The Alco RSD-5 is a classic six-axle diesel-electric road switcher known for its rugged performance and versatility. With 1,600 HP and C-C trucks, the RSD-5 was an ideal locomotive for heavy freight and mixed duty service in mid-century railroading. While the type saw widespread use in the United States, it was also purchased in small numbers by Nacionales de México (NdeM) — Mexico’s national railroad — where it served in general freight and secondary road duties, helping move goods across diverse terrain.
NdeM’s RSD-5s were among the few of this model rostered outside the United States and Mexico’s Ferrocarril del Pacífico group, making them unique subjects for modeling. With this release, Sunset Models / 3rd Rail brings these rare and historic units to O Scale for the first time outside of pure brass imports. Built with an ABS plastic shell, die-cast chassis, and brass detail parts, these models deliver museum-quality presence and performance.
Road Numbers Offered
NdeM 5645 – Early RSD-5 in national freight service
NdeM 6900
NdeM 6901 – Second unit delivered alongside 6900
These two locomotives represent the only RSD-5s rostered by Nacionales de México, distinguishing them as rare and highly collectible prototypes for O Scale modelers interested in Mexican diesel power.
Model Features
• Precision ABS Plastic Shell with Die-Cast Metal Chassis
• Fine Brass Detail Parts for Maximum Accuracy
• Powerful Can Motor Drive for smooth, quiet operation
• 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.
Rare Mexican Diesel Power done "A Cut Above" in O Scale
While the RSD-5 never became a widespread mainstay on Mexican rails, the handful purchased by Nacionales de México remains a fascinating example of mid-century diesel adoption outside the U.S. Because they were delivered in small numbers and served in general freight roles, these units are beloved by railroad historians and modelers alike.
Now, for the first time in a non-brass O Scale offering, the Sunset Models / 3rd Rail Nacionales de México RSD-5sbring the unique look and historical significance of NdeM #5645, #6900 and #6901 to your layout — with accuracy and detail worthy of their story.
Reserve yours today and add one of Mexico’s rarest road switchers to your roster — in both 2-Rail and 3-Rail versions.
Minimum 25 of are required to be reserved to be made.
Photo courtesy of Matthew J. Herson, Jr.-Lloyd Transportation Library
