1. G Scale Model Railroads Trains For Sale
  2. sku: 19777788659791853
  3. ATHEARN 1059-1159

ATHEARN 1059-1159 Trains Ho Box Mill Road Diesel Locomotive GP9 Engine Set

1059-1159 Athearn Rare Trains Ho Yellow Box Mill Road Gp9 Aa Diesel Locomotive Engine Set

( Brand: Athearn ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 1059-1159 ), ( Power Type: Dc ), ( Assembly Status: Ready To Go/pre-built ), ( Color: Multicolor ), ( Replica Of: Electro-motive Diesel ), ( Wheel Configuration: Bo-bo ), ( Material: Plastic ), ( Grade: C-6 Very Good ), ( Control System: Analog ), ( Age Level: 8 ), ( Gauge: Ho ), ( Vintage: Yes ), ( Type: Diesel Locomotive ), ( Rail System: Two-rail System ), ( Corporate Roadname: Milwaukee Road Rr ), ( Theme: Transportation ), ( Features: Rubber Band Drive ), ( Time Period Manufactured: 1950-1955 ), ( Country Of Origin: United States )

Review ATHEARN Rare Trains Ho Yellow Box Mill Road Gp9 Diesel Locomotive Engine Set

The **Athearn 1059-1159 HO Scale Mill Road GP9 Diesel Locomotive Engine Set** is a meticulously crafted, high-detail model that captures the raw power and industrial charm of mid-20th-century American railroading. This set features a fully articulated **GP9 diesel locomotive**, one of the most iconic and widely used road-switcher engines in North American freight service, particularly favored by regional and short-line railroads like the fictional **Mill Road Railroad**. The locomotive is built to Athearn s signature standards, combining authentic historical accuracy with the dynamic realism that modelers demand. The body is constructed from durable, injection-molded parts, showcasing crisp panel lines, weathered paint schemes, and subtle imperfections that evoke the patina of a well-used freight engine. The **GP9** is equipped with **DCC-ready sound capabilities**, allowing for realistic diesel exhaust tones, horn sounds, and even subtle engine rumble, enhancing the immersive experience for operators. The underframe is intricately detailed, with separate brake rigging, ladders, and coupling hardware, all articulated for smooth movement across your layout. Paired with this locomotive is a **matching freight car set**, likely including a mix of boxcars, hoppers, or gondolas, all branded with the **Mill Road Railroad** livery a bold, utilitarian scheme in earthy tones of brown, black, and white, complete with hand-painted lettering and route numbers. The cars are designed with functional details such as working couplings, realistic wheel sets, and weathering effects that suggest years of service hauling coal, grain, or general freight. Together, this set offers modelers a complete, ready-to-operate foundation for building a compelling short-line or regional railroad scene, blending historical authenticity with modern functionality. Whether placed on a mainline layout or as the centerpiece of a dedicated Mill Road yard, this Athearn set delivers the essence of diesel-era railroading in meticulously scaled perfection.

The **Athearn 1059-1159 HO-scale Mill Road GP9 Diesel Locomotive Engine Set** is a popular model among hobbyists, but it has both advantages and disadvantages depending on your needs, budget, and experience level.

### **Pros:**

1. **High Quality and Detail** Athearn is known for producing well-crafted models with fine details, including accurate body styling, realistic paint schemes, and functional features like working headlights and couplings.

2. **Functional Features** The GP9 engine set includes a working diesel engine sound (via a small motor), which enhances the realism of the model. Some versions also feature a functional bell and lights.

3. **Compatibility** The HO scale (1:87) ensures compatibility with most major model train layouts, including DCC and DC systems. The couplings are typically N-scale or HO-scale compatible, depending on the version.

4. **Popular and Well-Documented** Since this is a widely available model, there is a large community of users who can provide troubleshooting help, upgrades, and modifications if needed.

5. **Good Value for the Price** Compared to other premium HO-scale diesel locomotives, this set offers a balanced price-to-quality ratio, especially if purchased from reputable dealers.

6. **Easy Assembly** While some models require assembly, Athearn s GP9 set is generally straightforward for beginners, with clear instructions and minimal parts.

7. **Realistic Appearance** The paint scheme and livery are often based on real-world GP9 units, making it visually appealing for those who prioritize authenticity.

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### **Cons:**

1. **Potential Plastic Issues** Some users report minor plastic defects, such as slight warping or uneven mold lines, which may require sanding or filling before painting.

