The Atlas 10003450 U23B Conrail Express in HO scale, RBMN #2395 Gold DCC & Sound version (picture might show a different road number), is a remarkable model train. Powered by a V12 FDL prime mover, the 2250 h.p. U23B was GE's mid - sized four - axle road - switcher from the late 1960s to mid - 1970s, competing with the successful EMD GP38. In 10 years of production (1968 - 1977), 481 units were made, making it the second - best seller of GE's 'Universal Series' locomotives. Many major railroads like CSX predecessors, Penn Central, Santa Fe, and Missouri Pacific had sizeable fleets. The U23B has distinct features such as a stepped - out radiator section and two sets of three tall engine access doors near the long hood center. Our model comes with appropriate truck side frames according to the road name. Today, only a few active U23Bs remain in North America's short lines and regional railroads. This model is packed with features. It includes a snow plow when suitable for the road name. Separately - applied scale detail parts like windshield wipers, metal grab irons, and fine - scale handrails enhance its realism. A five - pole skewed armature motor with dual flywheels ensures smooth performance at all speeds. Directional lighting with golden - white LEDs and blackened metal wheels add to its charm. The Gold Series sound features are great for DCC operation, supporting all programming modes, having flexible function key mapping, and following NMRA DCC standards. It can also work in analog (DC) operation with the LokSound Select Dual - Mode decoder, though there are some limitations. Over 20 sound effects, user - selectable horns, bells, and brake squeals, along with manual and automatic notching modes, bring true realism to your model train experience. The AccuMate® couplers are licensed from AccuRail, Inc.

Using your Atlas 10003450 U23B Conrail Express model train is easy. If you're using DCC operation, just connect it to your DCC layout. You can program functions using the flexible mapping of function keys F0 to F28. For analog (DC) operation, you can use the LokSound Select Dual - Mode decoder, but remember that the Atlas Quantum Engineer won't work on an analog layout. Also, on a DC - powered layout, it can't be grouped with a locomotive that doesn't have both DCC and sound. When it comes to sound, you can enjoy over 20 different sound effects and choose from various horns, bells, and brake squeals. You can even switch between manual and automatic notching modes while the train is running. As for maintenance, keep the model clean. You can use a soft brush to remove dust from the locomotive and its parts. Check the wheels regularly to make sure they're rolling smoothly. If any of the separately - applied scale detail parts come loose, you can use a small amount of glue to reattach them carefully. And always store your model train in a dry and safe place to prevent damage.