Discover the Athearn ATHG71819 GP38 - 2 Southern Pacific locomotive #4864 in HO scale. This model is packed with great features. The SP features include an Ex LN/SBD, mid - phase body, Blomberg M trucks, a firecracker antenna, a Nathan P3 horn, a HELM leasing pant scheme, a 3200 - gallon fuel tank, and a nose headlight. The GP38 - 2 locomotive itself has coupler cut levers, flexible rubber MU and trainline hoses, see - through cab windows, a full cab interior, walkway tread, windshield wipers, lift rings, wire grab irons, sander lines, fine - scale Celcon handrails for a realistic look, a detailed fuel tank, McHenry® scale knuckle couplers compatible with Kadee®, and DCC - ready features with Quick Plug™ technology and a 21 - pin NEM connector. It's accurately scaled from prototypes, with well - painted and printed paint schemes. The Genesis driveline offers smooth operation, and all - wheel drive and electrical pickup ensure reliability. It has LED lighting for a realistic appearance, a heavy die - cast frame for better traction, and comes fully assembled and ready to run. The primed - for - grime models have a look like 'In Service' equipment, with faded base colors and are a great start for adding grime and rust. The sound - equipped models feature an onboard DCC decoder with SoundTraxx Tsunami2 sound, working in both DC and DCC, with many functions NMRA compatible in DCC mode. The GP38 - 2 was a popular replacement locomotive in the 1970s and has been used in various railroad jobs for over 40 years. Specifications: DCC equipped, Tsunami2 sound, EMD prototype manufacturer, 4 axles, LED lighting, minimum age 14 years, no assembly required.

Using this Athearn HO scale locomotive is easy. It comes fully assembled, so you can simply place it on your track and start running. In DC mode, the engine, horn, and bell sounds work right away. In DCC mode, you can take advantage of all the NMRA - compatible functions. To set up multiple units, you can program a multiple unit (MU) lashup with lead unit - only horn, bell, and lights. When it comes to maintenance, keep the locomotive clean. You can use a soft brush to remove dust from the body, wheels, and electrical contacts. Make sure to store it in its original packaging to protect it from damage. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or humidity. If you want to customize the look, the primed - for - grime models are a great base for adding grime and rust effects. Just use appropriate modeling paints and techniques. And always handle the locomotive gently to prevent any parts from breaking or getting loose.