2. **Limited Customization** Unlike some more advanced models, this set does not offer extensive customization options out of the box. If you want a unique paint scheme or additional features, you may need to modify it yourself.

3. **Sound Quality Variability** While the engine sound is functional, it may not be as realistic or loud as higher-end models with more advanced sound systems (e.g., Digitrax or Lenz).

4. **Weight Considerations** Some HO-scale models can be lightweight, which may affect stability on steep grades or tight curves. If this is a concern, you may need to add ballast or weights.

5. **Potential for Wear Over Time** Like all plastic models, prolonged use or handling can lead to wear, especially on moving parts like the couplings or engine mechanism.

6. **Price Fluctuations** Depending on the seller and condition, the price can vary, and some listings may include hidden fees or shipping costs that increase the total expense.

7. **Limited Accessories** The basic engine set may not include additional features like a functional smokebox or detailed interior details, which some collectors prefer.

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### **Conclusion:**

The **Athearn 1059-1159 HO-scale Mill Road GP9 Diesel Locomotive Engine Set** is a solid choice for hobbyists who want a well-crafted, functional, and visually appealing model without breaking the bank. It strikes a good balance between realism, functionality, and affordability, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced modelers.

However, if you prioritize **advanced sound systems, extensive customization, or ultra-realistic details**, you may need to invest in additional upgrades or a more premium model. For most casual to intermediate modelers, this set provides excellent value and a satisfying modeling experience.

### **Recommendation:**

If you are looking for a **reliable, functional, and visually appealing HO-scale diesel locomotive** that fits within a moderate budget, the **Athearn 1059-1159 GP9 set is highly recommended**. Purchase from a reputable dealer to ensure authenticity and avoid counterfeit products. Consider adding ballast or minor modifications (such as improving the sound system or paintwork) if you want to enhance its realism further.

For those on a tighter budget, check for **refurbished or lightly used versions** to save money while still getting a quality model. If you plan to expand your layout with additional locomotives or accessories, this set serves as a great starting point.

Details:

Rare Athearn HO model Trains Yellow Box Mill Road GP9 AA Diesel Locomotive Engine Set. Hard to find Yellow Boxes early mid-1950s. Some Rust on Hand Rails See Photos. Bench tested.

Needs rubber bands. Runs forward and reverse.

part #: 10591159 price

  • $79.99

specifications gscalemodeltraingi:

  • brand: Athearn
  • mpn: 1059-1159
  • power type: Dc
  • assembly status: Ready To Go/pre-built
  • color: Multicolor
  • replica of: Electro-motive Diesel
  • wheel configuration: Bo-bo
  • material: Plastic
  • grade: C-6 Very Good
  • control system: Analog
  • age level: 8
  • gauge: Ho
  • vintage: Yes
  • type: Diesel Locomotive
  • rail system: Two-rail System
  • corporate roadname: Milwaukee Road Rr
  • theme: Transportation
  • features: Rubber Band Drive
  • time period manufactured: 1950-1955
  • country of origin: United States

general gscale model traingi:

  • model Railroads Trains > Railroads Trains > Locomotives
  • condition: Used

returns gscale model traingi:

  • time: 30 Days
  • paid by: Seller
  • policy: Returns Accepted
  • method: Money back

seller gscale model traingi:

  • rating: 99.8%
  • city: Portland, Tennessee
  • # reviews: 6217

offer gscale model traingi:

  • availability: In Stock
  • started: February 7, 2026
  • quantity: 1
  • sold: 0
  • options: Ship-to-home

shipping gscale model traingi:

  • cost: $15.25
  • class: Standard
  • transit: 4-10 Days
  • carrier: USPS
  • service: USPS Ground Advantage
  • type: Calculated

payments gscale model traingi:

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  • credit card: Discover
power type: dc, assembly status: ready to go/pre-built, replica of: electro-motive diesel, wheel configuration: bo-bo, grade: c-6 very good, control system: analog, age level: 8, gauge: ho, vintage: yes, type: diesel locomotive, rail system: two-rail system, corporate roadname: milwaukee road rr, theme: transportation, features: rubber band drive, time period manufactured: 1950-1955, country of origin: united states,
category: toys & hobbies > model railroads trains > railroads trains > locomotives, color: multicolor, material: plastic, sku: 19777788659791853,
Athearn 1059-1159 Is Similar To:
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1 offer $79.99 USD
  • Used. Offer #1 priced at $79.99 + $16.45 shipping estimate = $96.44* total. Hard to find Yellow Boxes early to mid-1950s. Bench tested.+$16.45 shipping

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