Fixing a Kusan Model Trains (KMT) Rare H.O. Passenger Set

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 5 ก.ย. 2024
  • Donated to the Channel Super Rare KMT H.O. Train set. Has engineering roots back to the early 40's
    Links to KMT Info:
    www.tcawestern....
    www.tcawestern....
    #kmttrains
    #classicmodeltrains
    E-mail me at: classicmodeltrains@aol.com
    Find me on Facebook: www.facebook.c...
    Find me on eBay: www.ebay.com/u...
    Mailing Address: Classic Model Trains
    1507 Old Hardin Road
    Billings, Mt. 59101
    @classicmodeltrains
    My second channel mentioned link below.
    @RonsClassicRVs

ความคิดเห็น • 298

  • @franktino6676
    @franktino6676 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +13

    After Kusan acquired the inventories and production tools of Auburn Model Trains, the equipment was moved from Indiana to a new plant in Franklin, Tennessee, which had been especially prepared for train production. 1955 was spent on re-tooling efforts, and the development of new manufacturing processes. Design engineer George Dunbar was tasked with coming up with ideas for new items that could be mass produced at low cost that would allow Kusan to compete with the likes of Lionel and Gilbert American Flyer. Kusan's business plan to do so had three components. First they would put out a full line of 20 trains, including a deluxe 'O' gauge ¼ inch to the foot scale, also a slightly smaller medium priced "K" line that could run on 'O' gauge track, and a ⅛ inch to the foot HO gauge hobbyist train. Second, they would provide products of high quality at a competitive price. And third, they would offer brand new products, never manufactured by other brands.

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  10 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      Yup. I read all this on the website I mentioned. I left it out of the video to keep the video moving.

    • @2010calvert
      @2010calvert 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      My great grandpa and grandpa worked with Jack Farris on this. I still have one of the first box cars on a shelf

    • @kennethmorgan3557
      @kennethmorgan3557 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      American Model Trains introduced these cars in 1952. They transitioned to Kusan/KMT in 1954/55. AMT had 2 bulbs which sat in the conical castings you can see in this video. Don't know why Kusan changed it. The couplers look like the original AMT ones, but AMT later sold the cars with operating couplers like they put on their later O gauge cars. Again, not sure why Kusan used the non-operating couplers unless they didn't get the equipment to make them, or they were too labor intensive. They did use the O gauge ones, as did Andy Kriswalus. AMT called their operating couplers liftamatic. They were manual, but they also sold a track fixture to open them. It raised a ramp that pushed up on the release piece on the bottom of the coupler, at least in O gauge. Don't know if that was available in HO, but the couplers were just smaller versions of the O gauge ones and work the same way.

  • @F40M07
    @F40M07 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    For the 1950’s, this is INSANE!!!!

  • @ArcadiaJunctionHobbies
    @ArcadiaJunctionHobbies 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +20

    That must have been some set to own back in the day. Still impressive in 2023. Great video thanks.

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

      The kids that would of had this didnt live on my end of town that's for sure ;-)

    • @ArcadiaJunctionHobbies
      @ArcadiaJunctionHobbies 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +7

      haha I hear ya! @@classicmodeltrains

  • @rickestabrook4987
    @rickestabrook4987 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +14

    What a find. What a friend! It's now in excellent hands for another 70 years of performance. Sorry you're not as high on SF Super Chiefs - for my money, there's a reason they're so popular: GORGEOUS livery. Well done making sure this treasure keeps rolling.

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

      Thanks. I have nothing against SF Super Chiefs, I just have so many (accidentally of course). They (SF) must have licensed their stuff to everybody. Thats what comes in so many sets. So many other very colorful liveries out there. I just wished I had more of them here :-)

    • @michaelquinones-lx6ks
      @michaelquinones-lx6ks 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@classicmodeltrains That set was manufactured in a time when ' MADE IN U.S.A.' really mattered we took pride in what we made back in the day. unlike the 'MADE IN CHINA' crap that falls apart after two weeks. Or, blows up and catch on fire without warning..

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@michaelquinones-lx6ks I agree with you Sir!

  • @normfredriksen1381
    @normfredriksen1381 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +10

    Wow. The designers of the drive train really did deserve your compliments.
    Why can't others get it right? 😊

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

      I agree with you Norm!!

