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The Electro-Motive Division SD40-2 is one of the most recognisable icons of North American railroading, and this Bachmann HO scale model captures it in Union Pacific's classic colours: armour yellow, grey and red. The model carries road number #3450 and belongs to the DCC Sound Value range, meaning it comes out of the box with the SoundTraxx Econami 16-bit decoder already installed and ready to run.
Sound and digital system from day one
The SoundTraxx Econami Sound Value decoder reproduces the prime mover diesel engine, three types of air horns and a bell, all synchronised with the locomotive's movement. The system is compatible with NMRA DCC via the factory-fitted 8-pin socket, and also runs on traditional analogue DC layouts without any modifications. For those looking to expand functions down the line, the electronics are already in place.
Mechanics and exterior finish
The chassis is die-cast metal, giving the locomotive real weight and improving adhesion on the track. The precision motor with dual balanced flywheels distributes traction across all six axles, with blackened metal RP25 profile wheels suited to the most common HO track codes. E-Z Mate Mark II magnetic couplers make coupling and uncoupling straightforward during switching moves. On the outside, fine-scale handrails come factory-applied and Union Pacific graphics are printed in high definition. Headlights are directional and operational in both DCC and DC.
On the layout and in a consist
At 24.1 cm long with a minimum radius of 45.7 cm, this SD40-2 needs a reasonable amount of space to move comfortably, but fits well on medium-sized HO layouts. Leading a consist of North American freight wagons, the six axles and heavy chassis give it a presence on the track that is hard to miss: the train feels like it has real weight behind it. For anyone building a modern-era roster with American rolling stock, the UP #3450 adds visual and sonic continuity to the whole collection.