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Showing posts with label Diesel. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Diesel. Show all posts

Monday, March 8, 2010

Proto 2000 Ho Scale Alco PA/PB Locomotive Set - Union Pacific



ALCO PA refers to a family of A1A-A1A diesel locomotives built to haul passenger trains built in Schenectady, New York in the United States by a partnership of the American Locomotive Company (ALCO) and General Electric (GE) between June, 1946 and December, 1953. They were of a cab unit design, and both cab-equipped lead A unit PA and cabless booster B unit PB models were built.

The PAs, as well as their cousins, the ALCO FAs, were born as a result of Alco's development of a new diesel engine design, the Model 244. In early 1944, development started on the new design, and by early 1946, the first engines were beginning to undergo tests. This unusually short testing sequence was brought about by the decision of Alco's senior management that the engine and an associated line of road locomotives had to be introduced no later than the end of 1946. In preparation for this deadline, by January of 1946, the first 244 engines were being tested, and while a strike delayed work on the locomotives, the first two PA units were released for road tests in June 1946, for testing for one month on the Lehigh Valley Railroad. After these first tests were completed, the locomotives returned to the factory for refurbishment and engine replacement. In September 1946, the first production units, an A-B-A set of PA1s in Santa Fe colors were released from the factory, and sent to New York's Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, which had a private railroad siding, for exhibition before being launched into road service.

Two different models were offered: the 2,000 horsepower (1,500 kW) PA-1/PB-1 (built between September, 1946 and June, 1950); the 2,250 horsepower (1,680 kW) PA-2/PB-2 (built between April, 1950 and December, 1953)

Models popularly termed the PA-3/PB-3 were in fact only an upgrade of the PA-2/PB-2. The true PA-3/PB-3 model would have boasted 2,400 horsepower (1,800 kW), though none were ever built. Aside from the small power increase between the PA-1 and the PA-2, differences between the models were minor. Externally, PA-3s could be distinguished by the absence of the "eyebrow" trim piece on the grille behind the cab and the porthole window behind the radiator shutters. Internally, later PA-2 and PB-2 production featured a water-cooled turbocharger and other engine compartment changes, but these were frequently added to older models undergoing major repairs and/or overhauls.

Like its smaller cousin, the ALCO FA, the PA had distinctive styling, with a long, straight nose tipped by a headlight in a square, slitted grille, raked windshields, and trim pieces behind the cab windows that lengthened and sleekened the lines. The overall design owed something to the Fairbanks-Morse Erie-built design, which had been constructed by ALCO's electrical equipment partner General Electric at their Erie, Pennsylvania plant. The majority of PA components were compatible with the FA.

Fans deemed the PA one of the most beautiful diesels by design and an "Honorary Steam Locomotive", with the first being Professor George W. Hilton in a book review in the September, 1968, Trains Magazine,[2] because of a peculiarity of the ALCO 244 diesel prime mover when accelerating. Until the turbocharger came up to speed, thick clouds of black smoke would pour from the exhaust stacks, due to turbo lag. Photographing a moving PA while smoking became a prime objective of railfans.[3]

The ALCO 244 V16 diesel prime mover proved to be the undoing of the PA: The engine had been rushed into production, and proved to be unreliable in service. The PA locomotives failed to capture a marketplace dominated by General Motors Electro-Motive Division and their E-units. The original Santa Fe three unit set #51L, 51A and 51B was repowered in August 1954 with EMD 16-567C engines rated at 1,750 hp (1,305 kW). This EMD repowering of the PAs was economically unfeasible and the remaining Santa Fe PAs retained their 244 engines. The later 251-series engine, a vastly improved prime mover, was not available in time for ALCO to recover the loss of reputation caused by the unreliability of the 244. By the time the ALCO 251 engine was accepted into widespread use, General Electric (which ended the partnership with ALCO in 1953) had fielded their entries into the diesel-electric locomotive market. General Electric eventually supplanted ALCO as a manufacturer of locomotives. ALCO's loss of market share led to its demise in 1969.

See Union Pacific Model Trains: Athearn HO Scale C44-9W Locomotive - Union Pacific / Bachmann HO Scale Pacific Flyer Electric Train Set - Union Pacific / Athearn HO Scale GE AC4400 Locomotive - Union Pacific / Trainline HO Scale Alco FA-1 Locomotive - Union Pacific / Athearn HO Scale 4-8-4 Nothern "800" Locomotive - Union Pacific / Athearn HO Scale 50ft Combo Door Box Car - Union Pacific

Union Pacific News Articles: The Union Pacific Invests $5.7 Million To Improve Washington State Trackage / Railroad Photography - Saturday Afternoon At Oro Grande / Union Pacific To Sink $29 Million Into Improving Houston Infrastructure / The Union Pacific Increases Speed Through Malvern, Arkansas With Grade Crossing Improvements / Union Pacific Railroad Sets Monthly Record Moving Loaded Agricultural Unit Trains / Union Pacific Railroad's Pipeline Express Service Reaches 25,000 Rail Car Milestone / Railroad Photo Gallery - Union Pacific GP40-2 1368 (Ex Rio Grande) / The Diesel Railroad Locomotive - From Box Cabs And The SD40 To The SD70 And Gensets / The Cajon Pass Railroad Museum - The Birth Of A Dream

Monday, February 15, 2010

Athearn HO Scale SD75M Locomotive - Santa Fe / BNSF




The EMD SD75M is a series of diesel-electric locomotives produced by General Motors Electro-Motive Division in 1994. The series was a response to General Electric's Dash 9-44CW. By bumping up the output of the 16-710-G3 engine from 4000 to 4,300 horsepower (3,200 kW), the SD75 was a reality. The unit is recognized from the SD70 by the added bulge below the inertial air-intake on the right side of the unit. The "M" in the model designation is the style of the cab, in this case the North American style cab. The SD75I had a "WhisperCab" in EMD speak. Both models use the HTCR-II radial truck and are mounted on the 72 feet 4 inches (22.05 m) frame. This model only sold 76 units and was not as popular as the SD70. The biggest buyers of this model were the Santa Fe, now Burlington Northern Santa Fe.

Mainly built for a special request from ATSF/BNSF, the SD75M's are slightly more powerful than SD70M's, having horsepower ratings between 4,300 hp (3,200 kW) & 4500 hp. They are almost identical to SD70M's, but can be distinguished by looking for an equipment blower duct on the right side. SD70M's have a blower duct on the left side only (like most EMD's), but SD75M's have a blower duct on both sides of the locomotive.

See Also: BNSF Shareholders Approve Sale To Berkshire Hathaway / The BNSF Honors Three Shortline Railroads For Partnership Excellence / The Cajon Pass Railroad Museum - The Birth Of A Dream

Friday, February 12, 2010

Athearn HO Scale FP45 Locomotive - Santa Fe (Red & Silver Warbonnet)




The EMD FP45 is a cowl unit type of C-C diesel locomotive produced in the United States by General Motors Electro-Motive Division. It was produced beginning in 1967 at the request of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway, which did not want its prestigious Super Chief and other passenger trains pulled by freight style hood unit locomotives, which have external walkways. The Santa Fe preferred a cowl unit.

The EMD SDP45 was a good passenger locomotive, but to the Santa Fe it did not look the part. EMD therefore designed a lightweight "cowl" body to cover the locomotive, though it did not, as in earlier cab units, provide any structural strength, which remained in the frame. The cowl provided sleeker looks, better aerodynamics at speed, and allowed the crew to enter the engine compartment en route for diagnostics and maintenance. Final drive gear ratio for passenger service was 59:18.

The Santa Fe purchased nine of the locomotives (road numbers 100 through 108), and the Milwaukee Road bought five for its passenger service (road numbers 1 through 5). Reportedly, Illinois Central Railroad was considering an order for five FP45s as well (EMD order #5742, serial #s 34952-34956), but cancelled it. Such low production was feasible and profitable for EMD since the locomotive was fundamentally just a re-clothed SDP45. Power, as in the SDP45, was from a V20 645E3 engine (or prime mover) developing 3,600 hp (2,680 kW).

