Broadway Limited BLI-7952, N Scale EMD SD40-2, Paragon4 Sound & DCC, BN Spirit of '76 #1876

Model Features:

• Paragon4 Sound & Control System featuring ROLLING THUNDER


• Integral Dual-Mode Decoder with Back EMF for Superb Slow Speed Operation in DC and DCC


• Precision Drive Mechanism Engineered for Heavy Towing and Smooth Slow Speed Operation


• All Wheel Electrical Pick-up


• ABS Plastic Body with Die Cast Chassis for Maximum Tractive Effort


• Premium Caliber Painting


• Prototypically Accurate Paint Schemes and Road Numbers


• Many Separately Applied Details such as Handrails, Grab Irons, Horn, Bell, and Cut Levers


• Prototypical Light Operation with Separately Controllable Headlight, Rear Light, and Ditch Lights


• Prototypically Accurate Sounds for an EMD SD40-2 Locomotive


• Microtrains-compatible Couplers (2)


• Will Operate on Code 55, Code 70, and Code 80 Rail


• Minimum Operating Radius:  9 inches

Paragon4 Sound & Control System Features:

• Operates in DC & DCC with improved DC speed control (use DCMaster for DC Sound)


• Built-In extra capacitance to navigate imperfect track


• Pro Lighting Mode offers individual control of all lights on model


• Switcher Mode for precise low speed control


• Record & Play Operation - Records and plays back sounds and movements once or repeatedly for automatic operation


• High Resolution Audio


• Quillable Horn for various whistle lengths and patterns


• Choice of 3 selectable Horns


• Alternate Whistle / Horn where applicable for locomotive with air horn and steam whistle - both the main whistle and alternate can be easily played


• Adjustable bell ringing interval for faster or slower bell


• Numerous user-mappable functions with available keys


• Multiple realistic passenger and crew sounds play on command


• Grade Crossing Automatic Signal


• Automatic Forward / Reverse Signal


• Prime Mover sound intensity varies with load


• Individually adjustable sound volumes for each effect


• EZ Reset Button for quick return to factory default settings

Prototype Overview:

Introduced by EMD in January 1972, the SD40-2 is one of the most popular diesel locomotives of all time.  Between 1972 and 1989, EMD built nearly 4,000 units.   These 3,000 horsepower machines were found to be more reliable than higher horsepower locomotives, and the SD40-2 became the standard of the industry for several decades.   

The SD40-2 shares a common frame with the SD38-2 and the SD45-2.  The frame was lengthened to accommodate the new HT-C trucks, which were 1.5 feet longer than the Flexicoil truck found on the SD40's.   With a longer frame, but similar sized long hoods, the SD40-2's have distinctive "porches" on either end.   These empty areas are good spotting features for SD38-2 and SD40-2 locomotives.   The SD40-2 can be further distinguished from the SD38-2 by its three roof-mounted radiator fans and a single large exhaust stack.  

There are several variations of SD40-2 in service.   In our 2023 production, BLI is modeling the original standard SD40-2.   They are offering models in eleven prototypical paint schemes.   Each model is equipped with their Paragon4 DC/DCC Sound & Control System.  In addition to the Paragon4 series models, we also offer one road number in each paint scheme in our Stealth Series - these models are No-Sound / DCC-Ready.