I picked up a Gilbert 31039 Missouri Pacific F-unit today. This engine is just bizzare - Varney shell with the usual AF mods - but also with three holes drilled in each side to allow the use of a Marx drive in it, the same as in some of the engines that used the Marx type shell.
I found one resource online showing a picture of this engine - and that one has the same holes in it, so apparently that's how they made these. The holes were added post-painting.
Can anyone explain just how or why this one came about? I mean, I'm sure they just cobbed this up with what was on hand, but does it exist without the holes? Why decorate these shells and add that extra step of labor over using Marx shells?
Country: USA ~
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The Mo Pac F3 was made in 1963, the final year that American Flyer (Gilbert) produced HO.
+99.9% of the 31039s are found with the holes drilled out on Gilbert Pikemaster drives. There is at least one Mo Pac F3 on a Varney drive without holes. It is believe to be a factory prototype.
As to why, has been a source of conjecture among Gilbert HO collectors for years.
Country: USA ~
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Member Since: August 09 2010 ~
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Posted - January 28 2012 : 8:48:27 PM
USA ~
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