See Also: Tickets Now On Sale For The Return Of Santa Fe Locomotive 3751 To San Diego / The Cajon Pass Railroad Museum - The Birth Of A Dream / Santa Fe Locomotive 3751 To Return To San Diego In May 2010!

See Other HO Scale FP45 Locomotives: Athearn HO Scale FP45 Locomotive - Milwaukee Road

See Other HO Scale Santa Fe Items: Athearn HO Scale F45 Locomotive - Santa Fe (Blue & Yellow Warbonnet) / Athearn HO Scale F7A/F7B Locomotives - Santa Fe / MTH HO Scale 2-10-0 Russian Decapod Locomotive - Santa Fe / Bachmann HO Scale Rail King Electric Train Set - Santa Fe / Athearn HO Scale EMD GP38-2 Locomotive - Santa Fe / Athearn HO Scale PS-2 Covered Hopper - Santa Fe / Athearn 50ft Ice Reefer Box Car - Santa Fe (Scout) / Athearn HO Scale Cupola Caboose - Santa Fe / Athearn HO Scale GP60M Locomotive - Santa Fe / Athearn Genesis F45 HO Scale Locomotive - Santa Fe / Bachmann 2-10-4 Texas HO Scale Locomotive - Santa Fe / Bachmann 4-8-4 Northern Locomotive - HO Scale - Santa Fe / Proto 2000 Diesel EMD F7A-B Set Powered - HO Scale - Santa Fe / Bachmann HO Scale FT Locomotive - Santa Fe / Walthers HO Scale F7 Locomotive - Santa Fe

Athearn HO Scale F45 Locomotive - Santa Fe (Blue & Yellow Warbonnet)




An EMD F45 is a C-C cowled diesel-electric locomotive built by General Motors Electro-Motive Division between 1968 and 1971. Power was provided by an EMD 645E3 20-cylinder engine which generated 3,600 hp (2,680 kW).

After sponsoring the development of the FP45 passenger locomotive, the Santa Fe requested a similar freight locomotive from Electro-Motive. Where the FP45 was an SDP45 wrapped in a full-width Cowl carbody, the new F45 was essentially an SD45 given the same treatment.

Where the Santa Fe requested a full-width carbody for aesthetics, the Great Northern saw an opportunity to protect crews from the dangers of winter operation in northern climates.

The Santa Fe ordered two lots of twenty each, for 1968 delivery. Where the FP45s were delivered in Santa Fe's red, yellow and silver warbonnet colors, the forty F45s came in the blue and yellow freight colors. The second lot of F45s were equipped with steam lines so that they could be used as trailing units on passenger consists.

Great Northern ordered an initial lot of six, for 1969 delivery. These were numbered immediately following a previous lot of SD45s. Another lot of eight was ordered before the first six arrived. All were factory-painted in the GN's blue, white and grey Big Sky Blue colors.

GN ordered twelve more for 1970 delivery - they were to be numbered 441-452 - but the GN merged into the Burlington Northern prior to delivery, so they arrived with BN numbers and BN's green, white and black Cascade Green colors.

BN followed with a final order for twenty in 1971. Afterwards they returned to ordering SD45s. This final order differed in several small ways from the GN specs.

See Also: Tickets Now On Sale For The Return Of Santa Fe Locomotive 3751 To San Diego / The Cajon Pass Railroad Museum - The Birth Of A Dream / Santa Fe Locomotive 3751 To Return To San Diego In May 2010!

See Other HO Scale F45 Locomotives: Athearn HO Scale F45 Locomotive - Burlington Northern / Athearn Genesis F45 HO Scale Locomotive - Santa Fe

See Other HO Scale Santa Fe Items: Athearn HO Scale F7A/F7B Locomotives - Santa Fe / MTH HO Scale 2-10-0 Russian Decapod Locomotive - Santa Fe / Bachmann HO Scale Rail King Electric Train Set - Santa Fe / Athearn HO Scale EMD GP38-2 Locomotive - Santa Fe / Athearn HO Scale PS-2 Covered Hopper - Santa Fe / Athearn 50ft Ice Reefer Box Car - Santa Fe (Scout) / Athearn HO Scale Cupola Caboose - Santa Fe / Athearn HO Scale GP60M Locomotive - Santa Fe / Athearn Genesis F45 HO Scale Locomotive - Santa Fe / Bachmann 2-10-4 Texas HO Scale Locomotive - Santa Fe / Bachmann 4-8-4 Northern Locomotive - HO Scale - Santa Fe / Proto 2000 Diesel EMD F7A-B Set Powered - HO Scale - Santa Fe / Bachmann HO Scale FT Locomotive - Santa Fe / Walthers HO Scale F7 Locomotive - Santa Fe

Athearn HO Scale F45 Locomotive - Burlington Northern



An EMD F45 is a C-C cowled diesel-electric locomotive built by General Motors Electro-Motive Division between 1968 and 1971. Power was provided by an EMD 645E3 20-cylinder engine which generated 3,600 hp (2,680 kW).

After sponsoring the development of the FP45 passenger locomotive, the Santa Fe requested a similar freight locomotive from Electro-Motive. Where the FP45 was an SDP45 wrapped in a full-width Cowl carbody, the new F45 was essentially an SD45 given the same treatment.

Where the Santa Fe requested a full-width carbody for aesthetics, the Great Northern saw an opportunity to protect crews from the dangers of winter operation in northern climates.

The Santa Fe ordered two lots of twenty each, for 1968 delivery. Where the FP45s were delivered in Santa Fe's red, yellow and silver warbonnet colors, the forty F45s came in the blue and yellow freight colors. The second lot of F45s were equipped with steam lines so that they could be used as trailing units on passenger consists.

Great Northern ordered an initial lot of six, for 1969 delivery. These were numbered immediately following a previous lot of SD45s. Another lot of eight was ordered before the first six arrived. All were factory-painted in the GN's blue, white and grey Big Sky Blue colors.

GN ordered twelve more for 1970 delivery - they were to be numbered 441-452 - but the GN merged into the Burlington Northern prior to delivery, so they arrived with BN numbers and BN's green, white and black Cascade Green colors.

BN followed with a final order for twenty in 1971. Afterwards they returned to ordering SD45s. This final order differed in several small ways from the GN specs.

See Also: The History Of Burlington Northern Steam Power?

Other Burlington Northern HO Scale Items: Athearn HO Scale GP50 Diesel Locomotive - Burlington Northern / Athearn HO Scale F7A Diesel Locomotive - Burlington Northern / Trainline EMD GP9M HO Scale Locomotive - Burlington Northern / Athearn HO Scale SD60M Locomotive - Burlington Northern / BNSF / Athearn HO Scale SD60M Locomotive - Burlington Northern Santa Fe / Intermountain Railway Company 40ft Box Car - Burlington Northern / Athearn HO Scale Cupola Caboose - Burlington

Athearn HO Scale FP45 Locomotive - Milwaukee Road





The EMD FP45 is a cowl unit type of C-C diesel locomotive produced in the United States by General Motors Electro-Motive Division. It was produced beginning in 1967 at the request of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway, which did not want its prestigious Super Chief and other passenger trains pulled by freight style hood unit locomotives, which have external walkways. The Santa Fe preferred a cowl unit.

The EMD SDP45 was a good passenger locomotive, but to the Santa Fe it did not look the part. EMD therefore designed a lightweight "cowl" body to cover the locomotive, though it did not, as in earlier cab units, provide any structural strength, which remained in the frame. The cowl provided sleeker looks, better aerodynamics at speed, and allowed the crew to enter the engine compartment en route for diagnostics and maintenance. Final drive gear ratio for passenger service was 59:18.

The Santa Fe purchased nine of the locomotives (road numbers 100 through 108), and the Milwaukee Road bought five for its passenger service (road numbers 1 through 5). Reportedly, Illinois Central Railroad was considering an order for five FP45s as well (EMD order #5742, serial #s 34952-34956), but cancelled it. Such low production was feasible and profitable for EMD since the locomotive was fundamentally just a re-clothed SDP45. Power, as in the SDP45, was from a V20 645E3 engine (or prime mover) developing 3,600 hp (2,680 kW).

