Prototype Information

The F-Unit is probably the most recognized diesel locomotive in North American history. It was found on railroads from East to West and North to South. Eastern railroads favored a "Single Headlight" version of the F3, while Western railroads favored a "Dual Headlight" version.

F3 locomotives were used in both freight and passenger service. For passenger service, it was necessary for the locomotives to have a Steam Generator to provide heat and electricity in the passenger cars. In later years, many F3 locomotives originally intended for passenger services were downgraded to freight duty.

Model Features

Kato USA is pleased to offer a new production of N-Scale F3 locomotives with a revised, DCC Friendly mechanism that will allow drop-in decoder installation.

This production features an all-new combination of details; it is the first time we will offer the F3 in a Dual Headlight version. Of course, each roadname will have appropriate Steam Generator detail according to each prototype railroad.

Models will feature our smooth Kato mechanism with five-pole motor and flywheels, fully automatic magnetic knuckle couplers, and improved headlight color. For the first time, the Kato F-Unit will include Printed & Lighted Number Boards!

The Denver & Rio Grande railway ran the California Zephyr in the middle route between Denver and Salt Lake City. The mountainous Rockies necessitated additional power to pull the train so the D&RGW had a full A-B-B-A lashup of F3s to pull the passenger train.

The picture shows a A & B unit togeather, each unit is sold seperately!