This Broadway Limited HO Scale EMD SD7 Paragon3 diesel locomotive is based on six-axle units introduced in February 1952 and produced through November 1953. The SD7 was the 1500hp big brother to the GP7. Riding on six axles, three-motor trucks, they were designed to offer more starting tractive effort in road service than the GP7. EMDs introduction of an A1A freight locomotive led them to design the SD7 from the ground up. In appearance, they are very similar to the GP7 only with a longer hood. The radiators are grouped together at the end of the long hood and not separated as was seen on the GP7. The grill assembly protrudes from the side of the hood whereas with the GP7 the grills are fit flush with the hood. As built, the SD7 very closely resembles the SD9 with the visual spotting features being the boarding steps and a variation of the classification lights. The SD7 (SD for Special Duty) at the time was a massive locomotive at 60 feet 8 inches from coupler to coupler and weighing 360,000 pounds. It was powered by the same reliable 1500HP 567B V-16 two-cycle diesel engine as the GP7 and F7. With a maximum speed range between 55 and 89 miles per hour, depending on the gearing ratio selected, and a tractive force of 90,000 pounds, the SD series was here to stay. With the SD7, EMD introduced the lightweight Flexicoil truck which enabled these locomotives to be used on branchlines as well as for road service. These trucks were so smooth that the SD7 was compared to riding in a luxury car.
 
This HO Scale model has full Paragon3 sound and DCC for realistic sound and motor control and is designed to work with all Broadway Limited Rolling Thunder(TM) advanced sound systems. Other features include a smooth-running flywheel-equipped drive, directional lighting and magnetic knuckle couplers. This HO Scale EMD SD7 can be operated on all DCC systems as well as on standard DC railroads (with limited sound functionality). The SD has wheels profiled to operate on Code 83 and larger rail and curves of 18" radius or larger. It'll look right at home on your 1950s to 2000s layout in road and switching duties.