In January of 1972, EMD launched their new “Dash-2” series of locomotives. Bucking the inclination to increase horsepower output in the “horsepower wars” that previously defined the US diesel locomotive marketplace, the primary objectives of the new Dash-2 line instead were to increase reliability and ease of maintenance. Notable changes included modular electrical components that promised shorter downtime for repairs, new truck designs and numerous other incremental improvements. The SD40-2 from this “Dash-2” product line became EMD’s greatest success of all time, with nearly 4,000 units built by the mid-1980s.
Echoing its HO scale release, ScaleTrains is now shipping all-new EMD SD40-2s for N scale as part of its premium Rivet Counter product line. Each locomotive features road-specific and unit-specific details and lettering, including 81” high and low noses, 88” low noses and 123” “snoot” nose lengths where appropriate, see-through dynamic and radiator fan assemblies, separately applied grab irons and windshield wipers, full underbody details including the frame rail with separate air filters, plumbing and traction motor cables, accompanied with a precision drive system with all wheels powered and directional LED headlights.
N scale SD40-2s now in stock include specific groups of SD40-2s for the Burlington Northern, Southern Railway, Chessie System/B&O, Union Pacific and modern variations including Admiral-cab equipped SD40-2s for Norfolk Southern, and CSX SD40-3s equipped with the “Spongebob”-style cab and nose supplied by NRE.
ScaleTrains’ model of Burlington Northern 7035 represents one of two groups of SD40-2s (7029-7048 and 8010-8029) delivered to the BN in 1978. These models feature a traditional “turbo” exhaust stack, large front anticlimber, 88-inch short hood, tread plate detail, a detailed cab interior, standard-range dynamic brake blisters, a low pilot plow, separately applied grab irons and much more.
Expected in September 2024 are the second production of N scale RivetCounter SD40-2s covering Conrail (multiple versions), Santa Fe (Snoot nose), Chicago & North Western (both old yellow and Zito Yellow), Milwaukee Road (Billboard lettering), Norfolk & Western (both “NW” and later Claytor lettering), and EMD lease units in both ex-Milwaukee patch and blue/white schemes.
DC+DCC+Sound equipped N scale Rivet Counter SD40-2s equipped with ESU Loksound 5 decoders begin at $249.99 MSRP, while DC/DCC-ready silent engines are $149.99 each. Multiple road numbers where appropriate per paint scheme.
ScaleTrains, 4901 Old Tasso Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37312; 844-987-2467; www.scaletrains.com
