AMTRAK’S GO-TO DIESEL: Lionel is releasing its first model of the venerable Amtrak F40PH diesel. Several hundred of the locomotives dominated Amtrak and commuter trains for more than 20 years, and many are still in service with second or third owners. The O gauge model will be available in Amtrak Phase I, II, or III paint schemes with correct phase detailing for $549.99. Lionel also offers the unpowered Phase III cabbage/baggage control (“Cabbage”) cars (motorless F40s used to run a train in the reverse direction). These O gauge models will feature the side baggage door and a sound system and cost $399.99 each. All versions require O-54 curves. For more information, see your Lionel retailer or go to www.lionel.com for more information.
THE STAR TREATMENT: Every train town needs an entertainment hot spot, and the latest O gauge Built-&-Ready structure from Woodland Scenics might be just what your city needs. The no. BR 5854 Theater is fully assembled and decorated and features a weathered stucco-over-brick exterior, window treatments, and simulated carved wood trim. The structure has a printed first-floor interior and four warm white LEDs for the marquee, an illuminated ticket booth, and two interior lights. The building costs $169.99. For more information, see your hobby retailer or go to www.woodlandscenics.com for more information.
HEED THE NEED FOR FEED: Cows and chickens need their food, and corn has to start somewhere. Menards now offers the no. 2793389 Chippewa Valley Farm Supply building. The O gauge structure has an elevated loading dock with two doors, an office, and a ground-level delivery door. Detailing includes a decorated base, exterior illumination, and a slowly rotating exhaust fan. The model has worker figures and, of course, Jack the German Shepherd. The structure’s footprint is approximately 12½ by 9 inches. The building costs $69.99; shipping is extra, but you may opt for free shipping to your local Menards store. For more information, order online at www.menards.com.
BLUE STREAKS: Two wildly different railroads are highlighted in the latest group of O gauge boxcars from Menards. The nos. 2793067 Chesapeake & Ohio boxcar is priced at $19.99 – or get four different car numbers in the no. 2793482 set for $69.96. Also offered is the no. 2793066 Alaska RR boxcar for $19.99. The cars have opening doors and die-cast metal trucks and couplers, and are individually numbered. Order online at www.menards.com. Shipping is extra, but you may opt for free shipping to your local Menards store.
Interesting how Lionel put the 70’s era safety grills on the windshields of the F40PH.