    • @michigandon
      @michigandon 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Yes, as soon as I saw "Eight Wheel Drive" on the box, I knew this one was well worth reviving.

  • @rickdee67
    @rickdee67 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    Man thats cool! 56 years old and I’ve never heard of KMT.

    • @avlisk
      @avlisk 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      I'm 72 and never heard of them. I suppose once we found Athearn, we had no need to look elsewhere. That drive system must have been out of our price range anyway, as Hi-F drive was more in line with what we could afford.

    • @franktino6676
      @franktino6676 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      72 years of age, first Lionel set in '55, and KMT was marketed in my region of the North East USA in the '50s and early 60s.Knew them well.

    • @avlisk
      @avlisk 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I grew up outside of Boston and Eric Fuchs was our local hobby shop. But I missed KMT entirely! @@franktino6676

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Ive never heard of them either till this set landed in my hands.

  • @jeffstarcher7960
    @jeffstarcher7960 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    Last night I went down some rabbit holes and ended up on your channel… I am now a subscriber and am enamored at your videos. I am 59 but scared to take these little engineered marvels apart because of fear of not getting them out back together correctly. I do love these older trains. This was another great video, thank you for putting these videos together!

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

      I'm glad the rabbit hole delivered you to this video Jeff! Thanks for another Sub!!

  • @XBOXShawn12thman
    @XBOXShawn12thman 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I'm 53 years old .... I've never seen that before, Thanx Fur Sharrin That!!!!

  • @TheBrandon40500
    @TheBrandon40500 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    What a neat find! And I agree the finish on those passenger cars looks fantastic.

  • @darrellnorton2208
    @darrellnorton2208 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Love those coach roof's and the build quality of that Santa fe looks great. Can't beat some of that old school engineering 👍

  • @RayBoebel
    @RayBoebel 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    I wish they still made the drive trains like that today....WOW!! No plastic casings holding the gears in place...all metal!!! Very cool!

  • @johnbanicki7232
    @johnbanicki7232 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    That set looks fantastic! Nothing like using real aluminum to make aluminum passenger cars. Thanks for sharing.

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Thanks and yes! What a interesting concept to use shiny aluminum to simulate shiny cars. Engineers were smart back in the day :-)

  • @heliogiugliano5648
    @heliogiugliano5648 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    Hello Rom. This KMT set is really in excellent condition. It was a great find. Great video. Congratulations.

  • @TomzTrainzandAccessories
    @TomzTrainzandAccessories 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    What a beautiful piece of quality craftsmanship. The engineering that went into this model is incredible. What a beautiful locomotive. It’s a showpiece, including the passenger cars.

  • @franktino6676
    @franktino6676 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    Amazing Find, Ron!! That set is beautiful ✔❗

  • @tracynation2820
    @tracynation2820 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    Very nice. I use to see the KMT ads in model railroad magazines when I was young, and it appeared to me that they were quality drive trains, but until this video, I never knew that they had complete locomotives and model train sets. Super. P.S. Check the axle ends for crud also, clean till shiny, and add just a spot of conductive lubricant. Hello from the Tracy Mountain Railway in Colorado. 💙 T.E.N.

  • @mdeange3
    @mdeange3 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    Congratulations on the KMT acquisition -that's quite a find. I enjoyed the presentation. Thanks for explaining and the fine work in tearing down and restoration. The engine is smooth and purrs like a kitten. The diesel and passengers are gorgeous. - no pitts, haze, or scratches. -the chrome is dazzling. The construction and pieces are sturdy and well-made. I like the style and shape of the observation car's end. The original box is in excellent condition, -it's the topping on the cake that adds value and charm.

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Yup! this one has survived the passage of time very well! Thanks for watching :-)

  • @AEStudt
    @AEStudt 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    That's definitely a great find

  • @johnknippenberg-LandmarkYards
    @johnknippenberg-LandmarkYards 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    Another successful revival! Those passenger cars look sweet, I wonder why they aren't lighted? Edit- I posted too soon. 😉

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      They didnt look lighted to me either. Designed very well!!

  • @georgiahex7387
    @georgiahex7387 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    I love the f series engine. Growing up, in the 70s, an f series was a very rare sight. The Ringling Brothers train was an almost a yearly sighting in my area. That is a great set.

