemonster.com/azl/gp7/gp7.htm
http://www.blwnscale.com/mt-z-gp9.htm
The MTL GPs are sold out most places so look on e-bay for them.

The AZL model uses a etched brass door section right where the motor is to get a skinny hood. MTL is all plastic. Think I remember Joe saying brass wouldn't stick to plastic and I remember a DKS post about how bumble bees can't fly.

[Missaberoad]

DKS used to have an online comparison between the 2 models.

https://web.archive.org/web/20121211085759/http://jamesriverbranch.net/review_1.htm

[ztrack]

Oh I remember that Joe comment really well. If you can't beat the competition on quality and accuracy, try to imply the products will fall apart. And for the record, we are still waiting for the sides to fall off....

Any ways, the first run of AZL GP7s uses the Fualhauber motors. If you are looking for these motors specifically, then purchase the PRR, UP, Nickel Plate and C&O versions. These motors are quite expensive today, so these locos are a deal.

All the other road names AZL offers has a newer 7.5mm proprietary motor. They work very well in my opinion. Also, the PCB in the newer models is AZL standardized PCB. Digitrax and TCS offer drop in decoders for these PCBs if you want to go Digital.

You can see the range of GP7 and GP9 AZL offers here:

http://www.azldirect.com/azl-locomotives/gp7

I know you are only interested in the chassis, but it is interesting to note all the different detail configurations AZL offers on this line.

Rob

[peteski]

https://web.archive.org/web/20121211085759/http://jamesriverbranch.net/review_1.htm

Good to see DKS' website (and all the wonderful models featured there) still accessible in the archive.