Trackside  “Tid-Bits”  Product Review

Buy Kato Locomotives

The SD40-2 is known by railfans and modelers alike as the all time champ of mass produced locomotives.  The SD40-2 exceeded the earlier champs like the GP9 and F7.  Kato of Japan has introduced an HO-Scale model of this unit which is “unofficially” known as the Phase 2 car body version.  These were built during the years between 1977 to 1983.

Among the prototypes distinguishing features are the massive anti-climber over the front plow, the 88” front nose, and the corrugated rear radiators.

In reproducing the model Kato has done an excellent job of capturing the angular lines of the prototype.

There are several additional features of note on this loco.  The built in speaker opening on the bottom of the fuel tank and an internal wire way make this unit "sound friendly" for an aftermarket sound decoder installation.

The unit includes directional headlights, and ditch lights that function by being switched between alternating and constant lighting while on DC operation.  There is also an NMRA 8-pin socket for easy conversion to DCC and the user will have control of the ditch lights via the DCC system throttle function keys. 

Additional features from Kato these days are the factory installed grabs and handrails. 

The drive train is of classic Kato quality.  Smooth operation was observed on a code 83 track mainline and yard with both #4 and #6 turnouts.  It will be equally at home as well on code 100 track.  The unit weighs just a little over a pound and will pull at least 18 cars on level track.  The paint job reproduction and lettering were very nicely done with extremely crisp and opaque lettering.

Kato has produced a much needed version of an extremely important modern day prototype. This unit should prove popular with operators of contemporary power.

The MSRP of the unit is $179.00.  Road names are Burlington Northern "Whiteface" and Canadian National.

Buy Kato Locomotives