
( Brand: Athearn ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 79695 ), ( Power Type: Dc ), ( Type: Locomotive ), ( Assembly Status: Ready To Go/pre-built ), ( Corporate Roadname: Alaska Railroad ), ( Color: Black ), ( Features: Dcc Fitted, Light Function ), ( Scale: 1 ), ( Gauge: Ho )
The Athearn Genesis Series GP40-2 Alaska Railroad 3009 HO Scale Locomotive is a meticulously crafted and highly detailed model that is sure to captivate any rail enthusiast. This locomotive is a faithful replica of the iconic GP40-2 engines that were once a common sight on the rails of the Alaska Railroad.
The Athearn 79695 GP40-2 features a powerful EMD 16-645E3 prime mover, which is capable of delivering an impressive 3,600 horsepower. The locomotive's body is constructed from die-cast metal and includes a highly detailed paint scheme that accurately reflects the Alaska Railroad's distinctive livery. The model also features prototypically correct handrails, ladders, and other exterior details that add to its authenticity.
The Athearn Genesis Series GP40-2 is equipped with a DCC-ready, five-pole skew-wound motor that delivers smooth and quiet operation. The locomotive also features directional lighting, operating headlights, and a realistic die-cast metal knuckle coupler that allows for easy connection to other HO scale trains.
Inside the locomotive, you'll find a highly detailed and accurate cab that includes a detailed controls panel, realistic crew figures, and prototypically correct details such as knobs, levers, and switches. The locomotive's interior is also illuminated with operating dashboard lights, adding to its realism.
The Athearn 79695 GP40-2 Alaska Railroad 3009 is a must-have for any HO scale railroad collection. With its powerful engine, prototypically correct details, and smooth operation, this model is sure to provide hours of enjoyment and satisfaction for rail enthusiasts of all ages. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned collector, this locomotive is sure to impress with its exceptional quality and attention to detail.
Pros of buying a Athearn 79695 GP40-2 Alaska 3009 HO locomotive:1. Detailed and accurate model: The Athearn 79695 is a highly detailed and accurate representation of the GP40-2 locomotive used by the Alaska Railroad. It features authentic paint schemes, logos, and markings, as well as finely sculpted details such as handrails, steps, and coupler cut levers.
2. DCC-Ready: The locomotive is DCC-Ready, which means it is equipped with a decoder socket that allows it to be easily upgraded to Digital Command Control (DCC) for improved speed, direction, and function control.
3. Smooth and quiet operation: The locomotive is powered by a five-pole motor that delivers smooth and quiet operation, making it a pleasure to run on your HO layout.
4. Prototypically accurate sounds: The locomotive comes with prototypically accurate sounds, including engine starts, stops, and horns, which add realism to your HO layout.
Cons of buying a Athearn 79695 GP40-2 Alaska 3009 HO locomotive:1. Price: The Athearn 79695 is not an inexpensive locomotive, and the price may be prohibitive for some model railroaders.
2. Requires a DCC system: While the locomotive is DCC-Ready, it requires a DCC system to take full advantage of its capabilities. This can add to the cost of purchasing and setting up an HO layout.
3. May be too detailed for some: Some model railroaders prefer simpler and less detailed locomotives, and the Athearn 79695 may be too detailed for their tastes.
Conclusion:The Athearn 79695 GP40-2 Alaska 3009 HO locomotive is a highly detailed and accurate representation of the GP40-2 locomotive used by the Alaska Railroad. It features prototypically accurate sounds, smooth and quiet operation, and is DCC-Ready, making it a great choice for model railroaders who want a realistic and high-performing locomotive for their HO layout. However, its price and requirement for a DCC system may be prohibitive for some, and it may be too detailed for others. Ultimately, whether or not the Athearn 79695 is the right choice for your HO layout depends on your budget, preferences, and the overall theme and style of your layout.
Recommendation:If you are looking for a highly detailed and accurate locomotive for your HO layout, the Athearn 79695 GP40-2 Alaska 3009 is a great choice. Its prototypically accurate sounds, smooth operation, and DCC-Ready capabilities make it a standout in its class. However, be sure to consider the cost and whether a DCC system is within your budget before making a purchase. If you are unsure, it may be helpful to research and compare other GP40-2 locomotives to find the one that best fits your needs and budget.
The model features DCC Digital Command Control capability and working lights. It is a DC-powered locomotive that ready to go out of the box. This is in the wrong box. The locomotive is intricately detailed and designed for model railroads in the HO scale.