The Atlas N scale Alco S4 diesel locomotive recently paid a visit to our N scale Milwaukee, Racine & Troy State Line Route layout. Join Model Railroader senior editor Cody Grivno and associate editor Bryson Sleppy as they discuss the features on this newly tooled model, demonstrate some of the sound and light functions, and switch cars in the yard.
The sample we received is decorated in Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe’s blue-and-yellow pinstripe paint scheme, adopted by the railroad in 1960. Other road names on the Atlas N scale S4 diesel locomotive include Baltimore & Ohio (blue and yellow), Boston & Maine (black, red, and white), CP Rail (Action Red with Multimark herald), Grand Trunk Western (black and red), Pennsylvania RR (Dark Green Locomotive Enamel), and Southern Pacific (black and orange). Each paint scheme is offered in two road numbers. The model is also available undecorated with vertical shutters.
Features on the end-cab switcher include a die-cast metal hood and chassis; separate, factory-applied uncoupling levers, locomotive pipes, and train line hoses; and plastic and formed wire handrails. Additional details include directional light-emitting-diode headlights, a riveted or welded cab as appropriate, and vertical or horizontal shutters to match the prototype. The S4 diesel has AAR Type A trucks and body-mounted Accumate plastic knuckle couplers.
Direct-current models are priced at $134.95. Versions with a dual-mode ESU LokSound V5 sound decoder sell for $244.95. Subtract $10 for undecorated models.
Trains.com Product Review videos showcase the latest new items from manufacturers of products in Z, N, HO, S, O, and large scales. In the videos, you can watch locomotives in action, take a close-up look at details on freight cars, see kit components, and much more.
If you are a manufacturer and have products you would like reviewed, please email senior editor Cody Grivno at cgrivno@kalmbach.com for more information.
