HO Hudson New York Central Locomotive #5438 (BAC53604)

HO-scale New York Central Hudson 4-6-4 J3a Locomotive No. 5438 is a meticulously detailed model that transports the glamour of 1927 luxury rail travel to your layout. The ALCO-designed Hudson class, introduced in 1927, became a symbol of the New York Central’s fast passenger service along the Hudson River—and this replica captures that iconic look with authentic NYC tooling for an eye-catching centerpiece on any HO scene.

Designed for modern model railroading, this locomotive ships with a TCS WOWSound decoder delivering CD-quality audio and Audio Assist for easy setup of sound, speed, direction, and lighting. It includes practical features such as a Keep-Alive device to prevent interruptions on dirty track, load-based chuff with Chuffinity for realistic power changes, and a precision motor. The model sports separately applied metal handrails and tender details, a detailed cab backhead, and a highly finished body with precise graphics, plus a die-cast boiler, all-metal chassis with die-cast trucks, blackened side rods and RP25 wheels. Magnetically operated EZ Mate II couplers live on both ends, and operating headlights and rear lights follow Rule 17 (or automatic direction control). Best suited for 22" radius curves or larger, it brings reliable operation and showcase-quality detail to any NYC passenger-era layout.