Menards Beta 4.5 Santa Fe Warbonnet FP7 - Comprehensive Testing & Review

This new O gauge model diesel by Menards has proper scale dimensions, it’s a prototype that has not been overproduced in the 3 rail market, yet it is familiar enough to attract those who remember Lionel’s classic F3 models.

The key points for FP7 identification are all present, except for the odd rear door. There are plenty of small details for a model in the economy price range.

The overall paint and decoration are excellent, even though my model has one small paint smudge, it’s hardly noticeable.

The model does not represent any specific prototype - in fact, Santa Fe did not own any FP7s, but it is a good representation of a generic FP7 model.

The only real visual distractions are the chrome - really Ray, lose the Chrome - and the rear door.

The Remote feels good in the hands and includes a volume control so you can adjust on the fly without opening up the locomotive - a BIG PLUS, and familiar look and operation for those who have experience with Command Control

As for Cons: I find None with the remote.

As for the important part, running the engine, the operation is smooth and quiet. The twin can motors provide plenty of pulling power. The high speed is about right for scale running - but you won’t win any drag races against Lionel Postwar models. At 18 volts, the low speed is a little quick, but dropping the transformer voltage to 12 volts improves this significantly without negatively impacting locomotive performance.

The electronic flywheel takes some getting used to, but it works - providing smooth stops.

My couplers functioned properly and held tightly, even with heavy trains, but they are incompatible with magnetic uncoupling sections.

Overall Performance Cons: None

As for the sounds, the volume control on the remote is a great feature. The engine sounds are good for a model in this price range. The crew talk feature is fun, and the voices are clear. The horn cuts out a bit too quickly, and has a tinny sound. The bell is way too fast.

Overall sounds are not as good as Lionel’s Lionchief models, but way better than Postwar models.

As for the lighting package, the headlight is clear and bright. Cab lighting is good, but the number boards are a bit dim. Directional lighting is a nice touch, but the rear headlight is in an incorrect position.

Overall, the lighting package is good.

In terms of general construction, the model is easy to disassemble and all parts are easily accessible thanks to screws. The wiring is neat and robust. The only downside is the plastic gears. Will they last? Time will tell.

Overall, Menards has a winner here, and if the production models are like this Beta version, it should be a hit.

The biggest negative factors are the plastic gears, and a sound system that isn’t up to the level of its competition.

Other potential negatives are availability. Menards items are usually low-quantity, one-time productions - as is the standard in today’s O Gauge market. So, if you snooze, you lose, as they say. There has also been a question of quality control regarding some Menards items. If Menards can prove a track record of good quality with these models, and price them properly, I think Menards will have a winner on their hands, and hopefully more cool locomotive models will follow. If so, I may be adding more 21st-century locomotives to my roster in the future!


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Littlefuse TVS Diodes: https://amzn.to/3ri56ht
Airpax 5 Amp Circuit Breaker: https://amzn.to/3reshsX [May be found elsewhere online cheaper - usearch the item number]

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