Review

Proto 2000 has released a sharp-looking model based on one of the most popular diesels ever, Electro-Motive's F7. More than 2,200 F7 A units and 1,400 B units were built from 1949 to 1953. They could be found on railroads across the country into the 1970s.

Walthers chose Great Northern as the introductory paint scheme to match the models with the company's Empire Builder passenger cars. Proto 2000 releases excellent models of EMD F7A and F7B Proto 2000's F7 A and B feature all-new tooling. The injection-molded shell nicely captures the body contours of real F units, and it features excellent detail. Separately applied details include grab irons, wind deflectors, horn, antenna and steam generator. The cab includes an interior with two painted crew members.

Prototype-specific details include a three-chime horn and a winterization hatch. End-to-end coupling is realistically close together. Lighting effects are based on specific prototypes. Our GN sample has a lower sealed-beam headlight and a simulated Mars light in the upper headlight, and the effect is quite realistic.

The models run smoothly, from a creeping start to full speed. Models are available with or without factory-installed DCC and sound. The sound-equipped models feature non-turbocharged EMD 567 engine sounds, and the effects are realistic. The DCC-sound models also operate on standard DC, but you'll have more control of the sound effects when operating with a DCC system.

Available in Great Northern; Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe; Chesapeake & Ohio; Chicago, Burlington & Quincy; Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific; New York Central; and Southern Pacific.