Milwaukee Road's FP45s were all sold for scrap in 1981 and 1984.

Thursday, February 11, 2010

Bachmann HO Scale GP40 Locomotive - Alaska Railroad



An EMD GP40 is a 4-axle diesel locomotive built by General Motors Electro-Motive Division between November 1965 and December 1971. Power was provided by an EMD 645E3 16-cylinder engine which generated 3000 horsepower (2.2 MW).

1,187 examples of this locomotive model were built for American railroads, 16 were built for Canadian railroads, and 18 were built for Mexican railroads. Various passenger versions were also built.

In 1972, the GP40 was discontinued and replaced by the GP40-2, which had an improved electrical system and a few minor exterior cosmetic changes.

The Alaska Railroad (reporting mark ARR) is a Class II railroad which extends from Seward and Whittier, in the south of the state of Alaska, in the United States, to Fairbanks (passing through Anchorage), and beyond to Eielson Air Force Base and Fort Wainwright in the interior of that state. Uniquely, it carries both freight and passengers throughout its system, including Denali National Park (most other intercity passenger rail in the U.S.A. is carried on the Federal Amtrak system). The railroad has a mainline over 470 miles (760 km) long and is well over 500 miles (800 km) including branch lines and sidings. It is currently owned by the State of Alaska. The railroad is connected to the lower 48 via three rail barges that sail between the Port of Whittier and Harbor Island in Seattle (the Alaska Railroad-owned Alaska Rail Marine, from Whittier to Seattle, and the CN Rail-owned Aqua Train, from Whittier to Prince Rupert, British Columbia) but does not currently have a fixed land connection with any other railroad lines on the North American network. In 2008, the company earned a profit of $12.5 million (down 23%) on revenues of $158.7 million (up 6.9%), $121.7 million of which was operating revenue (up 5.2%).

See Also: Bachmann N Scale Electric Train Set - McKinley Explorer - Alaska Railroad

Other HO Scale GP40 Locomotives: Bachman HO Scale GP40 Locomotive With Dummy And Caboose - Santa Fe / Athearn HO Scale GP40-2 Locomotive - Southern Pacific

Thursday, February 4, 2010

Athearn HO Scale SD40T-2 Locomotive - Southern Pacific

Athearn HO Scale Ready To Run SD40T-2 Locomotive w/88" Nose, Southern Pacific #8498

Product Features

Fully assembled and ready for your layout
Upgraded tooling
Separately applied wire grab irons
Separately applied air tanks
Etched see-through side grilles


Product Description

== Key Features == / / * Fully assembled and ready for your layout / * Upgraded tooling / * Separately applied wire grab irons / * Separately applied air tanks / * Etched see-through side grilles / * See-through fans / * Celcon handrails / * DCC-ready wiring harness installed / * Prototype specific details applied / * McHenry scale knuckle spring couplers installed / / == Specs == / / * DCC:Ready / * SOUND:No / * PROTOTYPE MANUFACTURER:Electro Motive Division / * COUPLER STYLE:McHenry scale knuckle / * ERA:1975 - Present / * MIN. RADIUS:18 inches / * Minimum Age Recommendation:8 years / * Is Assembly Required:No


An EMD SD40T-2 is a 6-axle diesel locomotive built by General Motors Electro-Motive Division. Power is provided by a 16-cylinder EMD 645E3 diesel engine capable of producing 3000 horsepower (2,240 kW). The Southern Pacific's locomotive features a 4,400-US-gallon (16,700 l) fuel tank and is 70 feet 8 inches (21.54 m) long. The Rio Grande's locomotive features a smaller 4,000-US-gallon (15,100 l) fuel tank. A total of 312 examples of this locomotive were built for North American railroads between April 1974 and July 1980. This locomotive, along with the SD45T-2, are popularly called tunnel motors, but are officially referred to as SD40-2s with "cooling system modifications" (and the EMD manuals so state), because they were specifically designed to be more effective when operating in tunnels. The major differences between this locomotive and its non-tunnel motor cousin, the SD40-2, are the radiator intakes and radiator fan grills located at the rear of the locomotive. The radiator air intakes in this model were located along the deck to allow more fresh, cooler air to enter and less hot exhaust fumes lingering around the tunnels ceiling.

This locomotive model was purchased by the Southern Pacific Railroad, its subsidiary Cotton Belt, and the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad. At one point Southern Pacific and then later the Union Pacific owned every SD40T-2.

In 2005 most of these units were in service on the Union Pacific or various leasing companies. By 2008 none were left in service on the Union Pacific with SP or DRGW reporting marks. DRGW 5371 was the last one retired from active service in March 2008. The Union Pacific still runs many of these units in its own livery.

Other Southern Pacific Items: Intermountain Railway Company HO Scale AC-12 4-8-8-2 Locomotive - Southern Pacific / Athearn HO Scale SD70M Locomotive - Southern Pacific / Athearn HO Scale AC4400 Locomotive - Southern Pacific / MTH HO Scale GS-4 4-8-4 Locomotive - Southern Pacific/ Bachmann HO Scale 4-8-4 GS-4 Locomotive - American Freedom Train #4449 / Bachmann HO Scale 4-8-4 GS-4 Locomotive - Southern Pacific (War Baby) / Athearn HO Scale C44-9W Locomotive - Southern Pacific / Athearn HO Scale GP40-2 Locomotive - Southern Pacific / Athearn HO Scale Bay Window Caboose - Southern Pacific

Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Athearn HO Scale SD70M Locomotive - Southern Pacific

Athearn HO Scale SD70M Locomotive - Southern Pacific #9822

Product Features

Researched from the prototype to match specific units
Genesis driveline with dynamically balanced five-pole skew wound motor and dual flywheels
Directional, constant lightling
Working ditch lights
Cab interior


Product Description

Features / / * Researched from the prototype to match specific units / * Genesis driveline with dynamically balanced five-pole skew wound motor and dual flywheels / * Directional, constant lightling / * Working ditch lights / * Cab interior / * Factory installed Celcon handrails / * DCC ready / / Specifications / / DCC: Ready / SOUND: No / PROTOTYPE MANUFACTURER: Electro Motive Division / COUPLER STYLE: McHenry Scale Knuckle / Minimum Age Recommendation: 14 years / Is Assembly Required: No

The EMD SD70 is a series of diesel-electric locomotives produced by the Electro-Motive Division of General Motors beginning in 1992. Over 4000 locomotives in this series have been produced, mostly of the SD70M and SD70MAC models. All locomotives of this series are hood units with C-C trucks. All SD70 models up to the SD70ACe and SD70M-2 have the HTCR Radial truck, rather than the HT-C truck; the self-steering radial truck was designed to allow the axles to steer in curves, reducing wear on the wheels and railhead. With the introduction of the SD70ACe and SD70M-2, in an effort to reduce cost EMD introduced a new bolsterless non-radial HTSC truck as the standard truck for these models. The radial truck, now the HTCR-4, is still an option.

The SD70M has a wide nose and a large comfort cab (officially known as the "North American Safety Cab"), allowing more crew members to ride comfortably inside of the locomotive than the older standard cab designs. There are two versions of this cab on SD70M's, the Phase I, which was introduced on the SD60M, and is home on the SD80MAC & SD90MAC's and the Phase II, which made a return to a more boxy design a la the original 3 window SD60M cabs. Though the Phase II cab has a two piece window matching the Phase I cab windows, the lines of the nose are boxy, with a taller square midsection for more headroom. The SD70ACe/SD70M-2 line has what is considered the Phase II cab, but it is actually more so a Phase III cab, as the windows went from the teardrop design to a rectangular window. Like the SD70, the SD70M also uses DC traction motors. Starting in mid-2000, the SD70M was produced with SD45-style flared radiators allowing for the larger radiator cores needed for split-cooling (split-cooling is a feature that separates the coolant circuit for the prime mover and the circuit for the air pumps and turbocharger). There are two versions of this radiator, the older version with two (2) large radiator panels per side, and the newer style with four (4) square panels per side. This was due to the enactment of the EPA's Tier I environmental regulations. Production of the SD70M was replaced by the SD70M-2 in late 2004, as the EPA's Tier II regulations went into effect on January 1, 2005. 1,646 examples of this model locomotive were produced. SD70M models were produced with 4000 horsepower (2,980 kW) EMD Model 710 prime movers. Purchasers included CSX, New York Susquehanna & Western (part of EMDX order #946531), Norfolk Southern, Southern Pacific (now UP), and Union Pacific.

