The Atlas 10003796 U33B CR Conrail #2896 Gold HO Scale locomotive is a remarkable collectible. In the late 1960s, the horsepower race was intense. GE introduced the 3,300hp four - axle U33B locomotive, producing 137 units from September 1967 to August 1970. In 1970, GE upped the ante with the 3,600hp U36B, made from May 1970 to December 1974. Externally identical, both were powered by the GE FDL - 16 cylinder four - stroke engine, with the horsepower increase achieved through internal adjustments. A key feature of both models is the built - out radiator “wings” on the long hood. Atlas offers the U33B and U36B in early and late phases. The early phase has flush - mounted radiator and air intake screens on the long hood and a built - out area on the top of the front and rear pilots. The late phase comes with corrugated screens and a flat pilot face. An optional electrical equipment box is included on the left - side walkway behind the cab as per the prototype. AAR - B or Blomberg trucks are used when needed. This model has many great features. It has a newly upgraded cab. The separately - applied scale detail parts like windshield wipers, metal grab irons, and more add to its realism. It has a five - pole skewed armature motor with dual flywheels for smooth performance at all speeds. Directional lighting with golden - white LEDs and blackened metal wheels enhance its look. For DCC operation, it supports all DCC - programming modes, has flexible function key mapping, and six DCC function outputs, following all NMRA DCC standards. The LokSound Select Dual - Mode decoder allows it to be used on both DC and DCC layouts. However, note that the Atlas Quantum Engineer won't operate it on an analog (DC) layout, but the sound and lighting can be controlled by a basic DCC system. Also, on a DC - powered layout, it can't be grouped with a locomotive without both DCC and sound. In terms of sound, it offers over 20 sound effects, 16 user - selectable horns, 2 user - selectable bells, and 2 user - selectable synchronized brake squeals. Manual and automatic notching modes can be changed “on the fly” for a realistic experience.

Using your Atlas U33B CR Conrail #2896 Gold HO Scale locomotive is a breeze. First, if you're using a DCC layout, make sure your DCC system is set up correctly. You can easily program and control the locomotive using the flexible function key mapping from F0 to F28. For analog (DC) operation, the LokSound Select Dual - Mode decoder enables the locomotive to run on a DC layout. But remember, the Atlas Quantum Engineer won't work with it on a DC layout. When it comes to sound, just select your favorite horn, bell, or other sound effects. You can switch between manual and automatic notching modes while the locomotive is running for a more realistic feel. As for maintenance, keep the locomotive clean. Use a soft brush to remove dust from the body, wheels, and the electrical contacts. Check the separately - applied scale detail parts regularly to make sure they're secure. Also, be careful when handling the locomotive to avoid damaging these delicate parts. When storing, place it in a dry and cool place, away from direct sunlight. And on a DC - powered layout, don't try to consist it with a locomotive that doesn't have both DCC and sound.