Athearn Genesis Just Announced Three SP GP9E's Due in Late 2024

Hello friends,

Much of the time, when we hear about a manufacturers upcoming release of product, getting excited does not seem to happen the way it used to. Its my own fault, I seem to model a narrow window of time and there has not been a lot of product available for that period in the recent past.  Add that fact to Arizona Southern being a niche style project and one can see that our interests are far from what most consider main stream. Enter Athearn Genesis who just advertised the forthcoming release of more of their wonderful SP GP9 models with DCC and Tsunami 2 Sound; that got my full attention. I already have a few of these from earlier runs, but one version that is always welcome are those that feature the long hood paper air filter box. SP GP9E 3777 features this detail, not to mention dual snow plows, so of course it just had to be pre-ordered; let the waiting begin.

This is the factory drawing of said locomotive GP9E 3777, just to help any of those unfamiliar with SP's GRIP Program see what it is that I've touched upon. The other two versions that they're offering are another Phase II high short hood model and a low nose Phase III version, of which we already have each style. Seems the venerable GP9's are regulars on the branchline that connects AZSO with the SP; they are reliable and not too hard on the rails.

Well, that's about all I have for now. Just trying to keep folks posted about what's going on in the world of the Arizona Southern and its connections. Thanks for reading this far, drop us a note if the mood strikes you.

Best wishes,

John Huey

A Few More Goodies Find A New Home.

 Greetings From Arizona Southern Country,

I'm just dropping a quick message to keep in touch.  Seems too much time has passed and very little conversation has been happening. Other than the monsoons, not much to report really. We did acquire a few things of interests though and following are a few pics snapped during the unboxings.

This first image is of an Atlas 50' Post War boxcar, decorated for the mid 1970's forward. A nice car to be sure and one that was on backorder for ages; glad it finally arrived.

The next image is of the Digby's Golden Arrow trailer from Athearn; they did a nice job on this one. Even including the nose reefer painted to match.

Lastly is a Rapido brand Navajo trailer, very nice as well and the graphics are spot on too. You can tell this trailer dates from the late 1960's as the spare is mounted under the floor and its still in place. A very welcome trailer to the fleet.

Well, thanks for reading and the visit, we hope you are well and that the enjoyment of our hobby is still a happy part of your life. See you next time; write back if the mood strikes.

Best wishes,

John Huey

CEO AZSO RR

SP PC&F B-100-40 Box Car On Roster.

 

Just ordered one of the Rapido SP B-100-40 box cars that they made a couple of years back.  Not sure why I passed them by except that they are only within my railroads era for about a year or less. Still, a very nice looking car and I just had to get one or forever kick myself; I already do enough of that. Besides, it gives one an excuse to have the odd occasional "clean" car running about.

  

Good looking car, I do miss the 'For Fragile Freight' bit, but trying to be a little prototypical has its price to pay. From what I remember, the car seems to mimic the real thing fairly well; good enough for these old eyes least ways. I'm pleased with the purchase.

Well, that is about it for this rainy night in Old California, things are starting to flood and I have a water incursion to deal with thanks to the way things work in my world. Then again, its like the real thing having issues with the monsoons that befall this region every few years.

Best wishes, write if the mood strikes you,

John Huey

CEO Arizona Southern RR

Have a Blessed 2023!

  We here at the Arizona Southern would like to take a moment and wish all of you and your loved ones a most happy and prosperous new year.  I mean we can still dream right?

Enjoy Your Trains,

John Huey