Diesel locomotives MLW M420 + M420B, BCR – Red, White & Blue Scheme: #641 + #681

The M420 was equipped with the ALCO 12V-251c3 prime mover producing 2000 H.P. Most M420 units rode on MLW ZWT (Zero Weight- Transfer) trucks. The only exception to this were the 5 units built for the Providence & Worcester, which rode on ALCO trade-in FA trucks. The P&W required a different bolster design and different truck spacing, making them unique.  MLW constructed 103 M420s between May 1973 and February 1977 for four railways including CN (80), BCR (16 including eight B units), Ferrocarriles del Estado (2), Providence & Worcester (5).  CN would take delivery of the M420s in 3 groups: MR-20a class 2500-2529 (delivered 1973), MR-20b class 2530- 2559 (delivered 1974), and MR-20c class 2560-2579 (delivered 1976).  All of the CN units were retired by 1998 and today many of these locomotives have found second careers on short lines all over North America.

The M420 Locomotive features:

•3D scanned from an actual M420. This is as close to real as
it gets!
•MR-20b and MR-20c classes available in the first run
•Rapido’s innovative dead straight metal side handrails with
plastic stanchions
•Incredible underframe detail including traction motor cables

and other piping, rerailer and a silly number of separately-
applied parts

•Two or three panel radiators, louvered or large opening
electrical cabinet door, open or closed truck bearings
•Separate grab irons and handrails installed at the factory
•Operating headlights, rear lights, tri-colour class lights, and
illuminated cab control stand
•Highly detailed cab interior with optional open front door
•DC/Silent (21-pin DCC Ready) or DC/DCC/ESU LokSound

•CN 3500s feature rebuilt long hood with knuckle buster door
latches, paper air filters, retention tank ditch lights and relocated
horn
•BC Rail has correct fuel tank size and location, four rock lights
(in nose and pilot) and rebuilt steps
•B-units are part of A/B set, single A units can be purchased
separately.
•P&W version has correct AAR-trucks and headlight variation