HO C&NW 4-6-2 Yellow Jacket #617 1952 Appearance DCC-Ready (BLI9549)

The HO scale C&NW 4-6-2 Yellow Jacket locomotive, numbered #617, showcases its 1952 appearance in stunning detail. Originally built in 1930 by Alco for the iconic Chicago and North Western Railway, this model pays tribute to an era known for its extensive passenger services across the Midwest. The locomotive, commonly referred to as the "Yellow Jacket" due to its distinct yellow and green paint scheme, was designed to modernize the legendary "400" series trains, which were a symbol of travel connecting Chicago to the Upper Midwest.

This model does not come with sound but is equipped with DCC capability, allowing for integration into digital command control systems. It features a handcrafted brass boiler, cab, and tender body, paired with a heavy die-cast chassis that enhances tractive effort. The meticulous design includes components such as a synchronized puffing smoke system, variable smoke intensity and timing, and an integral DCC decoder with Back EMF technology for optimal slow-speed performance.

With prototypical details, this model reproduces the locomotive accurately across three eras, including numerous separable details such as handrails, grab irons, and various piping. It is also designed for increased pulling power with rubber traction tires and is capable of navigating curves with a recommended minimum radius of 18 inches.