10001809 Atlas Master HO GE Dash 8-40BW, Silver DC, Undecorated

10001809 Atlas Master HO GE Dash 8-40BW, Silver DC, Undecorated

Locomotive Features:

• Standard DC, but DCC Ready with NMRA Plugs


• Operating ditch lights (HO DASH 8-40BW/8-32BHW only)


• Realistic die-cast underframe


• Standard cab or gull wing cab as per the prototype (HO DASH 8-40BW/8-32BHW only)


• Five-pole skewed armature motor with dual flywheels for optimum performance at all speeds


• Directional lighting


• Factory-equipped with AccuMate® knuckle couplers


• Painted crew figures


• Separately-installed scale windshield wipers, metal grab irons and fine scale handrails


• Highly detailed coupler cut bars


• Multiple unit hoses and trainline hoses


• Snowplow


• Shock absorbers


• Piping on trucks

Prototype Overview:

Built in the late 1980s by GE, the DASH 8-40B diesel locomotives were identified by their dynamic brake gear located along the roof line between the cab and engine compartment, with ventilation provided by large roof-top grilles. These four-axle, high horsepower engines are still in service today in North America.

By the early 1990s the North American Cab had begun to replace the “standard” cab on regular production GE 4 and 6-axle locomotives. The only order for 4-axle Dash 8-40Bs with this new cab came from Santa Fe, and thus the Dash 8-40BW model was unique to that road. A total of 83 units total were built and many are still in service today for BNSF.

In 1991 Amtrak, faced with a motive power shortage, turned to GE for an order of 20 Dash 8-32BWH locomotives. This unique model was basically a Dash 8-32B locomotive equipped with a North American Cab and built on the longer Dash 8-40BW frame. Some additional modifications for passenger service were included. A total of 20 units were built and they are still in Amtrak service today.