A pair of Athearn replicas of the F7A and B diesels model the Canadian National and have been converted to DCC. B unit includes sound.

• Run smoothly and quietly
• Athearn can motors
• Dual balanced brass flywheels
• Good embossed detail
• Evenly applied paint
• Sharp lettering and graphics
• DCC address set to 6500 for both units
• Glazing in all windows
• Knuckle couplers

Classic Athearn diesels run perfectly together as a lash up under address 6500. Smooth, prototypical operation. The principal operational benefit of the DCC control is a wider range of speeds, smoother operation at slow speeds and a slower transition when accelerating or braking. In addition, multiple units may be independently operated at the same on the same track. For more on DCC operation, follow the information link at the end of this listing.

The decoder in the "A" diesel is a Digitrax DN163, normally used in Z scale power units. But that's mainly because of the small physical size - the current rating of the chip is 1 amp at up to 18 volts and thus is suitable for HO operations. See this Digitrax link for more information. This window will stay open. The decoder has been installed by a computer engineer and the work is entirely first-rate. The B unit employs a vaunted MRC SND 1626, Follow this MRC link for more info.

From an appearance standpoint, the models have good embossed details, such as rivet lines, fan exhaust on top and venting along the sides.

F0 controls the two front lights on the A unit; one white, the other orange. F4 controls yellow beacon on cab roof. No lights in the B unit. Sound is triggered by F12, and includes a variety of signature diesel noises such as let-off, brake, bell, horn. There are 16 sound effects, altogether, which vary according to the loco moving or sitting still. -see MRC link above and download a copy of the documentation. Sound quality was among the best we've ever heard.

The knuckle couplers function well, but are too low. Recommend replacement with underset couplers.

On the test layout, the unit operated smoothly at all speeds. The motor noise was low. No problem in the turnouts, up and down grades, or anywhere else. Both decoders are set for address 6500 so the diesels may be put to immediate use as a pair.

Although these diesel models are not the current state of the art in terms of detailed appearance, they are easily modified to add realism. The operational realism is already there and could hardly be improved.

These unit, as the others from this collection, was well maintained, stored, and operated in impeccably clean conditions. You will find scant evidence of wear and tear or handling.

No original box or paper work. For decoder documentation, follow the links above. For more on how we test locos, click the information link below.

Price of $125 (or less with the fleet discount).

Price includes shipping to the lower 48. International shipping to Canada, the UK and Australia are at actual cost.

Model is eligible for a fleet discount of up to 20%. See this fleet discount description for details. Otherwise, for a description of model railroading terminology and key concepts, follow this information link. This listing window will remain open so you don't lose your place here.