I recently picked up a Globe Models dummy F-7 A and B units from a local old timer (anyone older than I am is an "old timer"!) I had heard that these models later became the start of the Athearn line. Does anyone have an idea when Globe Models were sold? I wonder when Athearn took over their line. I also recall the powered versions used a rubber band drive; I've seen one of the early Athearn GP-9's like this.
They are interesting because the shells are the familiar Athearn, but the chassis is different. It's made of plastic, with screw on trucks and couplers. It has two internal plastic bulkheads. The only major change I can see when compared to Athearn shells is the number boards are separate items to be glued on. The horns are much more complicated, being assembled from three separate tiny pieces.
The modelers of the day had their work cut out for them, as these Union Pacific "decorated" models were only partially completed. They are molded in yellow and painted yellow, with the UP name and number stamped on the side. The full color assembly instructions show how to paint a part of the roof, the side skirting and the pilot grey. They also indicate that a red stripe is to be painted on the edges of the grey on the roof, and along the bottom of the sides. That must have been fun! The separate number boards are molded in black, so they would have to be painted yellow to match the rest of the model. There is a decal of the UP crest with wings for the nose too.
The couplers are shown in the illustration as being non-working prototypical looking ones, although my kit did not include them.
A bit of model railroad history!
Bob Boudreau Canada