My ESMC/MTL EL Auto Rack is on the way...

[Dave V]

Been a lot of snow and ice here so mail was behind...  Hope to get mine today!

[wm3798]

I better dust off my article about converting old MiniTrix plastic autos to something more suitable for rack loads...



Lee

[bbussey]

Hopefully the project will help light the lamp over there, and allow some more spectacular projects.  Nice job pushing it through, Bryan.

The next one already has been green-light'd in Oregon, but we have to finalize some of the details in January during the Springfield show.  This one was a good learning experience, so both companies now know what potholes to avoid.  I'm assuming it also will be a make-to-order item.  I don't know what the tentative release date would be, but I would guess a little earlier than this year since there would be no reason to wait until the NSE Convention to announce.

Currently, I see only the open-frame auto racks as an opportunity for MTL/ESM collaboration projects.  If anyone can think of additional MTL models where ESM components could be used to enhance or augment, I'm open to suggestions.  As with the auto racks, the MTL model would have to be close to prototype at the start.
 

[Bob Bufkin]

I just received mine but there are no instructions on how to attach the panels.  Seem like a straightword easy job.  What type of glue did you use to attach the panelsl?

[Robbman]

Pretty cool.  First pics I've seen of the finished product.  The ESM allocation is not due to arrive until Tuesday after next.  I think UPS is walking it across the continent.  Grrr.

Maybe I should check the pup they left on my lot a week ago... I've called them three times about it.

[Robbman]

Currently, I see only the open-frame auto racks as an opportunity for MTL/ESM collaboration projects.  If anyone can think of additional MTL models where ESM components could be used to enhance or augment, I'm open to suggestions.  As with the auto racks, the MTL model would have to be close to prototype at the start.

The NWHS has some pics of a re-racked NW on a TTX flush deck (don't know manufacturer... never dug that up)somewhere... I'll have to find them and get you copies... hint hint.

[bbussey]

I just received mine but there are no instructions on how to attach the panels.  Seem like a straightword easy job.  What type of glue did you use to attach the panelsl?

The installation instructions are printed on the inside of the box insert.

[Ed Kapuscinski]

They're not super obvious though. At first I had assumed they were the usual stuff that MTL prints on that sheet.

[Bob Bufkin]

Agree with Ed on this.  I did find them and it was what I was going to do in the first place.

[bbussey]

The next one will state on the outside of the insert that the installation instructions are on the inside of the insert.

The ESM allocation has arrived.  They appear to be the only ones remaining for sale, so they won't be around long.

[peteski]

The next one will state on the outside of the insert that the installation instructions are on the inside of the insert.

Do you think that this will really going to help?  Human beings are really good at ignoring things (especially if they are used to knowing what type of things are written on the bottom of the inserts of MT cars).

I think for people to really notice, you would have to put a small day-glow yellow sticker on the top of the box, directing them to where the instructions are located.  Or insert similarly attention-getting piece of paper under the top cover, between the cover and the plastic protector piece.

[lock4244]

As usual, great stuff.

I had to attach the anti-vandal panels, but there were nice clear instructions on the attached sheet in the car.

It's such a shame they're so custom per logo cutout, because having these available for addition to other cars would be awesome.

Anyway, this thread is useless without pics, I know... so here they are.



Now I just need some first gen Chevy Astro Vans or GMC Safaris to fill it up.

Looks great... and the choice for the first road couldn't have been better.

[rswinnerton]

Conrail Bi-level rack in Stockton, CA. These got vandal screens too, but I don't have a photo of one.


And a tri-level with screens