True Line Trains MP36PH-3C review

 The True Line Trains MPI MPXpress models in HO scale were first shipped in late 2011 with the GO Transit MP40PH-3C models. TLT has produced or have announced models representing all systems which operate this prototype. They feature prototype-specific detail, and the amount of detail on these units are comparable to Rapido Trains models. Today, I will review a model which was part of the last shipment of these; this particular shipment from early 2014 included WCX, Metra, MBTA, and of course, the UTA (photos shown)

Please note that the model does not come with instructions; this is a result of True Line's decision to conserve paper. Downloadable instructions are here. If you have a sound-equipped loco or is planning on getting one, the CV charts are located on the website and the list of functions specific to the MP36 is here.

Prototype Information:

The MotivePower Industries (MPI, a division of Wabtec) MPXpress line of commuter locomotives were first launched with an order from Chicago's METRA, and since then several other commuter operators have ordered this locomotive with GO Transit being the largest operator, with 67 MP40PH-3Cs numbered 600-666.

Its styling is based upon the EMD F59PHI, introduced in 1994. Although all variants in the MPXpress line have similar designs, almost all of its internal components can be modified to suit the customer's needs and/or to cut down on costs. There are three major variants; the first is the MP36PH-3S, featuring a 3600hp MPI 16-645F3B-T2 engine and electrical power to the train (HEP) delivered via a static inverter driven by the prime mover. The most popular version of the line is the MP36PH-3C, which has the same components as the -3S, except this one has a separate HEP engine supplying power to the train. The final variant is the MP40PH-3C, which is similar to the MP36PH-3C but it has a 4000hp EMD 16-710G3B-T2 engine instead of the 3600hp 645F3B engine.

Model Details:

As mentioned before, this model is extremely well-detailed. The UTA MP36PH-3C model, first of all, has a (lit) run number board placed between the ditch lights (this detail is only specific to some agencies). The model also includes hard-to-see details, such as the lift rings on the roof of the locomotive. There are also see-through radiator, HEP, and dynamic brake fans on the roof. The radiator section is arranged in the MP36PH-specific style (3 small fans; the MP40 has 2 large fans).

The cab interior is super-detailed, complete with painted seats and controls; as a bonus, the cab door even opens (it is spring-loaded.)

As with other model locomotives, there are MU-hoses, builder's plates moulded onto the bottom front sides of the unit, and coupler cut bars.

Operation:

I have gotten the version that has DCC/ESU LokSound equipped from the factory, and it is currently being run on a DC layout powered by an Athearn 16V DC powerpack. The following voltage values are given in percentages of 16V.

This locomotive has brightly lit LED headlights, ditch lights, reverse markers, and number boards. (see photo at top) The ditch lights flash however due to this locomotive running off a DC powerpack, I cannot demonstrate this.

The sounds turn on at 45% power, and the locomotive will begin to move at around 60% power. The prime mover sounds will notch up or down in response to the speed of the locomotive. The decoder is speed-sensitive in a way that it will quickly "ramp-up" in response to a spike in the throttle, and will automatically turn on the dynamic brake if it detects a sudden drop in the throttle. I found this quite interesting. There are other sound effects such as bell, horn, and even the CAT HEP engine, but one again, I cannot demonstrate these features using a DC powerpack.

Drive performance is also superb, and can be compared to the KATO HO F40PHs; it will start off and change speed according to throttle settings very smoothly. Despite its weight (a bit lower than a KATO F40PH) it is quite powerful; it can pull all 12 of my passenger cars (1/3 of them are NOT smooth-rollers) like they weren't even there.

Maintenance:

This model is maintained in a manner similar to my KATO F40PHs; the shell removes exactly the same way (loosen the tabs holding the shell to the frame and then wiggling the shell off) and cleaning gunk off the wheels can be done in a similar way, too.

Conclusions:

My personal rating of the True Line Trains MP36PH-3C model is a solid 10/10 (the first of my model locomotives to get this rating.) It is quite powerful, the sounds are perfect, and the detail is superb (not to mention, nothing broke off)

Comment: Despite it being a sound unit, this model is not sensitive to track conditions on my (now aging) Bachmann track.