The ALCo RS-1 is a quintessential first-generation road switcher — a machine that helped define early diesel freight operations in North America. With 1,000 horsepower on a rugged B-B wheel arrangement, the RS-1 combined versatile performance with a compact footprint, making it an ideal choice for shortlines, regional freight service, yard switching, and industrial duty.
Among the many roads that came to rely on this durable design, the Green Mountain Railroad of Vermont became well known for its classic ALCo fleet. One of the railroad’s most beloved locomotives is RS-1 #405, a veteran of local freight, branch line work, and all manner of freight duties out of White River Junction and beyond.
Now, Sunset Models 3rd Rail brings this historic shortline icon to O Scale 2-Rail and 3-Rail, delivering a model with the detail, presence, and performance that serious modelers expect — all with a precision ABS shell, die-cast metal chassis, and fine brass detail parts that rival traditional brass imports.
Road Number Offered
Green Mountain Railroad #405
Finished in the railroad’s distinctive colors and markings, this locomotive represents the heart of GMRC’s early diesel roster.
Model Features
• Precision ABS Plastic Shell with Die-Cast Metal Chassis
• Fine Brass Detail Parts — handrails, grab irons, roof fittings, bell, horn, pilot hardware, and MU fittings specially detailed to RS-1 prototype
• Authentic Green Mountain Railroad Paint & Lettering — correct color placement, fonts, and roadnumber #405 markings
• Road-Specific GMRC Details — shortline lighting package, hood vents and grills, number boards, and shortline service equipment
• Powerful Can Motor Drive for smooth, quiet performance on freight, local, and yard work
• All-Wheel Drive and All-Wheel 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.
• OEM Blunami Upgrade Option Available in both 2-Rail and 3-Rail
• LED Lighting Suite — headlights and number boards
• ERR Cruise is compatible with Legacy, DCS, TMCC, and Conventional control systems
Smoke is not available in 3R due to space constraints
Classic Shortline Power, Now in Premium O Scale
For decades, the Green Mountain Railroad RS-1 #405 has stood as a favorite among shortline and regional railroad enthusiasts — a workhorse that faithfully served customers in Vermont’s valleys and hills. Its compact power, distinctive ALCo character, and shortline personality make it an ideal subject for modelers who love authentic regional operation and classic diesel design.
With this release, Sunset Models 3rd Rail gives shortline fans a museum-quality RS-1 that combines durability, fidelity, and the strong presence this beloved locomotive deserves.
Reserve your Green Mountain Railroad RS-1 #405 today and bring a piece of Vermont shortline history to your O Scale roster.
Minimum of 20 are needed to be reserved to build.
Photo courtesy of yelp.com
