Introduced in 1973 as Amtrak’s first new, purpose-built mainline diesel locomotive, the EMD SDP40F marked a major milestone in the railroad’s modernization. Built on the proven SD40-2 platform and equipped with steam generators for legacy passenger heating, the 3,000 HP SDP40F became the backbone of Amtrak’s early long-distance service. With their distinctive cowl bodies, six-axle trucks, and massive presence, they were among the most recognizable locomotives of Amtrak’s formative years.
SDP40Fs operated on some of Amtrak’s most famous trains, including the Southwest Limited, Super Chief, Coast Starlight, San Francisco Zephyr, National Limited, and numerous Florida services. Despite a short career brought on by evolving operating needs, the SDP40F left an unmistakable legacy, paving the way for the later F40PH and reshaping Amtrak’s diesel roster.
Now, Sunset Models / 3rd Rail proudly recreates this iconic locomotive in O Scale with an ABS body, die-cast chassis, and brass detail parts, offering museum-quality accuracy that rivals brass construction.
Road Numbers & Paint Schemes Offered
Phase I
501
515
521
543 (AMTRAK STEAM EXCURSION HELPER)
Phase II
503
509
522
527 (AMTRAK STEAM EXCURSION HELPER)
Model Features
• Precision ABS Plastic Shell with Die-Cast Metal Chassis
• Fine Brass Detail Parts and Road-Specific Variations — antennas, pilots, grills, steam generator details, handrail layouts, and truck components
• Powerful Can Motor Drive for smooth, quiet, heavy-duty performance
• All-Wheel Drive and Electrical Pickup
• Advanced electronics: 3R ERR Cruise/TMCC/Railsounds compatible with TMCC/Legacy/DCS, 3R Conventional for your choice of sound, and 2R ESU Loksound 5.0. Blunami is available as well
• LED Lighting Suite — headlights, number boards, marker lights, and strobes (where appropriate)
• Minimum Curvature:
– O-54 curves (3-Rail)
– 48" minimum radius (2-Rail)
• ERR Cruise is compatible with Legacy, DCS, TMCC, and Conventional control systems, Blunami is not and indepently operated through the iPhone or Andriod Apps.
The Face of Early Amtrak, Reimagined in Museum-Quality O Scale
The SDP40F defined Amtrak’s early visual identity: bold, modern, and powerful. Its massive cowl body and sweeping Phase I stripes became symbols of a new national passenger rail era. Although its time on the mainline was brief, the locomotive’s impact was lasting—and its unique design has made it a favorite among modelers and railfans alike.
With its ABS shell, die-cast chassis, and ultra-fine brass detailing, the 3rd Rail SDP40F delivers brass-level fidelity and performance never before available for this locomotive in O Scale.
Reserve yours today and bring home one of the most iconic locomotives from Amtrak’s early years.
Photos of OMI models courtesy of brasstrains.com
