We've decided to bring them back! But this time, they've brought a friend!
The M420 was equipped with the ALCO 12V-251c3 prime mover producing 2000 H.P. Most M420 units rode on MLW ZWT (Zero Weight- Transfer) trucks. The only exception to this were the 5 units built for the Providence & Worcester, which rode on ALCO trade-in FA trucks. The P&W required a different bolster design and a slightly different truck spacing, making them unique.
MLW constructed 103 M420s between May 1973 and February 1977 for four railways including CN (80), BCR (16 including eight B units), Ferrocarriles del Estado (2), Providence & Worcester (5).
CN would take delivery of the M420s in 3 groups: MR-20a class 2500-2529 (delivered 1973), MR-20b class 2530- 2559 (delivered 1974), and MR-20c class 2560-2579 (delivered 1976). All of the CN units were retired by 1998 and today many of these locomotives have found second careers on short lines all over North America.
The M420 Locomotive features:
3D scanned from an actual M420. This is as close to real as it gets!
MR-20b and MR-20c classes available in the first run
Rapido’s innovative dead straight metal side handrails with plastic stanchions
Incredible underframe detail including traction motor cables and other piping, rerailer and a silly number of separately applied parts
Two or three panel radiators, louvered or large opening electrical cabinet door, open or closed truck bearings
Separate grab irons and handrails installed at the factory
Operating headlights, rear lights, tri-colour class lights, and illuminated cab control stand
Highly detailed cab interior with optional open front door
DC/Silent (21-pin DCC Ready) or DC/DCC/ESU LokSound
And some new features!
CN 3500s feature rebuilt long hood with knuckle buster door latches, paper air filters, retention tank, ditch lights and relocated horn
BC Rail has correct fuel tank size and location, four rock lights (in nose and pilot) and rebuilt steps
B-units are part of A/B set, single A units can be purchased separately.
P&W version has correct Type B trucks and headlight variation