    • @georgiahex7387
      @georgiahex7387 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      A question. Do you have any cast Midgetoy trains from the 60/70s. I have some. They were favorite toys from the dimestore.

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Thanks! Never ever have I seen a circus train in real life :( I have no Midgetoy trains

  • @anthonymunoz6013
    @anthonymunoz6013 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Much jealousy! It's like a non-brass brass engine. Sweet loco. Polish up those streamliners. Love it.

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      A non-brass brass quality loco..... I like the saying!!!!

  • @ertransdiesel1860
    @ertransdiesel1860 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    This is amazing, a real estate of the art in engineering, that would be nice to see this days in model trains, thanks Ron

  • @elsdp-4560
    @elsdp-4560 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Thank you for sharing. Beautiful passenger cars, enjoyed the video.👍

  • @scotabot7826
    @scotabot7826 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    WOW!!! What a nice set!! Great job on the refurb!

  • @David-yo5re
    @David-yo5re 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    That's a beautiful train. You can stop the lights from flickering by wiring in a capacitor in each car. And adding a headlight to the locomotive shouldn't be too difficult. Have fun running that beauty.

  • @caboosech
    @caboosech 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Fantastic video on the restoration and fixing up that 60 year old train set I actually have one of the f unit in my collection down cellar steps in my restoration box

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      I think you might have one of everything down stairs there Dave ;-D

  • @mjamesb66
    @mjamesb66 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    Great video, Ron. One of your 33 % here. I totally enjoy and appreciate the time you took to research this set. As always looking forward to your next video.

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Thank you for your support and kind words. :-)

  • @markwakeley3835
    @markwakeley3835 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    What a beautiful train set. I've never heard of K•M•T but they were certainly engineered very well.

  • @markswiatly9613
    @markswiatly9613 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Nice find. Nice work getting it running so nicely. If you add some capacitors in between the light and power from the trucks you could get rid of that annoying flickering. That's what I did when I added lighting to my cabooses. Works well. Keep up the good work.

  • @pathvalleyrailroad9277
    @pathvalleyrailroad9277 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    TCA is a good source for model train related questions. A little Atlas Conduct-A-Lube might help with blinky light problems.

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Ive been on TCA's site a lot. Good stuff there also

  • @theplumber33
    @theplumber33 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    That is a well-built locomotive!!!💯 I love the shine on the cars. Lol, bouncer duty!!!😂 great info. 🫵👊✌️

  • @richardryan517
    @richardryan517 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    First off, Semper Fi, to the VFW post commander as I was in the Marine Corps also. This was a really interesting video. The Santa Fe always had pretty engines and passenger cars in magazines I saw in the 50's and 60's, as this set was really pretty. A great video Ron, keep up the great work.

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Thanks Richard! I was Army for awhile.

  • @thomasmoroney4993
    @thomasmoroney4993 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Museum piece!…..pristine!…great friend that gave you this..

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      It is really nice. Glad he offered it to the channel

  • @danhoyland142
    @danhoyland142 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Watched from start to finish. Great job on this One.

  • @garyjust.johnson1436
    @garyjust.johnson1436 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Very nice! Never saw this train set before now!

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Me neither. Glad I got to see one and work on it

  • @johnmalley4355
    @johnmalley4355 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Never heard of KMT before, interesting. Very nice train set Ron. Keep up the shows, always watch em all the way, have to know how it ends up…👍🏻👍🏻

  • @azslotracer
    @azslotracer 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Great video and train set. I have some of the original AMT O gauge passenger sets from the early 1950s. The O gauge Aluminum cars came out 2 years before Lionel’s 2500 series cars. I prefer their size over Lionel’s as they are just a bit short and look better on a small radiused track layout. That HO set knocks it out of the park. The KMT boxcars nailed it as well being produced years before Lionel’s 6464 boxcars. I will keep my open for one of these sets know after seeing your set! Great video for us non HO guys who might have ever known about this gem of a set! Thanks for sharing!

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Yes I read how KMT made better looking O scale stuff and Lionel played keep up for a few years. Didnt want to go down that O gauge rabbit hole on a HO video. Thanks for watching!!

    • @azslotracer
      @azslotracer 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      @classicmodeltrains sure I get it. Stay away from the rabbit holes lol!

