Where did this idea originate?

Athearn #29270 Streamlined RPO, Amtrak/Phase IV #1808

Phase IV (a few years back) RPO ?  The last RPO was about 40 years ago (closer to 50).

Have you any other examples of Currently Produced absurdities?

I am asking the MHR community for some help in solving a problem I created with my choice of layout scenery. My layout was originally conceptualized 25 yrs ago as a much smaller layout with no intention of adding a backdrop or anything like that. I started this current version with the old idea then expanded it because I had the room to do so. Although I do plan on adding a backdrop at some point, I didn't take this into consideration when I stuck with the basics of how I originally thought the scenery would look. 

 When I bought this about two years ago it was an abortion, a Bachmann BQ23-7 shell on this frame #38018. Any ideas as to which Athearn shell is supposed to be on this frame number? It doesn't match any of the other frames I have. Divided fuel tank, high mounted brake cylinders, Air tanks in front of fuel tanks, just below front fly wheel.

Scales out at 58' long. coupler mount to coupler mount.

Thank you in advance for your assistance.

Charlie

Although I'm more one to post how-to blogs than updates, I thought I'd try to combine the two to some degree here today as I have about a week until I go back to college. I've had about three weeks off now, but unfortunately many projects only get about 50% done until I realize that I don't have an essential tool or part to complete the job.