This locomotive model is also built for export, and is still catalogued by EMD (at 4300hp). CVG Ferrominera Orinoco has 6 SD70Ms that were built as an add-on order to UPs FIRE cab equipped SD70Ms. Companhia Vale do Rio Doce (CVRD) in Brazil has ordered 27 of this model for service in Carajas pulling trainloads of iron ore. Since CVRD track is gauged at 1600 mm, a wider bogie, the HTSC2, was designed for these units by EMD.

See Other Southern Pacific Items: Athearn HO Scale AC4400 Locomotive - Southern Pacific / MTH HO Scale GS-4 4-8-4 Locomotive - Southern Pacific/ Bachmann HO Scale 4-8-4 GS-4 Locomotive - American Freedom Train #4449 / Bachmann HO Scale 4-8-4 GS-4 Locomotive - Southern Pacific (War Baby) / Athearn HO Scale C44-9W Locomotive - Southern Pacific / Athearn HO Scale GP40-2 Locomotive - Southern Pacific / Athearn HO Scale Bay Window Caboose - Southern Pacific

Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Athearn HO Scale F7A/F7B Locomotives - Santa Fe

Athearn HO Scale Ready To Run F7 A/B Locomotives, Santa Fe /Passenger #41L/#41A
Product Features

Fully assembled and ready to operate
B unit is unpowered
Super weight installed for extra traction
Machined RP25 profile metal wheels
McHenry scale knuckle spring couplers installed


Product Description

== Key Features == / / * Fully assembled and ready to operate / * B unit is unpowered / * Super weight installed for extra traction / * Machined RP25 profile metal wheels / * McHenry scale knuckle spring couplers installed / / == Specs == / / * DCC:No / * SOUND:No / * PROTOTYPE MANUFACTURER:Electro Motive Division / * COUPLER STYLE:McHenry Scale Knuckle / * ERA:1940 - Present / * MIN. RADIUS:18" Radius / * Minimum Age Recommendation:14 years / * Is Assembly Required:No

The EMD F7 was a 1,500 horsepower (1,100 kW) Diesel-electric locomotive produced between February 1949 and December 1953 by the Electro-Motive Division of General Motors (EMD) and General Motors Diesel (GMD). It succeeded the F3 model in GM-EMD's F-unit sequence, and was replaced in turn by the F9. Final assembly was at GM-EMD's La Grange, Illinois plant or GMD's London, Ontario facility. Although originally promoted as a freight-hauling unit by EMD, the F7 was also used in passenger service hauling such trains as the Santa Fe's El Capitan.

A total of 2,366 cab-equipped lead A-units and 1,483 cabless booster or B-units were built. The F7 was the fourth model in GM-EMD's successful line of F-unit locomotives, and by far the highest-selling cab unit of all time.

Many F7s remained in service for decades, as railroads found them economical to operate and maintain. However the locomotive was not very popular with the yard crews who operated them in switching service because they were difficult to mount and dismount, and it was also nearly impossible for the engineer to see hand signals from his ground crew without leaning way outside the window. As most of these engines were bought and operated before two-way radio became standard on most American railroads, this was a major point of contention. In later years, with the advent of the “GP” type “road switchers”, Fs were primarily used in “through freight” and “unit train” service where there was very little or no switching to be done on line of road.

The F7 can be considered the zenith of the cab unit freight Diesel, as it was ubiquitous on North American railroads until the 1970s (longer in Canada). The F7 design has become entrenched in the popular imagination due to it having been the motive power of some of the most famous trains in North American railroad history.

The F7 replaced the F3, differing primarily in internal equipment (mostly electrical) and some external features. The F7 was eventually succeeded by the more powerful but mechanically similar F9.

Other HO Scale F7 Locomotives: Intermountain Railway Company HO Scale F7 Locomotive - Rock Island / Athearn HO Scale F7 Locomotive - Rock Island / Athearn HO Scale F7A Diesel Locomotive - Burlington Northern / Proto 2000 HO Scale EMD F7A-B Locomotives - Canadian Pacific / Proto 2000 Diesel EMD F7A-B Set Powered - HO Scale - Santa Fe / Walthers HO Scale F7 Locomotive - Santa Fe

Other Santa Fe Items: Lionel O Scale El Capitan Electric Train Set - Santa Fe / Lionel O Scale FT Locomotive - Dummy - Santa Fe / MTH HO Scale 2-10-0 Russian Decapod Locomotive - Santa Fe / Bachmann HO Scale Rail King Electric Train Set - Santa Fe / Athearn HO Scale EMD GP38-2 Locomotive - Santa Fe / Athearn HO Scale PS-2 Covered Hopper - Santa Fe / Athearn 50ft Ice Reefer Box Car - Santa Fe (Scout) / Athearn HO Scale Cupola Caboose - Santa Fe / Athearn HO Scale GP60M Locomotive - Santa Fe / Athearn Genesis F45 HO Scale Locomotive - Santa Fe / Bachmann 2-10-4 Texas HO Scale Locomotive - Santa Fe / Bachmann 4-8-4 Northern Locomotive - HO Scale - Santa Fe / Proto 2000 Diesel EMD F7A-B Set Powered - HO Scale - Santa Fe / Bachmann HO Scale FT Locomotive - Santa Fe / Walthers HO Scale F7 Locomotive - Santa Fe

Sunday, December 20, 2009

Bachmann O Scale Dual FA1/FA1 Locomotives - Rock Island

Bachmann O Scale Dual FA1/FA1 Locomotives - Rock Island


The ALCO FA was a family of B-B diesel locomotives designed to haul freight trains. The locomotives were built by a partnership of ALCO and GE in Schenectady, New York, between January 1946 and May 1959. They were of a cab unit design, and both cab-equipped lead (A unit) FA and cabless booster (B unit) FB models were built. A dual passenger-freight version, the FPA/FPB, was also offered. It was equipped with a steam generator for heating passenger cars.

Externally, the FA and FB models looked very similar to the ALCO PA models produced in the same period. Both the FA and PA models were styled by GE's Ray Patten. They shared many of the same characteristics both aesthetically and mechanically. It was the locomotive's mechanical qualities (the ALCO 244 V-12 prime mover) and newer locomotive models from both General Motors Electro-Motive Division (EMD) and General Electric (the partnership with ALCO was dissolved in 1953) that ultimately led to the retirement of the locomotive model from revenue service. Several examples of FAs and FBs have been preserved in railroad museums, a few of them in operational status on such lines as the Grand Canyon Railway and the Napa Valley Wine Train.

The Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad (CRI&P RR) (reporting marks RI, ROCK) was a Class I railroad in the United States. It was also known as the Rock Island Line, or, in its final years, The Rock.

Its ancestor, the Rock Island and La Salle Railroad Company, was incorporated in Illinois on February 27, 1847, and an amended charter was approved on February 7, 1851, as the Chicago and Rock Island Railroad. Construction began October 1, 1851, in Chicago, and the first train was operated on October 10, 1852, between Chicago and Joliet. Construction continued on through La Salle, and Rock Island was reached on February 22, 1854, becoming the first railroad to connect Chicago with the Mississippi River.

In Iowa, the C&RI's incorporators created (on February 5, 1853) the Mississippi and Missouri Railroad Company, to run from Davenport to Council Bluffs, and on November 20, 1855, the first train to operate in Iowa steamed from Davenport to Muscatine. The Mississippi river bridge between Rock Island and Davenport was completed on April 22, 1856.

