The Alco RS-3 was one of the most capable and versatile road switchers of its era, delivering 1,600 horsepower through a rugged B-B wheel arrangement that made it equally effective on locals, transfers, and mainline freight assignments. On the Central Vermont Railway, the RS-3 quickly became indispensable, working throughout Vermont and New England on heavy mixed freights, seasonal traffic, and daily local duties.
Central Vermont’s RS-3s are fondly remembered for their distinctive appearance, especially when repainted into the bold CN Yellow scheme and brought a visual identity to classic Alco power and made these locomotives stand out across the New England landscape.
Now, Sunset Models 3rd Rail brings the Central Vermont RS-3 to O Scale with the kind of fidelity that has made our diesel line a benchmark in the hobby. Featuring a precision ABS plastic shell, die-cast metal chassis, and fine brass detail parts, this model captures every nuance of these hardworking CV road switchers.
Road Numbers Offered — CN Yellow Scheme
CV 1859
CV 1860
CV 3900
CV 3901
Each locomotive is finished in the distinctive CN Yellow/CV lettering arrangement with accurate striping, and fonts.
Model Features
• Precision ABS Plastic Shell with Die-Cast Metal Chassis
• Fine Brass Detail Parts — including handrails, grilles, pilot details, lift rings, and rooftop fittings
• Authentic CN Yellow Paint & Central Vermont Lettering — applied with accurate fonts, layout, and striping
• Road-Specific CV Details — correct horns, lighting packages, number boards, MU connections, and hood details
• Powerful Can Motor Drive for smooth, quiet 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 and number boards
• ERR Cruise is compatible with Legacy, DCS, TMCC, and Conventional control systems, Blunami is not and indepently operated through the iPhone or Andriod Apps.
Smoke is not available in 3R versions due to space constraints.
Classic New England Road Switchers, Built "A Cut Above" in O Scale
Whether handling rural locals, seasonal agricultural movements, or interchange traffic with Canadian National, the Central Vermont RS-3s embody the charm and ruggedness of New England railroading. Their unique CN Yellow paint scheme makes them instant standouts in any O Scale diesel fleet.
With this release, Sunset Models 3rd Rail is proud to offer the first non-brass O Scale production of these iconic CV Alcos — built for accuracy, durability, and exceptional performance.
Reserve your Central Vermont RS-3 today and bring a piece of classic New England diesel history to your layout.
Minimum of 20 needed to be reserved to build.
Photo courtesy of brasstrains.com
