Gentlemen thanks for the reply. I have the 2012 catalog and have refered to page 58 & 59 for a view of the CSX GP40 engine in question. On page 58 it mentions DC Equipped. While not using DCC equipped Athearn engines I'm not 100% familair with the fact that there might be a switch or plug to use to allow them to be either DC or DCC. If there's something under the shell that I will need to do how involved is it to remove the shell to accomplish this ? While on the same subject is it easy to reach the gears on the trucks from the top or underside in the event that they need to be lubrication eventually. The same with changing out couplers on these engines how involved is it ?
As mentioned I only use Ready to Roll Athearn and am looking forward to seeing and trying a Bachmann Ready to Run engine coupled to an Athearn 4 axel for their operations and possibly purchase some to compliment my CSX fleet of GP38 &GP40 engines.
Thank you,

I have been operating my HO layout for over 45 years. I've used Athearn Ready to Roll engines exclusively. Lately I've come to notice the Bachmann line of fine Ready to Run GP40-2 engines in the CSX Dark Future paint scheme.
What I'd like to know from the other modelers that use Bachmann diesels out there is if Athearn and Bachmann are compatible if used together, whether in 2,3 or 4 engines coupled together.
I'm very impressed with the paint and numbers on your engines, but before making purchases to compliment my CSX GP38-2 & GP40-2 fleet I would like to know if they are compatible. ( multiple units coupled together)
I still run the locomotives with a DC power pack and purchasing anything with sound etc is just not for me. I'll stay old school.
Looking for answers if possible out there and a thank you to all those who reply to my questions.
Thank you,