In 1857, Abraham Lincoln represented the Rock Island in an important lawsuit regarding bridges over navigable rivers. The suit had been brought by the owner of a steamboat which was destroyed by fire after running into the Mississippi river bridge. Lincoln argued that not only was the steamboat at fault in striking the bridge but that bridges across navigable rivers were to the advantage of the country.

M&M was acquired by the C&RI on July 9, 1866, to form the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad Company. The railroad expanded through construction and acquisitions in the following decades.

The Rock Island stretched across Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Dakota and Texas. The easternmost reach of the system was Chicago, and the system also reached Memphis, Tennessee; west, it reached Denver, Colorado, and Santa Rosa, New Mexico. Southernmost reaches were to Galveston, Texas, and Eunice, Louisiana while in a northerly direction the Rock Island got as far as Minneapolis, Minnesota. Major lines included Minneapolis to Kansas City, Missouri, via Des Moines, Iowa; St. Louis, Missouri Meta, Missouri, to Santa Rosa via Kansas City; Herington, Kansas, to Galveston, Texas, via Fort Worth, Texas, and Dallas, Texas; and Santa Rosa to Memphis. The heaviest traffic was on the Chicago-to-Rock Island and Rock Island-to-Muscatine lines.

See Other FA1 Locomotives: Trainline HO Scale Alco FA-1 Locomotive - Union Pacific

See Other O Scale Items: Lionel O Scale FT Locomotive - Dummy - Santa Fe / Lionel O Scale 4-6-6-4 Challenger Locomotive - Rio Grande / Lionel O Scale Electric Train Set - B&O - Just In Time For Christmas! / Lionel O Scale Electric Train Set - Rio Grande Flyer- Just In Time For Christmas! / Lionel O Scale Electric Train Set - Polar Express - Just In Time For Christmas!

See Other Rock Island Items: Intermountain Railway Company HO Scale F7 Locomotive - Rock Island / Athearn HO Scale F7 Locomotive - Rock Island / Bachman HO Scale 2-6-0 Mogul Locomotive - Rock Island / Bachmann Spectrum 2-8-0 Consolidation HO Scale Locomotive - Rock Island

Intermountain Railway Company HO Scale F7 Locomotive - Rock Island

Intermountain Railway Company HO Scale Ready To Run FP7A Locomotive - Rock Island


The EMD F7 was a 1,500 horsepower (1,100 kW) Diesel-electric locomotive produced between February 1949 and December 1953 by the Electro-Motive Division of General Motors (EMD) and General Motors Diesel (GMD). It succeeded the F3 model in GM-EMD's F-unit sequence, and was replaced in turn by the F9. Final assembly was at GM-EMD's La Grange, Illinois plant or GMD's London, Ontario facility. Although originally promoted as a freight-hauling unit by EMD, the F7 was also used in passenger service hauling such trains as the Santa Fe's El Capitan.

A total of 2,366 cab-equipped lead A-units and 1,483 cabless booster or B-units were built. The F7 was the fourth model in GM-EMD's successful line of F-unit locomotives, and by far the highest-selling cab unit of all time.

Many F7s remained in service for decades, as railroads found them economical to operate and maintain. However the locomotive was not very popular with the yard crews who operated them in switching service because they were difficult to mount and dismount, and it was also nearly impossible for the engineer to see hand signals from his ground crew without leaning way outside the window. As most of these engines were bought and operated before two-way radio became standard on most American railroads, this was a major point of contention. In later years, with the advent of the “GP” type “road switchers”, Fs were primarily used in “through freight” and “unit train” service where there was very little or no switching to be done on line of road.

The F7 can be considered the zenith of the cab unit freight Diesel, as it was ubiquitous on North American railroads until the 1970s (longer in Canada). The F7 design has become entrenched in the popular imagination due to it having been the motive power of some of the most famous trains in North American railroad history.

The F7 replaced the F3, differing primarily in internal equipment (mostly electrical) and some external features. The F7 was eventually succeeded by the more powerful but mechanically similar F9.

The Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad (CRI&P RR) (reporting marks RI, ROCK) was a Class I railroad in the United States. It was also known as the Rock Island Line, or, in its final years, The Rock.

The Rock Island jointly operated the Golden State Limited (Chicago—Kansas City—Tucumcari—El Paso—Los Angeles) with the Southern Pacific Railroad (SP) from 1902–1968. The name was shortened to the Golden State after 1948's modernization. Another joint venture with the SP, the Golden Rocket, was planned to enter service in 1948 but instead became "the train that never was," after SP withdrew from the joint train operating agreement. The Golden Rocket's uniquely-colored livery was placed in Golden State service instead.

In 1937, the Rock Island introduced Diesel power to its passenger service, with the purchase of six lightweight Rocket streamliners.

The railroad operated a number of trains known as Rockets serving the Midwest, including the Rocky Mountain Rocket (Chicago—Omaha—Lincoln—Denver—Colorado Springs), the Corn Belt Rocket (Chicago—Des Moines—Omaha), the Twin Star Rocket (Minneapolis—St. Paul—Des Moines—Kansas City—Oklahoma City—Fort Worth—Dallas—Houston), the Zephyr Rocket (Minneapolis—St. Paul—Burlington—St. Louis) and the Choctaw Rocket (Memphis—Little Rock—Oklahoma City—Amarillo—Tucumcari).

The Rock Island did not join Amtrak on its formation in 1971, and continued to operate its own passenger trains. After concluding that the cost of joining would be the same as operating the two remaining intercity roundtrips (the Chicago-Peoria Peoria Rocket and the Chicago-Rock Island Quad Cities Rocket), the railroad decided to "perform a public service for the state of Illinois" and continue intercity passenger operations. Both trains were discontinued on December 31, 1978.

The Rock Island also operated an extensive commuter train service in the Chicago area. The primary route ran from LaSalle Street Station to Joliet along the main line, and a spur line, known as the "suburban branch" to Blue Island. These services started to receive financial backing in 1976 from the newly formed Regional Transportation Authority. Today these lines are operated as part of Metra, and are known as the Rock Island District.

See Other HO Scale F7 Locomotives: Athearn HO Scale F7 Locomotive - Rock Island / Athearn HO Scale F7A Diesel Locomotive - Burlington Northern / Proto 2000 HO Scale EMD F7A-B Locomotives - Canadian Pacific / Proto 2000 Diesel EMD F7A-B Set Powered - HO Scale - Santa Fe / Walthers HO Scale F7 Locomotive - Santa Fe

See Other Rock Island Items: Athearn HO Scale F7 Locomotive - Rock Island / Bachman HO Scale 2-6-0 Mogul Locomotive - Rock Island / Bachmann Spectrum 2-8-0 Consolidation HO Scale Locomotive - Rock Island

Athearn HO Scale F7 Locomotive - Rock Island

Athearn HO Scale Modernized F7A Locomotive w/DCC & Sound, Rock Island /Frieght #111
Product Features

Researched from the prototype to match specific units
Factory installed onboard sound and DCC decoder
Individual sound boards installed in both A and B units
Genesis driveline with dynamically balanced five pole skew wound motor and dual flywheels
Directional constant lighting


