The recent issue of the NKPHTS Magazine with the RS3 coverage reminded me that back in the 1980s, Weaver announced a plastic RS3. I ordered mine from THE TRAIN STATION in Columbus, Ohio and eagerly awaited its arrival. I got an undecorated model. At the time I was a member of the NMRA Division 6 layout group at the Ohio State Fairgrounds. This included a large O scale 2 rail layout. Several of us purchased RS3s.
The 1980s was a time when O scale modeling was between the old blacksmith-machinist Central Loco /All-Nation era and the new Atlas, Weaver, etc. RTR era. We were excited to see the new Weavers.
I got mine and I can’t remember if I ever ran it. If I did, it wasn’t much. Some others got RS3s, and they started out being good units but over time the usual cracked gears showed up and other issues. Luckily, modelers figured out how to make repairs and upgrade the engines. P&D Hobbies did wonderful things for them. I remember getting a P&D upgraded drive unit.
Fast forward to today. When I read the RS3 article I remembered my old Weaver. It’s been in the original box since I purchased it. I also never used the upgrade kit. I began to wonder what it would take to make mine an NKP unit.
It’s not the correct “phase.” Mine has louvers and the NKPs did not. I believe their units were a Phase “5” with no louvers and cut outs in the sides. This would involve a lot of work. I also understand that some outstanding and expensive mechanism upgrades are now available. With 3D printing of parts an option, I’m sure others could come up with the proper numberboard, class light brackets, headlights, Mars light, and the side ladder, etc. Maybe some of those are already available.
The HO folks now have a really nice Bowser RS3 that is NKP specific. I think O scalers should have the same!
Let’s hear some of your ideas!
Nickel Plate 48 
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