MSRP: $399.99
97442 Krauss-Maffei ML4000 Diesel Loco SP 9000, w/Sound (HO-Scale)
NOTE: Loco in photos is #9000. See product description for road number information.
Returns:
Returns are accepted within 30 days of the order for a full refund for new and unopened items only. Items that are opened or used are not returnable for a refund. Defective items are covered under the manufacturer’s warranty and are handled directly through the manufacturer. For further information on the manufacturer’s warranty, please contact us and we will be happy to assist you. Any item that is returned as new but has been opened, used, or is in any other condition than received will be refused or refunded less return shipping and a restocking fee of up to 50%
If your order is damaged in shipping, please contact us immediately so that we can start a claim. Do not open or use the item as that will void the claim and the order will not be able to be returned.
Please note that we have a 5 Business Day Lead Time.
We ship items out as fast as we can. Please anticipate shipping delays. Thanks again for your business. We have found that FedEx Ground and Home are faster than the USPS at the moment. We also have started to price shop UPS as well. We will change the shipping method if we can get it to you at the same speed for a lesser cost. If there is any significant cost savings, we will refund you.
Information from PIKO:
Features:
A Little About The Prototype...
Krauss-Maffei of Germany worked closely with the
Southern Pacific and the Denver & Rio Grande to develop a revolutionary new
diesel-hydraulic locomotive. At the start of the 1960s, these beasts packed
4000 horsepower, a feat that would not be matched by American Diesel locomotive
builders for many years. Typical American diesels of the time had only 2000 HP
or less. The idea of replacing two locos with one in mainline service had great
appeal. The hydraulic transmissions were an effort to eliminate the complexity
and maintenance issues of electrical traction motors and all their related
controls.
Three “Prototype” locos were delivered to SP in 1961 and three to D&RGW.
These cab locos with their rounded noses and full carbodies looked very
different than the slightly larger batch of “Series” hood locos later delivered
to the SP. Upon delivery, both roads promptly put their KMs to work in the
hardest possible service, with dynamometer cars often following to test every
aspect. Performance was impressive, but teething problems quickly developed.
German technicians sent over to the SP and D&RGW worked to address issues
and train local maintenance crews. Over time, many modifications were made and
reliability improved, but in the end, the locos may simply have been victims of
a difference of cultures. Technology that was commonplace and successful in
European railroads just did not mesh well with American railroad operation and
maintenance practices. None of the six “Prototype” locos survived the decade,
but they made an indelible mark with many thousands of fans.