Description
The prototype for this detailed Atlas N Scale GE B23-7 was General Electric's competitor to popular EMD four-axle EMD diesels in the late 1970s. The Dash 7 locomotive line was introduced as a replacement for the older Universal-Series of the 60s and early 70s. Dash 7 series improvements included increased fuel efficiency, tractive effort and reliability. The B23-7 was a direct replacement for the 2,250HP U23B model. The first units were produced for Conrail in September, 1977 (ironically, 3 months after the last U23B was delivered to Conrail). Production continued through 1984, with a total of 535 units built. Conrail was the largest purchaser of the model, with a total fleet of 141 units. Several features distinguished B23-7s from predecessor models. The long hood stepped outward in the area of the exhaust stack to accommodate a relocated oil cooler. In addition, the frame was 2 feet longer than that of the U23B. An FB-2 style truck was offered as standard equipment on B23-7s, but some railroads opted to use trade-in trucks. Therefore, AAR type B and Blomberg trucks could be found on some models. The six power assembly doors (located near the center of the long hood) indicated that the B23-7 was powered by a 12-cylinder GE FDL engine. The B23-7 was built in both low and high-nose versions. A few examples of this model are still in service today and can be found working for various shortlines in the US. This model comes equipped with a dual-mode ESU LokSound sound and DCC decoder for operation on DCC and DC layouts (DC with reduced sound functions) and features a scale-speed motor with dual flywheels, directional LED lighting, roadname-appropriate workign ditch lights, accurate decoration and AccuMate(R) magnetic knuckle couplers. This GE B23-7 is one of many Atlas and Trainman N Scale locomotives.
