Athearn HO scale EMD SD40-2 diesel locomotive

In this product review video, Model Railroader Senior Editor Cody Grivno examines the Athearn HO scale Electro-Motive Division SD40-2. Cody begins with the prototype history, noting that EMD produced more than 3,900 units between January 1972 and February 1986. These six-axle units were rated at 3,000 horsepower and featured a 16-cylinder 645E3C diesel engine.

The review sample is decorated as Burlington Northern No. 8166, featuring factory-applied details such as a snow plow, wire grab irons, and flexible rubber MU hoses. Equipped with an Econami sound decoder, the model showcases functions like the Leslie three-chime air horn, diesel engine rumble, and coupler crash. Available in several schemes, including Santa Fe, Conrail, and Union Pacific, DC models retail for $169.99, while sound-equipped versions retail for $239.99.

Trains.com Product Review videos showcase the latest new items from manufacturers of products in Z, N, HO, S, O, and large scales. In the videos, you can watch locomotives in action, take a close-up look at details on freight cars, see kit components, and much more.

If you are a manufacturer and have products you would like reviewed, please email Senior Editor Cody Grivno at cody.grivno@firecrown.com for more information.