  • @jonpowell-ov3yh
    @jonpowell-ov3yh 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Wow, what a gorgeous set! That one is definitely a nice addition to the collection.
    I don't know about Montana, but here in Indiana it's funny how every single VFW and American Legion has the exact same smell going on in it...not complaining, just an observation

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Thanks. That smell is ben gay and butterscotch hard candies (ha ha ha........ I 'll let myself out)

    • @jonpowell-ov3yh
      @jonpowell-ov3yh 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      @@classicmodeltrains With a soussant of PBR reduction and Lucky Strike smoke....

  • @elleryparsons2433
    @elleryparsons2433 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    That’s Why I Love Model Railroading!👍.

  • @DarthSantaFe
    @DarthSantaFe 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Very nice find! That is definitely the Globe/Athearn F7 with the original geared chassis, which you can also find in the old runs of the GP7/GP9. Athearn changed those trucks to all plastic around 1960 (which was a huge downgrade from the original metal version) before settling on the standard gear drive in 64 or 65, which they of course still use today! The paint on that shell is Globe/Athearn original, so if you find another identical Globe era shell then you can swap it on there and no one would know.
    I thought at first that those were just well-polished O.K. Herkimer passenger cars, but it looks like those were actually by KMT! They also made some very nice Lionel reproduction motors, one which I have powering a Standard Gauge 381E reproduction by Williams.

    • @raymondleggs5508
      @raymondleggs5508 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Herkimer could have bought the milling plans for the KMT cars for their kits

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Many have mentioned Herkimer, some are feuding over it (go figure ;-). I have many all metal trucked Athearns. I really like them. Getting parts is another story. Thanks for stopping by Darth!!!

    • @markiewodi3371
      @markiewodi3371 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Didn’t Mantua do the extruded cars?

  • @user-uo5il4re4r
    @user-uo5il4re4r 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Hi Ron, this episode was a real eye opener. Both for HO and fine O scale which I also do. Many thanks for that.

  • @GaryDavis-ir6fh
    @GaryDavis-ir6fh 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    that would make me smile, lovely vintage ho pieces!

  • @SantaFeBob
    @SantaFeBob 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    That was a great repair and cleaning demonstration. If only the diesel had a working headlight. The passenger cars had an awesome shine. That was an excellent find. Another double thumbs up for this video. 👍👍

    • @lynnmccurdythehdmmrc2561
      @lynnmccurdythehdmmrc2561 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      I'm sure it could be modified, but then it would take away the value as a collectible.

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Thanks Bob! I agree with Lynn, I wouldn't want to modify the shell. Could just throw a athearn on it and wire in a light.

    • @SantaFeBob
      @SantaFeBob 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@classicmodeltrains I never said to make an alteration. I just said “if it had a working headlight.” Definitely leave it in its original condition. Lol

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      @@SantaFeBob oops. I read it a bit fast. Looks like we think alike!!

  • @darrenrawlinson6344
    @darrenrawlinson6344 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    It's a great feeling when you get a train set, and what a train set! (The contemporary equivalent here, i think, would be a 00 scale, Hornby Dublo, Duchess powered, Royal Scot set.) The little lady will be wondering why her polish keeps running out!

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Thanks Darren, Yup she makes me buy my own polishing cream :-)

  • @josephkearney9319
    @josephkearney9319 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Beautiful Train!

  • @user-vv3nn4jc3w
    @user-vv3nn4jc3w 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Amazing video…first t8me I have seen a KMT Product…love the shine…sounds sweet…

  • @_mdh_1998
    @_mdh_1998 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Another fantastic video Ron! It’s very interesting to see you find these fantastic engines and models in the most random places! I haven’t seen much of those, but I’ll tell you with that box I sent you some time ago I am pretty sure there was some of the parts for those engines. I know there was a bunch of couplers and some other small stuff. I think i also have a dummy B unit frame for one of these in my desk I was just looking at it yesterday and realized it’s the same damn thing.
    They really made train sets a helluva lot better than they do today. Although with the older stuff we do have the urge to modernize it with DCC and sound and lights. It adds all the more better to this hobby. A beautiful restoration on this unit. Really built like a tank! So happy to be part of the 33% group. I always watch your videos and all the way though!
    Hope to hear from you soon my friend and I’ll need to get some more stuff set aside for another care package for you!

