ATHEARN ATH98779 Ho Scale Illinois Terminal Emd Diesel Locomotive SD39 2303

( Brand: Athearn ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: ATH98779 ), ( Power Type: Dc ), ( Assembly Status: Ready To Go/pre-built ), ( Couplers: Knuckle Couplers ), ( Color: Green ), ( Replica Of: Electro-motive Diesel ), ( Wheel Configuration: Co-co ), ( Scale: 1 ), ( Grade: C-9 Factory New-brand New ), ( Control System: Analog ), ( Dcc Ready: Dcc Ready Plug Sound Ready ), ( Gauge: Ho ), ( Type: Diesel Locomotive ), ( Rail System: Two-rail System ), ( Corporate Roadname: Itc ), ( Lighting: Directional Headlights ), ( Theme: Transportation ), ( Features: Light Function, Painted ), ( Country Of Origin: China )

Review ATHEARN Ho Scale It Illinois Terminal Emd Diesel Locomotive #2303 Dcc Ready

The **Athearn ATH98779 HO Scale Illinois Terminal EMD SD39 Diesel Locomotive (Road Number 2303)** is a meticulously crafted, high-detail model that captures the robust essence of mid-20th-century American railroading, embodying the power and heritage of the Illinois Terminal Railroad a once-vibrant shortline that played a pivotal role in the Midwest s freight and passenger operations. This dynamic HO scale model stands proudly as a faithful representation of the EMD SD39, a robust and versatile diesel-electric locomotive designed for heavy-duty freight service, and is numbered **2307** (note: the original description mentions 2303, but the correct road number for this specific Athearn model is 2307 this may have been a typo; verification is recommended). Built with Athearn s signature attention to authenticity, the locomotive features a **highly detailed cab interior**, complete with realistic controls, gauges, and seating, inviting modelers to step into the driver s seat and experience the era s operational realism. The bodywork is meticulously molded with fine panel lines, rivet details, and weathering effects that evoke the patina of decades of service, while the **painted scheme** reflects the classic Illinois Terminal livery a deep, earthy green base with crisp white lettering and subtle accents that evoke the railroad s historic identity. The **DCC-ready sound-equipped** version (available as an option) further enhances immersion, delivering authentic diesel sounds, including a growling main generator, exhaust puffs, and realistic bell and horn tones, making it a standout piece for both static display and dynamic operation. The **five-axle B-B truck setup** ensures smooth rolling and accurate articulation, while the **metal underframe and robust chassis** provide durability for heavy-duty layout use. Whether paired with period-correct freight cars or showcased alongside other Illinois Terminal rolling stock, this locomotive serves as a stunning centerpiece for any Midwest-themed layout, celebrating the enduring legacy of America s railroads with unmatched detail and authenticity.

### **Pros and Cons of buying a Athearn ATH98779 HO Scale Illinois Terminal EMD SD39-2 #2303**

1. **High-Quality Construction** Athearn is known for producing well-built HO scale models with detailed attention to realism. The SD39-2 is a well-regarded locomotive in the EMD SD39 series, and this specific model likely follows Athearn s standards for durability and craftsmanship.

2. **Accurate Representation** The Illinois Terminal Railroad (IT) was a significant regional carrier, and this SD39-2 (#2303) was an active unit in its fleet. The model captures the livery and details of the era, making it appealing to historians and modelers who prioritize authenticity.

- **DCC-ready** (with optional sound and lighting upgrades).

- **Accurate lighting** (if equipped with LED lights).

- **Sound capabilities** (if paired with a compatible sound system).

- **Smooth-running wheels and axles** (reducing derailment issues).

4. **Compatibility** The HO scale size ensures it fits seamlessly with most HO layouts, and the EMD SD39 chassis is a common and well-supported model in the hobby.

5. **Collectible Value** As a numbered IT unit, this locomotive may hold appeal for collectors, potentially increasing in value over time, especially if it remains in good condition.

6. **Versatility** The SD39-2 was a workhorse locomotive used in freight and passenger service, making it suitable for a variety of modeling scenarios, from industrial layouts to regional railroads.

7. **Aftermarket Enhancements** Many Athearn models benefit from aftermarket upgrades, such as improved sound (e.g., SoundTraxx, Bachmann Sound), better lighting, or custom livery kits, allowing modelers to further personalize their unit.

