
( Brand: Athearn ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: ATH88486 ), ( Gauge: Ho ), ( Type: Diesel Locomotive ), ( Material: Plastic ), ( Box: Original Box ), ( Control: Analog ), ( Couplers: Knuckle Style ), ( Dcc: Dcc Ready ), ( Grading: C-6 Very Good ), ( Lighting: Directional Lights ), ( Paint: Factory Painted ), ( Paperwork: Original Paperwork Included ), ( Power Supply: Dc ), ( Running Condition: Runs Well ), ( State Of Assembly: Ready To Go/pre-built ), ( Train Operating Company: Norfolk Southern ), ( Wheel Wear: Minor ), ( UPC: 797534884861 )
The Athearn Ath88486 HO Scale Norfolk Southern EMD SD38 Diesel Locomotive, specifically the NS 3811, is a remarkable addition to any model railroad collection. This meticulously crafted model replicates the real-world SD38 locomotive, a workhorse of the rail industry known for its power and reliability.
The Athearn Genesis series, to which this model belongs, is renowned for its outstanding level of detail and accurate representation. The NS 3811 is no exception. It features a finely detailed roadname-specific paint scheme, complete with authentic Norfolk Southern logos and markings, ensuring an authentic and immersive railroading experience.
The locomotive's die-cast underframe provides a solid foundation, while the separately applied photographic details on the truck sides, authentic windshield wipers, and multi-axle trucks add a level of realism that is hard to match. The NS 3811 also boasts precision-molded scale couplers and Accumate coupler boxes, ensuring a smooth and secure connection to other rolling stock in your model railroad layout.
Inside the locomotive, a powerful five-pole skew-wound motor drives the die-cast trucks, providing smooth and quiet operation. The cab interior is equally detailed, with a finely molded control stand, crew figures, and a die-cast alloy flywheel for realistic performance.
The Athearn Ath88486 HO Scale Norfolk Southern EMD SD38 Diesel Locomotive (NS 3811) is not just a model; it's a piece of railroading history that brings the power and majesty of the SD38 locomotive into your home. Whether you're a seasoned model railroader or a newcomer to the hobby, this locomotive is sure to impress with its attention to detail, realistic operation, and striking appearance. Add the NS 3811 to your collection and experience the thrill of railroading in the palm of your hand.
1. Accurate Detailing: The model is highly detailed and accurately represents the real-life SD38 locomotive, including the distinctive paint scheme and other specific features.
2. Authentic Sound: The ATH88486 comes with a factory-installed sound and operation system that reproduces the sounds of the actual SD38 engine.
3. Smooth Operating Mechanism: The locomotive features a five-pole skew-wound motor and a flywheel for smooth and consistent operation.
4. Durable Construction: The model is built to last, with die-cast metal trucks and a die-cast metal frame for added durability.
5. Variety of Lighting Options: The ATH88486 has directional lighting, including working headlights, marker lights, and cab lights.
**Cons:**1. Price: This model is on the higher end of the price range for HO scale locomotives, making it a more significant investment for hobbyists.
2. Assembly Required: Some assembly is required upon receipt, which may be a drawback for those who prefer ready-to-run models.
3. Size: At HO scale, the locomotive may appear smaller than expected when compared to other items in the collection.
**Conclusion:**The Athearn ATH88486 HO N Scale Norfolk Southern EMD SD38 Diesel Locomotive (3811) is an excellent choice for collectors and model railroad enthusiasts who value accuracy, sound quality, and smooth operation. Although it is more expensive than some other models and requires some assembly, the detailed, durable construction and authentic features make it a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize realism in their collection.
**Recommendation:**If you are looking for a high-quality, detailed HO scale diesel locomotive and are willing to invest in a model that offers authentic sounds and smooth operation, the Athearn ATH88486 HO N Scale Norfolk Southern EMD SD38 Diesel Locomotive (3811) is a recommended purchase. However, if you are on a tighter budget or prefer a more straightforward, ready-to-run model, you may want to consider other options within the HO scale diesel locomotive category.
Doug - model Train Market. Paperwork: Original Paperwork Included. Sound Status: None. Growing up, my grandfather and I worked together building our model railroad layout.
Lighting Features: Directional Lights. Packaging: Original Box. Running condition: Runs Well. Paint: Factory Painted.
Couplers: Knuckle Style. 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE. One of the rear lights is out - A detail on right side cab roof broken/detached, but included Rear railing loose, keeps getting partially detached, Cosmetic condition: C-6 Very Good. Material: Plastic.
DCC Manufacturer ID: n/a. DCC Status: Ready decoder not included. Wheel Wear: Minor Used a little.