Product Description

Features / / * Researched from the prototype to match specific units / * Factory installed onboard sound and DCC decoder / * Individual sound boards installed in both A and B units / * Genesis driveline with dynamically balanced five pole skew wound motor and dual flywheels / * Directional constant lighting / * Screw mounted chassis / * Individual window 'glass' / * Detailed battery boxes/air tank with brackets / * Detailed 1200-gallon or 1500-gallon fuel tank (as appropriate) / * Partial or complete de-skirting (as appropriate) / * Front and rear lift lugs (as appropriate) / * Front and rear MU hoses, coupler cut levers and air hoses / * Equipped with some or all of the following parts (as appropriate): eyebrow grabs, sunshades & mirrors, cab interior, nose-side ladder grabs, ladder rest grabs and SP snow plow / / Overview / / Athearn Genesis F units are now available in 'modernized' configurations and with an improved / factory installed onboard sound and DCC decoder. / / / / DC Functions: / / / / / / * All sound features are operated by a wireless handheld remote. No additional control box is required to operate advanced sounds. / / * Six-button wireless remote control allows control of the horn, bell, coupler crash,brake / squeal, dynamic brake and brake air release. / / * Additional programmable features allow for different bell and horn tones, coupleron/off, bell rate, directional lights on/off and volume control. / / * Creation of multiple unit lashup with horn, bell and lights on the lead unit only / / / / DCC Functions: / / / / / / * Compatible with all NMRA standard DCC systems / / * Programable for either 2 digit or 4 digit address / / * Programable start voltage / / * Programable acceleration/deceleration rate / / * Programmable top voltage / / * Programmable speed steps / / * Programmable individual unit sound volume / / * Factory equipped

The EMD F7 was a 1,500 horsepower (1,100 kW) Diesel-electric locomotive produced between February 1949 and December 1953 by the Electro-Motive Division of General Motors (EMD) and General Motors Diesel (GMD). It succeeded the F3 model in GM-EMD's F-unit sequence, and was replaced in turn by the F9. Final assembly was at GM-EMD's La Grange, Illinois plant or GMD's London, Ontario facility. Although originally promoted as a freight-hauling unit by EMD, the F7 was also used in passenger service hauling such trains as the Santa Fe's El Capitan.

A total of 2,366 cab-equipped lead A-units and 1,483 cabless booster or B-units were built. The F7 was the fourth model in GM-EMD's successful line of F-unit locomotives, and by far the highest-selling cab unit of all time.

Many F7s remained in service for decades, as railroads found them economical to operate and maintain. However the locomotive was not very popular with the yard crews who operated them in switching service because they were difficult to mount and dismount, and it was also nearly impossible for the engineer to see hand signals from his ground crew without leaning way outside the window. As most of these engines were bought and operated before two-way radio became standard on most American railroads, this was a major point of contention. In later years, with the advent of the “GP” type “road switchers”, Fs were primarily used in “through freight” and “unit train” service where there was very little or no switching to be done on line of road.

The F7 can be considered the zenith of the cab unit freight Diesel, as it was ubiquitous on North American railroads until the 1970s (longer in Canada). The F7 design has become entrenched in the popular imagination due to it having been the motive power of some of the most famous trains in North American railroad history.

The F7 replaced the F3, differing primarily in internal equipment (mostly electrical) and some external features. The F7 was eventually succeeded by the more powerful but mechanically similar F9.

See Other HO Scale F7 Locomotives: Athearn HO Scale F7A Diesel Locomotive - Burlington Northern / Proto 2000 HO Scale EMD F7A-B Locomotives - Canadian Pacific / Proto 2000 Diesel EMD F7A-B Set Powered - HO Scale - Santa Fe / Walthers HO Scale F7 Locomotive - Santa Fe

See Other Rock Island Items: Bachman HO Scale 2-6-0 Mogul Locomotive - Rock Island / Bachmann Spectrum 2-8-0 Consolidation HO Scale Locomotive - Rock Island

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Bachman HO Scale GP40 Locomotive With Dummy And Caboose - Santa Fe

Bachman HO Scale EMD GP40 Locomotive, Dummy and Caboose - Santa Fe


Product Description

This Santa Fe EMD GP40 Dual Locomotive Set is an HO Scale Model from Bachmann®. Suitable for Ages 8 & Older. FEATURES: Fully assembled with added weight for extra pulling power! The operating diesel locomotive is equipped with a precision can motor, 8-wheel worm gear drive and directional lighting. Each locomotive has a die cast chassis. Separate bearings. Blackened metal RP25 wheels. Body-mounted E-Z Mate® magnetic knuckle couplers. Separately applied handrails. Accurately molded GP40 plastic body shells prototypically painted blue and yellow with crisp pad printing: - Powered: 3518, Santa Fe, logo - Unpowered: 3514, Santa Fe, logo Accurately molded caboose body shell prototypically painted red with crisp yellow print: Santa Fe logo, ATSF 999628. INCLUDES: (1) Powered GP40 (1) Dummy GP40 (1) Caboose SPECS: Scale: HO 1:87 kr9/11/06

An EMD GP40 is a 4-axle diesel locomotive built by General Motors Electro-Motive Division between November 1965 and December 1971. Power was provided by an EMD 645E3 16-cylinder engine which generated 3000 horsepower (2.2 MW).

1,187 examples of this locomotive model were built for American railroads, 16 were built for Canadian railroads, and 18 were built for Mexican railroads. Various passenger versions were also built.

In 1972, the GP40 was discontinued and replaced by the GP40-2, which had an improved electrical system and a few minor exterior cosmetic changes.

Other HO Scale GP40 Locomotives: Athearn HO Scale GP40-2 Locomotive - Southern Pacific

Other Santa Fe Items: Lionel O Scale FT Locomotive - Dummy - Santa Fe /MTH HO Scale 2-10-0 Russian Decapod Locomotive - Santa Fe / Bachmann HO Scale Rail King Electric Train Set - Santa Fe / Athearn HO Scale EMD GP38-2 Locomotive - Santa Fe / Athearn HO Scale PS-2 Covered Hopper - Santa Fe / Athearn 50ft Ice Reefer Box Car - Santa Fe (Scout) / Athearn HO Scale Cupola Caboose - Santa Fe / Athearn HO Scale GP60M Locomotive - Santa Fe / Athearn Genesis F45 HO Scale Locomotive - Santa Fe / Bachmann 2-10-4 Texas HO Scale Locomotive - Santa Fe / Bachmann 4-8-4 Northern Locomotive - HO Scale - Santa Fe / Proto 2000 Diesel EMD F7A-B Set Powered - HO Scale - Santa Fe / Bachmann HO Scale FT Locomotive - Santa Fe / Walthers HO Scale F7 Locomotive - Santa Fe

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Lionel O Scale FT Locomotive - Dummy - Santa Fe

Lionel O Scale FT Locomotive - Dummy - Santa Fe

Product Description

This Santa Fe Non-powered FT Diesel features: Die-cast metal trucks, pilot, fuel tank Metal frame Engineer and fireman figures Gauge: Traditional O Gauge Dimensions: Length: 12 3/4? RailLine: Santa Fe Minimum Curve: O-27The Trainz SKU for this item is S11451256. Manufacturer: Lionel Model Number: 28905 Scale/Era: O Modern Model Type: Diesel Loco


The EMD FT was a 1,350-horsepower (1,010 kW) diesel-electric locomotive produced between November 1939, and November 1945, by General Motors' Electro-Motive Division (the "F" stood for "freight" and the "T" for 2,700 horsepower (2,000 kW) with a two-unit set). All told 555 cab-equipped A units were built, along with 541 cabless booster B units, for a grand total of 1,096 units. The locomotives were all sold to customers in the United States. It was the first model in EMD's very successful F-unit series of cab unit freight diesels, and was the locomotive that convinced many U.S. railroads that the diesel-electric freight locomotive was the future. Many rail historians consider the FT one of the most important locomotive models of all time.

FTs were generally marketed as semi-permanently coupled A-B sets (a lead unit and a cabless booster connected by a solid drawbar) making a single locomotive of 2,700 hp (2,000 kW). Many railroads used pairs of these sets back to back to make up a four-unit A-B-B-A locomotive rated at 5,400 hp (4,000 kW). Some railroads purchased semi-permanently coupled A-B-A three-unit sets of 4,050 hp (3,020 kW), while a few, like the Santa Fe, ordered all their FTs with regular couplers on both ends of each unit for added flexibility. All units in a consist could be run from one cab; multiple unit (MU) control systems linked the units together.

Other Lionel O Scale Products: Lionel O Scale 4-6-6-4 Challenger Locomotive - Rio Grande / Lionel O Scale Electric Train Set - B&O - Just In Time For Christmas! / Lionel O Scale Electric Train Set - Rio Grande Flyer- Just In Time For Christmas! / Lionel O Scale Electric Train Set - Polar Express - Just In Time For Christmas!

