HO GEN GP39-2 PH I Locomotive DH #7603 (ATHG-1976)

An HO-scale GP39-2 Phase I diesel locomotive from Athearn, designed to bring a prototypical mid-horsepower four-axle road switcher to an HO layout. This model captures the GP39-2 profile used by North American railroads in the late 1970s and early 1980s, offering realistic detailing and dependable performance on standard track.

Inside, the model features a see-through cab with a full interior, fine-scale Celcon handrails, etched metal grilles, and LED lighting with lit number boards for daytime and nighttime scenes. The drive system uses a Genesis five-pole skew-wound motor within a heavy die-cast frame for solid traction and smooth operation, with all-wheel electrical pickup for consistent power. It is DCC-ready with a 21-pin NMRA connector, and sound-equipped versions can add onboard SoundTraxx Tsunami2 with dual speakers for authentic engine, horn, and bell sounds. Prototype-specific detailing varies by road name and scheme, including features like cab headlights and beacons to match the chosen liveries.