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Hello Marc, was just looking at them globe A B B A's and the old GP unit with the old yellow box drives. Thinking they are going to be coming up real soon. can reference the similarities with this KMT. OOOOhhh! Care package? YES PLEASE. :-)

  • @user-df6ld5rg3q
    @user-df6ld5rg3q 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Another great video. Thanks Ron keep up the great work!

  • @StephenCarlBaldwin
    @StephenCarlBaldwin 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Ah -- the dreaded passenger car flicker. Could an appropriate charge-storing capacitor be part of the solution to this malady? I was totally ignorant about KMT HO until I viewed this -- thanks for informing me and (more importantly), making this journey a successful instance of kick-butt Model Railroading Edutainment. Because I -- like you -- am blown away by the engineering behind this unit, I hopped out to eBay and checked out some other KMT HO items. No F7s for sale (plenty of Baldwins) -- alone or in sets -- you indeed have a rare one. Great video!

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Yes a Capacitor would fix that issue. Thanks for your kind words Stephen :-)

  • @stevenwaller192
    @stevenwaller192 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Hey Ron! Good job! Great train set ! Your videos are soo darn captivating. I’m compelled to watch all the way through. So I’m proud to be one of your 33%ers.
    Maybe people will catch on and
    Become 45%ers. Fingers crossed 🤞
    Hope to see some Lionel HO locomotives. With the belt drives.
    I’m messing with a Texas Special set lately.

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Thank you for supporting my channel. 45% finish rate would be awesome. Belt drives, have not come across any to fix up......YET!!

  • @thelazyfishkeeper2730
    @thelazyfishkeeper2730 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    what a sweet ride. stay well.

  • @alaskarailroad3996
    @alaskarailroad3996 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Very nice set. I love your layout. First time I seen it.

  • @GaryDavis-ir6fh
    @GaryDavis-ir6fh 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    its kinda fun going down to the depot and watching the trains go by cause ya know you love to hear the whistle even if ya aint goin nowhere, at my age especially!LOL!

  • @bartholomewsorrentino9013
    @bartholomewsorrentino9013 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Hi, Ron. Thank you for your research and ‘histories’.

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      You betcha Bart, Makes my videos stand out a bit :-)

  • @buddy-wrenchgarage
    @buddy-wrenchgarage 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Awesome video! Such a pretty set, For the passenger car lighting situation I recommend adding a small capacitor in line with the bulbs, stops the flickering

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Capacitors would definitely smooth it out

  • @stevekovoc3939
    @stevekovoc3939 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    That diesel looks identical to my old Globe (by Athearn) F unit I have except mine is just plain silver. I wonder if KMT maybe collaborated with Athearn? Really well made stuff!

    • @suppylarue220
      @suppylarue220 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      that IS a globe athearn shell. KMT subbed out for that set. passenger cars are by herkimer .

    • @franktino6676
      @franktino6676 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      No, the passenger cars are not Herkimer, I believe. They appear as KMT designs....

    • @suppylarue220
      @suppylarue220 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@franktino6676 look through your old period back issues of RMC, MRR, & MT; for advertisements and product reviews, you'll see those are RTR versions in a boxed set. The F7 is mated to a unique frame and disassembly in an effort similar to the later COX repackaging/ rebranding products to do the same thing.

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Very well made for sure!!

    • @franktino6676
      @franktino6676 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      No, I believe as Castellas does that the pax cars are not a Herkimer clone or an out sourcing from Herkimer but rather a Kusan design.
      @casstelles
      23 hours ago
      This is a great set. I think the shell maybe from Globe which is the reason it's like an Athearn and the drive system looks like an early Athearn, but there were separate drive systems offered for the Globe F7 shells before Athearn offered their F7. This engine may not be an in-house design, but the passenger cars are. @@suppylarue220

  • @lynnmccurdythehdmmrc2561
    @lynnmccurdythehdmmrc2561 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    33%er here. Not sure who was the Most excited about this Video, me seeing you had a new Video or You (most likely You) getting excited about this train set. Cool train and Cooler Video. Thanks.

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Greetings Lynn! I was excited getting another video out and on time :-)

  • @billjacon4527
    @billjacon4527 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Love your videos and the commentary.

