Locomotive Conversation(creation)

[dcushing]

Ok, assuming I have very limited knowledge (not really much of an assumption actually) would it be much of a job to convert the Dash 9 into an AC4400cw and the SD70mac in an older SD70m? The AC4400 is basically a Dash 9 with AC traction motors, necessitating the larger air conditioning unit on the left side and I believe the SD70m differs from the mac only by the different traction motors and maybe some flared radiators. There may also be differences in headlight placement and other smaller details. I realize that new physics would have to be developed for both locomotives but that shouldn’t be and impossibility. Both the Union Pacific and the Southern Pacific had large quantities of these and the AC4400cw is/was a frequent visitor to both Sherman Hill and Donner Pass, and while not as common, the SD70m’s did also make appearances. I believe both locomotives would make welcome additions to Railworks.

Duncan

[Hawk]

I think the Rollingstock Design forum is a better place for this.

[Chacal]

Without access to the source shape files from the designer of the engines, the most you can do is add children objects to an existing engine.
You can't change or remove existing objects. So you can add a headlight sometimes, but not move or remove an existing headlight.

Physics are easy to change by redacting the blueprints.

[SMMDigital]

Hmmm. I would think that of you wanted an SD70M with flared radiators, you could add them to the SD75 as child objects. The positioning would be tricky, but it could be done. The biggest problem I see is that if you convert a locomotive and you are not able to replicate every detail of the conversion, the nit-vultures are going to tear you apart. Unless the starting model is very close to the ending model to begin with (exm SD50 to SD60), I wouldn't even bother.

[dcushing]

Gentlemen, I thank you for your replies. When I originally posted this over on the main forum I had hoped that someone from the mother ship (RSC) would read it and get the idea themselves. I had hoped that, along with the e-mail I sent to tech support, this would generate a little interest and might be an easy way to get a couple of (in my mind) needed locomotives. Oh well.

Duncan

[Hawk]

When I originally posted this over on the main forum I had hoped that someone from the mother ship (RSC) would read it and get the idea themselves.

Duncan

That's not going to happen. You're far better of emailing them, which is generally a waste of time.