I have negotiated in principle an arrangement where ESM will release a run of the East Wind trucks. I'm currently in discussions with San Juan to confirm it remains feasible to reissue the product.
I am inclined to release simply the truck frames, bolster beam, bolster screw, coupler pocket and brass screw, with two sets of components per package to equip one model. The plastic wheels seem (to me) to be a waste of cost, given that the overwhelming majority of consumers who would purchase these would swap in metal wheels. As it is, given the design of the East Wind tool does not include the bolster beam, one of the standard ALM truck tools must be run as well to obtain the bolster beam. This already doubles the production run cost. Not having the plastic wheels (which would require running a third tool) should help keep the MSRP down.
The initial run most likely will be 500 sets but it could be as many as 1,000 sets. To be determined is whether or not the product still can be sold through normal distribution channels (as opposed to direct-only), since the tool-owner must be compensated as well as San Juan Car for running the parts. This may be a one-shot deal, as it will depend on the final costs as well as demand.
What are everyone's thoughts regarding not having wheels included with the contents?
UPDATE: No cost difference between 500 sets and 1,000 sets on the production side, so the initial run will be 500 sets.