Other Santa Fe Items: MTH HO Scale 2-10-0 Russian Decapod Locomotive - Santa Fe / Bachmann HO Scale Rail King Electric Train Set - Santa Fe / Athearn HO Scale EMD GP38-2 Locomotive - Santa Fe / Athearn HO Scale PS-2 Covered Hopper - Santa Fe / Athearn 50ft Ice Reefer Box Car - Santa Fe (Scout) / Athearn HO Scale Cupola Caboose - Santa Fe / Athearn HO Scale GP60M Locomotive - Santa Fe / Athearn Genesis F45 HO Scale Locomotive - Santa Fe / Bachmann 2-10-4 Texas HO Scale Locomotive - Santa Fe / Bachmann 4-8-4 Northern Locomotive - HO Scale - Santa Fe / Proto 2000 Diesel EMD F7A-B Set Powered - HO Scale - Santa Fe / Bachmann HO Scale FT Locomotive - Santa Fe / Walthers HO Scale F7 Locomotive - Santa Fe

Monday, December 14, 2009

Athearn HO Scale SD40-2 Locomotive - Missouri Kansas & Texas

Athearn HO Ready To Run SD40-2 Locomotive with 88" Nose - MKT #629

Product Features

Fully assembled and ready to operate
Upgraded tooling
Separately applied wire grab irons
Separately applied air tanks
Celcon handrails


Product Description

Features / / * Fully assembled and ready to operate / * Upgraded tooling / * Separately applied wire grab irons / * Separately applied air tanks / * Celcon handrails / * DCC ready wiring harness installed / * Prototype specific details applied / * McHenry scale knuckle spring couplers installed / / Overview / / Prototype specific details that may be applied to this model: / / / / / / * Nose length / / * Grilles / / * Fans / / * Battery access doors / / * Exhaust stack / / * Bell / / * Anticlimbers and snowplow / / * Headlights / / * Fuel tank / / * Dynamic brakes / / * Electrical cabinet/Air Filter Box / / * Air Horn / / * Truck sideframes / / Specifications / / DCC: Ready / SOUND: No / PROTOTYPE MANUFACTURER: Electro Motive Division / COUPLER STYLE: McHenry Scale Knuckle / ERA: 1975 - Present / Minimum Age Recommendation: 14 years / Is Assembly Required: No

The Missouri–Kansas–Texas Railroad (reporting mark MKT) was incorporated May 23, 1870. In its earliest days the MKT was commonly referred to as "the K-T", which was its stock exchange symbol; this common designation soon evolved into "the Katy".

The Katy was the first railroad to enter Texas from the north. Eventually the Katy's core system would grow to link Kansas City and St. Louis, Missouri; Tulsa and Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Dallas, Fort Worth, Waco, Temple, Austin, San Antonio, Houston, and Galveston, Texas. An additional mainline between Fort Worth and Salina, Kansas, was added in the 1980s after the collapse of the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad; this line was operated as the Oklahoma, Kansas and Texas Railroad

The EMD SD40-2 is a 3,000 horsepower (2,240 kW) diesel-electric locomotive built by General Motors' Electro-Motive Division between January 1972 and February 1986; 3,957 examples were built, and every class 1 railroad in North America has operated this locomotive. Part of the EMD Dash 2 line, the SD40-2 was an upgraded SD40 with modular electronic control systems, HT-C trucks, and many other detail improvements. The SD40-2 is one of the best-selling diesel locomotive models of all time. BNSF, CSXT, Union Pacific and Canadian Pacific operate some of the largest fleets of the type.

The SD40-2 was not the most powerful locomotive type even when introduced; EMD's SD45 and SD45-2 delivered 3,600 hp (2,680 kW), as did GE Transportation Systems' U36B/C and MLW's M636. However, the SD40-2 was significantly more reliable and economical than the higher-powered units, the latter becoming increasingly important with the oil crises of the 1970s.

Just as the SD38, SD39, SD40, and SD45 shared a common frame, so too did the SD38-2, SD40-2, and SD45-2. It was 3 ft (0.91 m) longer than the previous models, giving an overall locomotive length of 68 ft 10 in (20.98 m) over the coupler pulling faces. The SD38-2 and SD40-2 shared the same basic superstructure, since they both used the same 16-645E3 engine (in naturally aspirated and turbocharged form respectively); the long hood was 18 inches (46 cm) longer than the SD38 and SD40, but since the increase in frame length was even greater, the SD38-2 and SD40-2 were left with even larger front and rear "porches" than the earlier models. These empty areas at front and rear are distinctive spotting features to identify the Dash 2 models of both units. The SD40-2 can be distinguished from the SD38-2 by having three roof-mounted radiator fans instead of two. Another distinguishing feature of the SD40-2 as compared to the SD40 is the SD40-2's trucks (HT-C truck), which have shock absorbers on the outside of middle axle. However, this is not true of the former Conrail SD40-2s. After a rash of derailments involving Amtrak SDP40F units that were equipped with HT-C trucks, Conrail ordered the SD40-2 units and several orders of SD50s with the older flexicoil trucks.

As of 2008, some SD45 units have been modified by replacing their 20 cylinder engine with the 16 cylinder removed from otherwise scrapped SD40-2 units. This was common practice for units owned by Union Pacific and possibly other owners. In many cases these are identified by the owner as SD40-2, SD40M-2 or some other such means. Confusion is created when what appears to be an SD45 is labeled as an SD40-2.

Also, some older SD40-2 units used in low-power modes such as yard switching or hump service have been de-turbocharged, resulting in the mechanical equivalent of a SD38-2. Units so modified may or may not be re-labeled.

There are several variations of the SD40-2. Such as the SD40T-2's (T for tunnel motor) bought by fallen flags: Southern Pacific, and Denver and Rio Grande Western; now operated by the Union Pacific Railroad. There is the SD40-2W (W for the 4-Window Safety Cab) bought and operated by the Canadian National railway. There were high-nosed versions of the SD40-2 bought by fallen flags: Norfolk & Western, & Southern Railway. These units are now operated by the Norfolk Southern Railway (Resulting merger of N&W and The Southern Railway). There are even some narrow gauge versions around the world called BB40-2's.

Three cabless SD40-2Bs were also rebuilt from standard SD40-2s by the Burlington Northern Railroad in the early 1980s. The units had been in collisions and it was decided that it would be more economical to rebuild them without cabs. Canadian Pacific also owns a few SD40-2Bs. These were created by welding metal plates over the cab windows of many of its ex-Norfolk Southern and some of its original SD40-2s.

Athearn HO Scale SD40 Locomotive - Pacific Harbor Line

Athearn HO Scale Ready To Run SD40 Locomotive - Pacific Harbor Line #71

Product Features

Fully assembled and ready to operate
Based on Rail Power tooling with many upgrades
Factory installed wire grab irons
Factory installed Celcon handrails
Detailed fuel tank with correct capacity


Product Description

Features / / * Fully assembled and ready to operate / * Based on Rail Power tooling with many upgrades / * Factory installed wire grab irons / * Factory installed Celcon handrails / * Detailed fuel tank with correct capacity / * See-through fans / * Available with and without dynamic brakes as appropriate (undecorated model includes both) / * DCC ready wiring harness installed / * Directional headlights / * Machined RP25 profile metal wheels / * McHenry scale knuckle spring couplers installed / / Specifications / / DCC: Ready / SOUND: No / PROTOTYPE MANUFACTURER: Electro Motive Division / COUPLER STYLE: McHenry Scale Knuckle / ERA: 1966 - Present / Minimum Age Recommendation: 14 years / Is Assembly Required: No

The Pacific Harbor Line (reporting mark PHL) was formed in 1998 to take over the Harbor Belt Line (HBL). In 1998, the Alameda Corridor was nearing completion, allowing a massive amount of railroad traffic from the largest harbors in the Western hemisphere: Port of Los Angeles and Port of Long Beach.

