N Scale GP7 Chop Nose Conversion

I've wanted one of these for a long time; as I was growing up we saw many GP7s, GP9s, and even a few GP18s alongside their newer brethren.  We've had lots of GP7 and GP9 models (and even two variations of GP18!), but one problem:

This is the usual reality.


Our models though are ALL high hood (with one rare exception from Canada of a Life Like chop-nose GP9).


So after looking at available parts, I realized that short noses and cabs from two different SD models would work. I even built a mock-up using an old GP9 shell (for the really old 1980s Atlas version) to see how it would all come out.


Today I took the plunge. Here's the first ever view of the end result:

and head-on:

Work involved (in VERY condensed version):


- Disassemble the GP7
- Trim the frame at the front to clear the low nose; it's a bit too tall.
- Trim the high short hood from the GP7 body. I had to trim the 'gap' that the cab sits in to allow the cab to fit low enough on the body. There is a structural difference between the stock and new cab.
- Remove the short hood from the SD cab; I will do this slightly differently in the future for better mounting
- Reassemble the frame AFTER a thorough cleaning.
- Test run the frame
- Replace the lower body (walkway and frame).
- Fit the long hood in place
- Fit the short hood in place
- Fit the cab in place
- Show off


I've got to get good enough at painting, hopefully over the summer, and then letter it. Weathering of course after "new" photos. Then on to GP9s. And GP18s. And SD9s. And SD7s...