Review

Life-Like has done a solid job with its ready-to-run model of the modern EMD GP60, which looks good pulling hotshot trains on layouts set in the past 20 years. The GP60 was the last of EMD's high-speed, four-axle freight locomotives, with 380 of the 3,800-hp racehorses built from 1985 through 1994. Since that time railroads have opted for six-axle diesels for both fast-freight and drag service.

The model, part of Life-Like's Proto N series, nicely captures the look of the real GP60. The model has a multi-part shell with separate walkway, hood/nose, cab and dynamic brake housing. Separate factory-applied details include the horn, handrails and brake wheel. All other details are molded in place, including grab irons, m.u. hoses and grills.

Accumate automatic knuckle couplers are mounted to the shell at each end. The model's detail level is decent, and the thin cross section of the handrails and stanchions is very good. The lettering and paint on our St. Louis Southwestern (Cotton Belt) sample are nicely done, right down to the warning labels on the engine-room doors.

The GP60 is also available: Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe (yellow bonnet); Burlington Northern Santa Fe (yellow bonnet); Denver & Rio Grande Western; EMD; Norfolk Southern; Southern Pacific; Union Pacific (standard and winged shield); undecorated

The bottom line is that this model is appealing to modern era modelers Starts smoothly and runs well Excellent model of a modern diesel.