The railroad has 18 route miles with a web of 59 miles of track.

The PHL was formed to create a level playing field for shippers. Up to that time, the HBL was owned and operated by the major railroads in Los Angeles; the Southern Pacific, the Santa Fe Railway and the Union Pacific. The PHL, in contrast, is privately owned by the Anacostia & Pacific Company. It operates on tracks and facilities owned by the ports.

One of the problems with the HBL arrangement was that shipper could have problems getting their goods to or from the port depending on where an individual railroad's track ended.

The PHL hailed itself as a neutral switching railroad that could reliably serve shippers at this large port complex. PHL handles 40,000 carloads of freight a year excluding intermodal traffic.

PHL was the first railroad to have its locomotive fleet comprised of only Tier II and Tier III "clean diesel" locomotives.

Pacific Harbor Line was named the 2009 Shortline of the Year by Railway Age magazine.

Thursday, December 10, 2009

Athearn HO Scale AC4400 Locomotive - Chicago & North Western

Athearn HO Scale Ready To Run AC4400 Locomotive C&NW #8819

Product Features

Fully assembled and ready for your layout
Flush mounted individual window 'glass'
Factory installed Celcon handrails
Prototypically accurate horns
DCC ready wiring harness installed


Product Description

== Key Features == / / * Fully assembled and ready for your layout / * Flush mounted individual window 'glass' / * Factory installed Celcon handrails / * Prototypically accurate horns / * DCC ready wiring harness installed / * Directional headlights / * Machined RP25 profile metal wheels / * McHenry scale knuckle spring couplers installed / / == Specs == / / * DCC:Ready / * SOUND:No / * PROTOTYPE MANUFACTURER:General Electric / * COUPLER STYLE:McHenry scale knuckle / * RTR/KIT:Ready To Run / * ERA:1994 - Now / * MIN. RADIUS:18" / * Minimum Age Recommendation:14 years / * Is Assembly Required:No

The GE AC4400CW was a 4,400 horsepower diesel-electric locomotive built by GE Transportation Systems between 1993 and 2004. It is similar to the Dash 9-44CW but features AC traction motors instead of DC, with a separate inverter per motor. 2598 examples of this locomotive were produced for North American railroads. As a result of more stringent emissions requirements that came into effect in the United States on January 1, 2005, the AC4400CW has been replaced by the GE ES44AC.

As of 2005, every Class I railroad with the exception of Norfolk Southern and the Canadian National Railway, owns at least one AC4400CW. These units quickly gained a reputation as powerful freight haulers, especially in heavy-haul applications.

The AC4400CW was the first GE locomotive to offer an optional self-steering truck design, intended to increase adhesion and reduce wear on the railhead. This extra cost option was specified by Canadian Pacific, Cartier Mining, CSX, Ferromex, Ferrosur, and KCS.

CSX ordered many of its AC4400CW locomotives with 20,000 lbs. extra weight to increase tractive effort. These same units were also modified in 2006-2007 with a "high tractive effort" software upgrade. CSX has redesignated these modified units from CW44AC to CW44AH.

Other HO Scale AC4400 Locomotives: Athearn HO Scale GE AC4400 Locomotive - Union Pacific / Athearn HO Scale AC4400 Locomotive - Southern Pacific

Athearn HO Scale AC4400 Locomotive - Southern Pacific

Athearn HO Scale Ready To Run AC4400 Locomotive - Southern Pacific #352

Product Features

Fully assembled and ready for your layout
Flush mounted individual window 'glass'
Factory installed Celcon handrails
Prototypically accurate horns
DCC ready wiring harness installed


Product Description

== Key Features == / / * Fully assembled and ready for your layout / * Flush mounted individual window 'glass' / * Factory installed Celcon handrails / * Prototypically accurate horns / * DCC ready wiring harness installed / * Directional headlights / * Machined RP25 profile metal wheels / * McHenry scale knuckle spring couplers installed / / == Specs == / / * DCC:Ready / * SOUND:No / * PROTOTYPE MANUFACTURER:General Electric / * COUPLER STYLE:McHenry scale knuckle / * RTR/KIT:Ready To Run / * ERA:1994 - Now / * MIN. RADIUS:18" / * Minimum Age Recommendation:14 years / * Is Assembly Required:No

The GE AC4400CW was a 4,400 horsepower diesel-electric locomotive built by GE Transportation Systems between 1993 and 2004. It is similar to the Dash 9-44CW but features AC traction motors instead of DC, with a separate inverter per motor. 2598 examples of this locomotive were produced for North American railroads. As a result of more stringent emissions requirements that came into effect in the United States on January 1, 2005, the AC4400CW has been replaced by the GE ES44AC.

As of 2005, every Class I railroad with the exception of Norfolk Southern and the Canadian National Railway, owns at least one AC4400CW. These units quickly gained a reputation as powerful freight haulers, especially in heavy-haul applications.

The AC4400CW was the first GE locomotive to offer an optional self-steering truck design, intended to increase adhesion and reduce wear on the railhead. This extra cost option was specified by Canadian Pacific, Cartier Mining, CSX, Ferromex, Ferrosur, and KCS.

CSX ordered many of its AC4400CW locomotives with 20,000 lbs. extra weight to increase tractive effort. These same units were also modified in 2006-2007 with a "high tractive effort" software upgrade. CSX has redesignated these modified units from CW44AC to CW44AH.

Other HO Scale AC4400 Locomotives: Athearn HO Scale GE AC4400 Locomotive - Union Pacific

Other HO Scale Southern Pacific Items: MTH HO Scale GS-4 4-8-4 Locomotive - Southern Pacific/ Bachmann HO Scale 4-8-4 GS-4 Locomotive - American Freedom Train #4449 / Bachmann HO Scale 4-8-4 GS-4 Locomotive - Southern Pacific (War Baby) / Athearn HO Scale C44-9W Locomotive - Southern Pacific / Athearn HO Scale GP40-2 Locomotive - Southern Pacific / Athearn HO Scale Bay Window Caboose - Southern Pacific

Sunday, December 6, 2009

Athearn HO Scale GP50 Diesel Locomotive - Burlington Northern

Athearn HO Scale Ready To Run GP50 Locomotive - Burlington Northern / White Face #3107

Product Features

Fully assembled and ready to operate
Factory installed wire grab irons
Factory installed Celcon handrails
Super smooth drive train
Nickel plated, blackened machined wheels


Product Description

Features / / * Fully assembled and ready to operate / * Factory installed wire grab irons / * Factory installed Celcon handrails / * Super smooth drive train / * Nickel plated, blackened machined wheels / * McHenry scale knuckle spring couplers installed / / Specifications / / DCC: Not Ready / SOUND: No / PROTOTYPE MANUFACTURER: Electro Motive Division / COUPLER STYLE: McHenry Scale Knuckle / RTR/KIT: Ready to Run / ERA: 1980 - Present / Minimum Age Recommendation: 8 years / Is Assembly Required: No

EMD GP50 is a 4-axle diesel locomotive built by General Motors Electro-Motive Division (EMD). It is powered by a 16-cylinder EMD 645F3B diesel engine, which can produce between 3,500 and 3,600 horsepower. 278 examples of this locomotive were built by EMD between 1980 and 1985. A version of this locomotive called the GP50L was produced with an extended cab. The GP50 rides on the same frame as the EMD GP38, EMD GP38-2, EMD GP39, EMD GP39-2, EMD GP40 and EMD GP40-2, giving it an overall length of 59 feet 2 inches.

See Other Burlington Northern HO Scale Locomotives: Athearn HO Scale F7A Diesel Locomotive - Burlington Northern / Trainline EMD GP9M HO Scale Locomotive - Burlington Northern / Athearn HO Scale SD60M Locomotive - Burlington Northern / BNSF / Athearn HO Scale SD60M Locomotive - Burlington Northern Santa Fe

See Other HO Scale Burlington Northern Items: Intermountain Railway Company 40ft Box Car - Burlington Northern / Athearn HO Scale Cupola Caboose - Burlington Northern