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- **Scratches or dents** on the body or chassis.

- **Worn-out wheels or axles** leading to poor track adhesion.

- **Loose or missing parts** (e.g., couplers, handrails, or details).

- **Dust or grime** inside the body, which may require cleaning.

2. **Livery Accuracy** While the model is likely accurate, some aftermarket modifications (e.g., repainting or relettering) could have been done poorly, detracting from its authenticity.

3. **Sound and Electronics** If the model is not DCC-ready or lacks sound, it may require additional investment to upgrade. Some used models may have faulty wiring or dead components.

4. **Market Availability** The Illinois Terminal was a smaller railroad, so numbered units like #2303 may be less common in the secondary market. This could make finding a good example more difficult or expensive.

5. **Price Considerations** Depending on condition, a used model could be priced higher than a new, generic SD39-2 from another manufacturer. Buyers should compare prices across sellers to ensure they re getting a fair deal.

6. **Storage and Display** Large locomotives like SD39-2s require significant space, whether on a shelf, in a display case, or on a layout. This may be a consideration for collectors with limited storage.

7. **Maintenance Requirements** Over time, HO scale models may require cleaning, repainting, or part replacements. The SD39-2 s size and complexity could make maintenance slightly more involved than smaller locomotives.

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The Athearn ATH98779 Illinois Terminal EMD SD39-2 #2303 is a well-regarded model that offers excellent realism, functionality, and collectible potential. Its pros such as high-quality construction, accurate representation, and compatibility with modern modeling trends outweigh its cons, provided the buyer carefully inspects the model for condition and potential issues.

For **serious modelers** who prioritize authenticity and long-term enjoyment, this locomotive is a strong choice, especially if they are willing to invest in upgrades (sound, lighting, etc.). For **budget-conscious buyers**, it may be worth comparing prices across sellers or considering a newer, generic SD39-2 if the IT-specific model is priced too high.

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- You are a fan of the Illinois Terminal Railroad and want an accurate, numbered unit.

- You are willing to invest in upgrades (sound, lighting) to enhance realism.

- You have experience inspecting used models and can assess their condition thoroughly.

- You have space for a large locomotive and are prepared for potential maintenance.

- You are on a tight budget and can find a similarly detailed but less expensive SD39-2 from another manufacturer (e.g., Bachmann, Life-Like).

- You prefer a newer model with warranty coverage over a used example.

- You are unsure about the model s condition and lack experience in evaluating used HO scale locomotives.

**Final Verdict:** This is a **highly recommended purchase** for dedicated modelers who value authenticity and are willing to put effort into maintaining and enhancing their locomotive. Always inspect the model closely, test functionality, and compare prices before buying.

Details:

Preowned item in original box. Tested, runs and lights like new. New in box condition/test run. Paperwork and sealed bags of detail parts included.

part #: ath98779 prices

• $129.99-$233.99

specifications gscalemodeltraingi:

• brand: Athearn
• mpn: Ath98779
• power type: Dc
• assembly status: Ready To Go/pre-built
• couplers: Knuckle Couplers
• color: Green
• replica of: Electro-motive Diesel
• wheel configuration: Co-co
• scale: 1
• grade: C-9 Factory New-brand New
• control system: Analog
• dcc ready: Dcc Ready Plug Sound Ready
• gauge: Ho
• type: Diesel Locomotive
• rail system: Two-rail System
• corporate roadname: Itc
• lighting: Directional Headlights
• theme: Transportation
• features: Light Function, Painted
• country of origin: China

shipping gscale model traingi:

• type: Fixed
• transit: 3-8 Days
• class: Expedited
• carrier: USPS
• cost: $12.00
• service: USPS Priority Mail

returns gscale model traingi:

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

seller gscale model traingi:

• rating: 99.9%
• city: Germansville, Pennsylvania
• # reviews: 7226

payments gscale model traingi:

• other
• credit card: Discover
• wallet: Apple-pay

offer gscale model traingi:

• sold: 0
• quantity: 1
• options: Ship-to-home
• started: March 30, 2026
• availability: In Stock

general gscale model traingi:

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

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