Walthers announces the release of PROTO N EMD GP18 diesels with new roadnames. These new models feature upgraded tooling, prototypical details and a revised DCC-friendly mechanism with clip-fit circuit board.

Fast Facts: Although EMD had been the last major builder to introduce a hood unit diesel, its GP7 proved to be exactly what many railroads were looking for. In turn, the GP7 was replaced by the more powerful GP9, and in 1959, the 1800-horsepower GP18 took its place. All three models shared the same basic and boxy but practical styling. The two 48" radiator fans found on late production GP9s were carried over to the roof of the GP18, but the new model had metal grids applied over the air intakes, replacing the so-called chicken wire screens used on the GP7 and 9. By this time the market was beginning to move in two directions and EMD responded with two models, the GP18, and the 2000-horsepower GP20 for roads that wanted faster, stronger units for important mainline service. The GP18 remained in production until 1963 when it was replaced by the GP28 with its completely restyled 35-Line body. Today, GP18s remain in service on shortlines and some have been rebuilt as yard slugs.

Features: PROTO N GP18s feature upgraded tooling with a high, short hood and come with or without dynamic brake details to match the prototypes. Models are equipped with all-wheel drive and electrical pickup, Accumate® knuckle couplers, dual machined brass flywheels, constant intensity and directional headlights, RP-25 wheels for operation on any brand of code 55 or larger rail, a heavy diecast, split-frame chassis, a five-pole skew-wound motor and a revised DCC-friendly mechanism with a clip-fit circuit board.

Scale: N
Retail Price: $89.98 Each

PROTO N EMD GP18 Locomotives
920-75218 BN #1991 (Cascade Green)
920-75219 BN #1998 (Cascade Green)
920-75220 CNW† #1775 (yellow, green)
920-75221 CNW† #1778 (yellow, green)
920-75224 GTW #4703 (olive, yellow)
920-75225 GTW #4707 (olive, yellow)
920-75226 Central of Georgia #171 (Tuxedo, black, imitation aluminum)
920-75227 Central of Georgia #178 (Tuxedo, black, imitation aluminum)

†Union Pacific licensed product.

Accumate® couplers are made under license from Accurail, Inc.