Intermountain F-7A/B question

[BCOL 747]

I have a number of Intermountain F7B units that I would like to convert into A units by adding a replacement shell. Before I purchase a replacement shell I need to know to know if the A shell will fit on the IM B mechanism? Do they share the same mechanism?

Thank you,
Chris

[CBQ Fan]

I would think that the mechanism would be the same.  The couplers are all body mounted so that should not be an issue (think Kato) so I would think you could simply sap shells.  I only have an F7 B and an FT set.

[Philip H]

Wouldn't the A mechanism have a notch on the front to account for the cab windows, etc?  If so, then I'd say it was a no go.

[spookshow]

The only difference between an A and a B (apart from the shell) is that the A's have headlights and the B's don't.

-Mark

[BCOL 747]

Brian, Philip & Mark

Thank you for the replies. Mark, I assume that the light is attached to the PC board. If I installed a decoder with a light would the frame need notching or are there fiber optic tubes in the A that lead to the front headlight?

Kind regards,
Chris

[spookshow]

Unfortunately, the A unit headlights are not part of the PC board. Rather, they are mounted to the front of the chassis and connected to the PC board via a couple of wires. This is one of my few gripes about these locos, since DCC conversion involves a soldering iron - IE, you have to disconnect the headlight wires from the stock PC board and then re-solder them to the decoder.



Some good news for you is that the B units do come with the little headlight shroud (it being part of the coupler assembly, believe it or not). You'd just need to provide your own bulbs and then solder them to the decoders.



Cheers,
-Mark

[BCOL 747]

Thanks Mark, the photos are very helpful indeed. I will now purchase the A shells I need.
Take care,
Chris
 

[mark.hinds]

May I ask, who did you find who sells spare Intermountain shells?

MH

[CBQ Fan]

I have seen them all over EBay lately.

[BCOL 747]

Hi Mark

That is correct. There are a bunch on e bay this week.

Chris

[wm3798]

So most of the F shells are running from $10 to $15.  The Western Maryland shells are popping over $30.  What's that tell ya?

Lee

[Philip H]

So most of the F shells are running from $10 to $15.  The Western Maryland shells are popping over $30.  What's that tell ya?

Lee

That someone is hoarding them . . .

[Bob Bufkin]

And your charging to much

[sizemore]

They went for over $40 clams a piece. Jesus. Bring me the Circus, Intermountain!!!!

The S.