The ALCo RS-1 is one of the most iconic early road-switchers in American railroading—compact, versatile, and rugged enough to handle switching, locals, and secondary mainline freight with ease. On the New York, Susquehanna & Western, the RS-1 became synonymous with the railroad’s regional operations across New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. These locomotives powered local freights, bridge traffic, and industrial switching throughout the mid-20th century, becoming some of the most recognizable units in NYS&W history.
Few shortline railroads embraced distinctive locomotive appearances like the Susquehanna. From the classic Yellow & Black scheme to the striking patriotic “Spirit of 1776” paint applied to locomotive #252, the NYS&W RS-1s are beloved by railfans and modelers for their character, color, and longevity in service.
Now, Sunset Models 3rd Rail brings these historically significant RS-1s to O Scale 2-Rail and 3-Rail, crafted with a precision ABS plastic shell, die-cast metal chassis, and fine brass detail parts for museum-level fidelity.
Paint Schemes & Road Numbers Offered
“Spirit of 1776” Bicentennial Scheme
A special patriotic paint scheme applied to celebrate America’s Bicentennial.
NYS&W 252 – Spirit of 1776
This locomotive is one of the most photographed and memorable pieces of NYS&W motive power.
Yellow & Black Freight Scheme
The classic Susquehanna look—yellow hoods with black tops and bold black striping. A signature image of NYS&W diesel operations.
NYS&W 238
NYS&W 239
NYS&W 240
Each locomotive is finished with accurate lettering, heralds, striping, and road-specific details.
Model Features
• Precision ABS Plastic Shell with Die-Cast Metal Chassis
• Fine Brass Detail Parts — grab irons, handrails, pilot hardware, MU fittings, lift rings, and rooftop details
• Authentic NYS&W Paint & Lettering — correct fonts, striping, colors, and herald placement for both standard and Bicentennial units
• Road-Specific Susquehanna Details — lighting variants, horn placement, number boards, radiator shutters, and appliance arrangements per prototype
• 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 units due to space constraints
A Shortline Legend, Now in Premium O Scale
The NYS&W RS-1s embodied the spirit of regional railroading—dependable, colorful, and full of personality. From the bright Yellow & Black units that defined daily operations to the patriotic “Spirit of 1776” locomotive, this lineup brings some of the most beloved northeastern shortline power to your O Scale roster.
With this release, Sunset Models 3rd Rail proudly delivers the first non-brass O Scale production of these museum quality RS-1s, blending accuracy, durability, and the level of detail your customers expect.
Reserve your New York, Susquehanna & Western RS-1 today, and bring a true northeastern classic to your O Scale empire.
Minimum of 20 are needed of each to be reserved to build.
Photo courtesy of railpictures.net