  • @RocketStephen618
    @RocketStephen618 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    Some people use Automatic Transmission Fluid for their Light oil, and it seems it works rather well! One who does this is Darth Santa Fe, he does tune ups & repairs too. KMT Also did work on Brass locomotives, some Diesels used drive trucks by KMT, and lots of old Brass Steam Locomotives gearbox's were labeled as KMT! Maybe it's a different KMT? I really don't know. Either way, wonderful work as always Ron! Thanks for bringing light onto this rare set!

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      I seen a lot of KMT brass but its from Japan. Thats one reason why the research was difficult on this episode. So many companies using "KMT" as there logo

    • @RocketStephen618
      @RocketStephen618 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      @@classicmodeltrains Ohh, that makes sense! Apologies for my confusion

    • @leverettrailfan5414
      @leverettrailfan5414 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

      afaik the Japanese company is "KTM" rather than "KMT". They also made some 3-rail O gauge tinplate trains in the postwar years, tricky to find over here but they seemed to be plentiful on Japanese auction sites when I was looking into it a few years back.

  • @lynnwilliams2871
    @lynnwilliams2871 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Hi, just watching your video on KMT. Very interesting, especially since I've done several brass model diesels, namely ALCO models that use KMT trucks and drive trains. I just finished an Alco RS1 with the exact same driveline but has a much beefier Pittman motor. I've also seen the KMT logo on some brass steam gearboxes! Very interesting, love your channel, keep up the informative videos!

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Thanks Lynn. There is a KMT company out of Japan that does a lot of brass. Don't think it's related. couldn't find anything while researching

    • @lynnwilliams2871
      @lynnwilliams2871 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Could be, but that mechanism you showed is exactly the same as an ALCO models Alco RS1 I just rebuilt. But nonetheless, I like the history of the KMT you gave. Great work, thanks!]

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@lynnwilliams2871 ooh. Ok I’m hearing you now. Great information . Thanks :-)

  • @charlesdempsey176
    @charlesdempsey176 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Wow! You have a really good friend!

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  8 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      I asked him again about this set before production ended, he just said it was given to him and been sitting in the closet for years. Had no use for it.

  • @dewain50
    @dewain50 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    you can use conductive lube oil on the axle tips to help light flicker.

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I agree, lots of little tweaks to eliminate that problem

  • @gbwdude
    @gbwdude 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Two words: buttery smooth! Man she looks as good as she runs too. Great job, Ron.

  • @Planter19
    @Planter19 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    What a beautiful find....

  • @michaelquinones-lx6ks
    @michaelquinones-lx6ks 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    What a gem! I love the sixties, Hated the seventies!

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I love the 60's also. Wasn't there but I can pretend. Small town 60's like early on.

    • @michaelquinones-lx6ks
      @michaelquinones-lx6ks 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      ​@@classicmodeltrains Thank you for responding to my comment.

  • @jkrzc
    @jkrzc 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Great Set. Great VFW story.

  • @regisbraga3833
    @regisbraga3833 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    What a nice set! The metal cars are really very beautiful! Little touch of Santa Fe red here and there and the loco is gonna be perfect. Another great work Ron: congratulations!

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      This was quite a donation for sure. Been sitting here on a shelf for months. I never even opened the bags to look at the cars until the filming of this episode. Yup a little red will bring that windshield area around for sure. Take care My Friend!

  • @customwoodworketc1046
    @customwoodworketc1046 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Beautiful train ❤

  • @grumbeast
    @grumbeast 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Catching up on your videos and this one was a real treat!, those passenger cars are beautiful, I’m an N scaler, but your videos are persuading me to be on the lookout for interesting HO locomotives to fix up too!

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  5 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Thanks for supporting my channel! There is lots of interesting pieces out there

  • @jerryspann8713
    @jerryspann8713 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    You should have a soft towel or foam pad with your channel name printed or stitched into it. Would be perfect for working on locomotives or rolling stock that need protecting.

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Ooooh! towel with custom stitching on it......GREAT IDEA!!!! Thanks Jerry

  • @footienz
    @footienz 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Excellent video as always sir thoroughly enjoyed it! what a neat set, especially those cars

  • @mathuetax
    @mathuetax 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Wow, nicely built old kit!

