
( Brand: Athearn ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: ATH29323 ), ( Part Type: Ho )
The Athearn HO Scale RTR GP38-2 UP 535 is a masterful piece of craftsmanship that will surely captivate any model railroad enthusiast. This detailed and highly realistic locomotive is designed to perfectly replicate the iconic GP38-2 engine, which was widely used by Union Pacific Railroad (UP) and several other railroads in North America.
The Athearn HO Scale RTR GP38-2 UP 535 boasts a die-cast metal chassis, ensuring durability and stability on your model railroad layout. The chassis is equipped with all-wheel drive and electrical pickup, ensuring smooth operation and consistent power distribution. The locomotive features independently-applied trucks with metal wheels and axles, providing improved traction and realism.
The model's exterior is meticulously detailed with authentic UP paint scheme and markings, including the distinctive "Salt Lake" herald on the cab side. The locomotive's body is crafted from injection-molded plastic and features separately applied metal handrails, coupler boxes, and grab irons, adding to its overall realism. The model also features operating headlights, tail lights, and ditch lights, providing an extra level of detail and authenticity.
The Athearn HO Scale RTR GP38-2 UP 535 is equipped with a realistic and powerful five-pole skew-wound motor, delivering smooth and quiet operation. The locomotive also features a realistic digital decoder, allowing for multiple functions such as directional lighting, sound effects, and variable speed control. The model's sound system includes authentic diesel engine noises, chuffing, and horns, further enhancing the realism and immersion.
In summary, the Athearn HO Scale RTR GP38-2 UP 535 is a stunning and highly detailed model locomotive that will make a fantastic addition to any HO scale railroad layout. Its die-cast metal chassis, all-wheel drive, and independently-applied trucks ensure smooth and reliable operation, while its meticulous exterior detailing and realistic sound system bring the model to life. This is a must-have for any UP or GP38-2 fan, or anyone looking to add a powerful and versatile locomotive to their collection.
Pros of buying a Athearn HO RTR GP38-2 UP 535:1. Detailed Model: The Athearn GP38-2 is a highly detailed model, with features such as directional lighting, realistic cab interior, and operating diesel engine sounds.
2. Authentic Paint Scheme: The UP 538-2 paint scheme is accurate and well-executed, capturing the look of the actual Union Pacific locomotive.
3. Easy to Operate: The locomotive is ready-to-run (RTR), meaning it comes fully assembled and requires no painting or additional wiring. This makes it easy for beginners to operate.
4. Powerful Motor: The locomotive is equipped with a powerful motor that can pull multiple cars with ease.
5. Excellent Value for Money: Compared to other locomotives in its class, the Athearn GP38-2 is a good value for money, offering a high level of detail and performance at a reasonable price.
Cons of buying a Athearn HO RTR GP38-2 UP 535:1. Limited Functionality: While the locomotive is a detailed and impressive model, it does not have the same level of functionality as some more expensive models. For example, it does not have DCC capabilities, meaning it cannot be controlled using digital command control systems.
2. Limited Sound Options: While the locomotive does have operating diesel engine sounds, the options are limited compared to more advanced models.
3. Sensitive to Electrical Issues: The locomotive is sensitive to electrical issues, such as shorts and loose connections, which can cause it to malfunction. This means that regular maintenance is necessary to ensure it continues to run smoothly.
In conclusion, the Athearn HO RTR GP38-2 UP 535 is a great option for beginners and hobbyists looking for a detailed and easy-to-operate locomotive. It offers a good value for money and captures the look of the actual Union Pacific locomotive well. However, its limited functionality and sensitivity to electrical issues may be a drawback for more experienced modelers. Ultimately, whether or not this locomotive is right for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences as a modeler. I would recommend considering the pros and cons carefully before making a purchase decision.
Athearn - ho rtr GP38-2, up 535: dynamic brake chicken wire grilles 3,600 gallon fuel tank Bloomsburg-m trucks scale width hood fully-assembled and ready-to-run out of the box road name specific details painted printed for realistic highly detailed, injection molded body see-through cab windows radiator fans if applicable separately-applied horn grab irons Ceylon handrails appearance frame-mounted bell bi-directional constant lighting so headlight brightness remains consistent incandescent bulbs McHenry operating knuckle couplets all-wheel drive with precision gears smooth quiet operation heavy die-cast frame greater traction more pulling power electrical pickup provides reliable current flow 5-pole skew wound motor precision-machined flywheels multi-link train trouble free wheels rp25 contours operate on code 70, 75, 83, 100 rail window packaging easy viewing, plus interior plastic blister safely holds model convenient storage replacement parts available including brushes minimum radius: 18 specifications CDC: no sound: prototype manufacturer: elector motive division couplet style: era: present age recommendation: 14 years is assembly required: product info: brand: mfg item number: ATH29323 msrp: 99. 98 scale: ho classification: Athearn scale diesels.