A sample of the Rapido Trains HO scale RS18u diesel locomotive recently arrived at our offices. Join Model Railroader Senior Editor as he takes a closer look at CP Rail No. 1826. He’ll point out features on the model, demonstrate some of the sound and light functions, and use the locomotive to power a short train on our Milwaukee, Racine & Troy staff layout. In addition, Cody provides a brief prototype history of CP Rail 1826.
Road names offered on the Rapido Trains HO scale RS18u include CP Rail (Action Red, with and without Multimark in five road numbers each), Bath & Hammondsport (black and yellow, one number), Minnesota Commercial (red and black, two numbers), New Brunswick East Coast (CP Rail patchout, two numbers), Ontario Southland (maroon and cream, three numbers), Ottawa Central (black and yellow, three numbers), and Western New York & Pennsylvania (black and yellow, one number). An undecorated model is also available.
The HO scale RS18u features an all-new drive system and a redesigned chassis and shell. Additional details include operating headlights, rear lights, and ditch lights; metal side handrails with plastic stanchions; and fully operating tri-color class lights on the front and rear. The four-axle diesel has road-number-specific details, including correct battery box louvers; a detailed cab interior with an illuminated control stand, operators seats, and back wall panels; and underframe detail, including traction motor cables, piping, and a re-reailer.
Models with an ESU LokSound V5 sound decoder are priced at $335. Direct-current models with a 21-pin plug sell for $225.
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.