  • @MygrandpasTrain
    @MygrandpasTrain 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Both those engine shells appear to be Athearns. I have an Athearn that is identical to a T with the KM T... Bad pun, sorry. You could drill out that fake headlight and add one if you really wanted to. Those cars are something special. Love the spit shine polish! I think the conductive axles on the cars are solid metal and then one side is varnished. Those axles are a pain sometimes cuz they are prone to short out with all metal trucks. Yeah I think those non operating couplers are period correct. I've found some like that that actually operate and then others of that design made of plastic. Again, when they work, they are great, but can be more complex to assemble than Kadees! I'd love to find anything by KMT for HO. I've seen their O scale cars at an antique mall. They never made anything for S gauge or I'd be hunting for that too.

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Greetings, Sure drilling out the shell would be easy enough. I will let the next owner do all the fancy mods if he wants. If I had to assemble Kadee's I would go somewhere else. Them little springs drive me insane. :-)

  • @henryszubielski8601
    @henryszubielski8601 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Wow what a beautiful set!
    Nice work. 😊

  • @keepamericayisraelgreat5708
    @keepamericayisraelgreat5708 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Once again Good Job.

  • @rennethjarrett4580
    @rennethjarrett4580 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Those coupler of that style were also used on the Lionel post-war HO scale steam sets as well. Back then they called them OO gauge...

  • @normancoreyBuildingTrains
    @normancoreyBuildingTrains 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Great video Great set

  • @toycarcollector
    @toycarcollector 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Very entertaining!

  • @thomasgp132
    @thomasgp132 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Very nice..quite engine. Waiting for the room to set up my old Tyco. I have an Air Force F7.

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Thanks! Time to stop waiting and make it happen. Switching yard?

    • @thomasgp132
      @thomasgp132 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@classicmodeltrains Could make it portable. Question have you ever made a layout for one of your RVs?

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@thomasgp132 Ive thought about it. That 40' diesel pusher bus would make a big space but it gets really hot in there in the summers. Vey expensive to heat in the winters

  • @4everdc302
    @4everdc302 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    A 9.5 for sure. The set would get full marks if it wasn't that Santa Fe paint😢 They could have done Rock Island,Burlington or something. Well aquired Ron👍🚂🇨🇦🇺🇲

    • @franktino6676
      @franktino6676 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Back in the 50s the ' Sante Fe ' was the ticket for model railroaders and kids,grandkids ...

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Thanks 4ever. I agree, I want different liveries :-)

  • @giuseppemassarelli2970
    @giuseppemassarelli2970 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Great 😊

  • @klsc8510
    @klsc8510 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    To improve the lighting in the cars, you can add a bridge rectifier circuit and between the light and the circuit add a capacitor.
    Capacitors only work one way as they have a negative and a positive. The bridge rectifier will send current one way no matter whether the train is going forwards or backwards. The capacitor can then store energy to keep the light more constant to avoid the flicker. Consult wiring advice for how to do this. I am just trying to help.

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Thanks for the good idea. Your the first Feller to mention the bridge rectifier so the l.e.d.s will light in both directions!

    • @klsc8510
      @klsc8510 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      In the USAF, I was a computer repairman. So on your dime I learned a bit about electronics.

  • @casstelles
    @casstelles 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    This is a great set. I think the shell maybe from Globe which is the reason it's like an Athearn and the drive system looks like an early Athearn, but there were separate drive systems offered for the Globe F7 shells before Athearn offered their F7. This engine may not be an in-house design, but the passenger cars are.
    As far as the passenger cars, they are much better than the Mantua or the Herkimer/OK Streamliners aluminum passenger cars on the design of them. I have many of the Mantua and Herkimer/OK streamliners aluminum passenger cars in collection, but these cars are something to look out for if the price is right for vintage HO equipment.
    As for the video, I can say this video was informative and a great look into a rare manufacture. Keep up the good work and let us know if you find anything more from KMT in HO scale.

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Thanks. I have some Globe shells w/ very early Athearn drives awaiting there turn at the repair table. yes very similar looking drives.

  • @lawrenceechols6453
    @lawrenceechols6453 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I have one of those f7 chassis motor and gears frame got it in a box of rubber band stuff rebuilt it ran out pretty good kind of a cool design but I was always wondering who made it I always thought maybe it was after the band drive era or something but maybe it's what you call KMT thanks Ron

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Glad to help ya out there Lawrence!!

