The ScaleTrains HO Norfolk Southern AC44C6M, a modern six-axle road locomotive, is the latest addition to the manufacturer’s Rivet Counter line. Model Railroader Senior Editor Cody Grivno provides a brief history of the full-size units and Norfolk Southern No. 4000; shows the many separate, factory-applied detail parts; and demonstrates the sound and light functions on our review sample, which has an ESU LokSound V5 sound decoder. Then watch the locomotive work the industries on our Winston-Salem Southbound Tar Branch project layout.
The AC44C6M is offered in several Norfolk Southern paint schemes, including blue mane with yellow stripe (“Sonic Bonnet”), black mane with blue stripe, black mane with tuscan red stripe, Thoroughbred, Thoroughbred in partial primer, and Thoroughbred with sinewave. Each paint scheme is offered in one to three road numbers.
Features on the ScaleTrains HO Norfolk Southern AC44C6M include a factory-applied snow plow, m.u. and train line hoses, m.u. cables, and uncoupling levers; metal semi-scale Type E couplers; plastic handrails and stanchions; factory-installed and painted wire grab irons; and non-operating Locomotive Speed Limiter indicator lights. Additional highlights include a detailed cab interior with an in-cab grade crossing camera; JEM Communications PTC antenna farm with Sinclair antennas; a cast brass Nathan AirChime P5R24 air horn; and 22 factory-applied, see-through etched-metal radiator intake and exhaust grills on sides and top of radiator compartment.
Direct-current models with a 21-pin connector are priced at $225. Versions with an ESU LokSound V5 sound decoder, two cube-type speakers, and ESU-designed PowerPack with two super capacitors sell for $335. The AC44C6M has a minimum radius of 18” and a recommended radius of 22”. The locomotive will operate on codes 70, 83, and 100 rail.
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.
