The ALCo RS-1 was the locomotive that helped launch the road-switcher revolution—compact, reliable, and perfectly suited to the mixed duties railroads faced every day. With 1,000 horsepower and a rugged B-B wheel arrangement, the RS-1 excelled at local freights, yard switching, transfer runs, and branchline work.
On the Gulf, Mobile & Ohio, RS-1s became indispensable across the system, working everything from industrial switching to road assignments that demanded steady pulling power and sure-footed performance. GM&O’s diesel fleet is beloved for its clean styling and distinctive branding, and the RS-1 fits right into that classic mid-century look—an ideal locomotive for realistic operations and era-accurate consists.
Now, Sunset Models 3rd Rail brings the GM&O RS-1 to O Scale with a precision ABS plastic shell, die-cast metal chassis, and fine brass detail parts—delivering museum-quality presence and durability in both 2-Rail and 3-Rail.
Road Numbers Offered — Gulf, Mobile & Ohio
GM&O 1105
GM&O 1112
GM&O 1121
Each locomotive is finished with accurate GM&O lettering and detailing appropriate to its service era.
Model Features
• Precision ABS Plastic Shell with Die-Cast Metal Chassis
• Fine Brass Detail Parts — handrails, grab irons, grilles, pilot hardware, lift rings, and rooftop fittings
• Authentic GM&O Paint & Lettering — correct fonts, striping, and number placement
• Road-Specific GM&O Details — lighting package, horn placement, number boards, and appliance arrangements matched to prototype practice
• Powerful Can Motor Drive for smooth, quiet performance
• 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 models due to space constraints
A Classic Road Switcher for Classic Mid-South Railroading
The GM&O RS-1s represent the heart of practical railroading—switching, locals, and day-in/day-out freight service where dependable power mattered most.
Whether you model small-town depots, industrial districts, or mainline transfers, these locomotives bring authentic first-generation diesel character to any O Scale layout.
Reserve your Gulf, Mobile & Ohio RS-1 today and add a true road-switcher pioneer to your O Scale roster.
Minimum of 20 are needed to be reserved to build.
Photo courtesy of hawkinsrail.net