  • @rwheatley0206
    @rwheatley0206 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    That is a sweet looking train.

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Thanks, It seems "top shelf" for sure :-)

  • @odalesaylor
    @odalesaylor 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Enjoyed it... again!

  • @frankmarkovcijr5459
    @frankmarkovcijr5459 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Santa Fe passenger trains always ran a B - unit because the steam generator was in the B-unit.

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I wish more sets had B units in them

  • @n4pwx
    @n4pwx 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Ron I really enjoyed thia video. Thanks my brother.

  • @raymondleggs5508
    @raymondleggs5508 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Even if I didn't like trains I'd buy that set.

  • @tonyromano6220
    @tonyromano6220 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Wow! New to me.

  • @danielpaulson786
    @danielpaulson786 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Nice train ron.wish it was mine.

  • @MartinSBrown-tp9ji
    @MartinSBrown-tp9ji 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    That is an early F 7 made by Ather. I had one.

  • @w.rustylane5650
    @w.rustylane5650 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I really like the design of that engine. I'll have to keep an eye out for any HO scale KMT's. You can drill out the headlight socket and put in an LED headlight. I'd change out that incandescent lighting with LED strip lighting with keep alive circuits, very easily done. So you're a veteran? So am I - USMC and Vietnam vet. Cheers - TN

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  9 หลายเดือนก่อน

      It was a good runner for it's time and still today. It's quite rare and I planned on selling it so I didnt want to do any "non-stock" modifications to it. Let the new owner do as they please is my motto. I was in the Army. 88M. Hooked to a 13B unit :-( No action under my belt. It was quiet when I signed up. Thank you for your service

  • @FlyingT5150
    @FlyingT5150 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Great video as always!

  • @matchboxcustomsandrestos
    @matchboxcustomsandrestos 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I have always been one of the 33%ers! Conductive grease. Like that silver anti seize. You come out of the shop looking like the tin man. Doesnt matter how careful you are. I know about being 55. Its hell on your whole body. Somehow I hurt my knee coughing yesterday. LOL

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Thanks for your support MC&R! Yeah, now I know why the "Old Guys" are always kinda crabby....Everything hurts :-D

    • @matchboxcustomsandrestos
      @matchboxcustomsandrestos 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@classicmodeltrains Remember when we was kids...the old guy in the neighborhood with all the cool stuff and tools? That is us now. AND, we can tell when its going to rain. We alway thought the old folks we crazy when they said its getting ready to rain. My knee is acting up. LOL

  • @michaelmorgan7893
    @michaelmorgan7893 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    That's a new one on me: I have seen about three or four different variations of Athearn stuff over the years, but not a KMT. It would make sense that KMT would become K- Line, which I have heard of. (Even though I haven't been into O scale or O gage, because of its "toylike" appearance. But even at nearly 60, seems like I'm learning something new every day.

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      O scale is usually pretty prototypical. It's the O-27 that's toy like in appearance. Yes.. always new stuff to learn about for sure :-)

    • @michaelmorgan7893
      @michaelmorgan7893 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@classicmodeltrains I like the newer Lionel stuff that looks more to scale. I never cared much for the "carnival ride" look of 0-27 and the fantasy paint schemes.
      The only thing about O scale is the cost. I was able to get a G Scale EMD GP30 for under $500 last summer.

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@michaelmorgan7893 Wow! Big bucks for that G stuff.

    • @michaelmorgan7893
      @michaelmorgan7893 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@classicmodeltrains true. But I've noticed HO and N scales are getting just as bad. And I don't do DCC, either.

    • @kennethmorgan3557
      @kennethmorgan3557 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      K-Line didn't take their name

  • @2nd66tube2
    @2nd66tube2 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I'm only 25 miles or so from Endicott ,it seems like I would see some KMT stuff around but I never have

  • @anthonysmithson4496
    @anthonysmithson4496 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Hi Ron, maybe a simple in line capacitor, may fix the light flicker.?

  • @SleeperBBQ
    @SleeperBBQ 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    TY

  • @CannonCountry
    @CannonCountry 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Listening/watching this while I re-paint and wait for it to dry on a Bachmann passenger car
    Sweet engine

    • @classicmodeltrains
      @classicmodeltrains  7 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Ha ha, I do that also. Watch the TH-cam while waiting for something to dry or glue to set up