SKU: RPI-38043-PRE

PREORDER Rapido HO 38043 EMD GP38 Low Nose with Extended Cab Locomotive, Bangor & Aroostook #92 (Standard DC)

10% down: $24.30
Our Price: $243.01
MSRP: $249.95

Note: You will reserve this item today for a 10% down payment of $24.30. Approximately 30-45 days before your item is expected at the warehouse, we will invoice you $218.71 plus shipping and any applicable taxes.

How Preorders Work

Expected release date is Oct 23, 2026

Quantity
30-Day Hassle-Free Returns

Description

The prototypes for the Rapido Trains HO Scale EMD GP38 diesels are modeled after the extremely popular 2,000-horsepower locomotives introduced in 1966. General Motors' Electro-Motive Division achieved success pretty early on, having developed and marketed a variety of 4-axle road switchers beginning with the GP7. By the mid-Sixties, EMD unveiled the latest Geep - the 2000 horsepower GP38. This was a non-turbocharged locomotive, similar in appearance to the earlier GP35. The GP38 had two radiator fans and paired exhaust stacks. The GP38 was longer than the GP35 and featured a new style radiator grille and a straighter sill and redesigned fuel tank. As with other locomotives, GP38s could be ordered with, or without, dynamic brakes, as well as a variety of other options (a few had dual control stands, steam generators for passenger service, some railroads specified their own lighting options and short hood options). 16-645 prime mover and a D32 direct current (DC) generator, similar to all the other locomotives produced previously by EMD. The push to higher horsepower, however, necessitated larger DC generators and in 1971 EMD introduced a new option for the GP38 - an AR10 alternating current (AC) alternator in place of the generator. This was a solution to the space problems encountered by the large generator, because alternators were smaller, yet offered the same electrical capacity. And thus was born the GP38AC, which are externally identical to the GP38. The GP38 was a popular engine, filling a niche for railroads requiring a locomotive for lighter duty and for use on trackage that was often not for high-speed mainline trains. As such it was purchased for a number of shortlines and a small number of industrial users. As a number of Class I railroads operate a lot of branch lines, the GP38 was also popular with these larger railroads as well. The HO Scale EMD GP38 is loaded with roadname-specific details and features appropriate truck sideframes, headlight placement, dynamic brake placement, a operating headlights, class lights and auxiliary lights. The standard DC model is DCC ready and features dual flywheels and magnetic knuckle couplers. EMD GP38s are part of the extensive line of Rapido Trains HO Scale locomotives.

Preorders: Frequently Asked Questions

What is preordering and why would I want to do that?

In the model railroading world, most products are made in limited runs. Manufacturers no longer produce large quantities to sit in warehouses. Instead, they announce new items and set a preorder deadline. After that date, production is based largely on the number of reservations received.

Preordering through Model Train Stuff guarantees your spot in line for these limited releases. When the products arrive, orders are filled in the order they were placed. The earlier you preorder, the better your chance of getting your items, even if there are shipping delays or shortfalls from the manufacturer.

Preordering is as easy as 1-2-3!
  1. Preordering is available on any item with the word "Preorder" as the first word in the product title.
  2. We will email your invoice approximately 30-45 days before your preorder items land at the warehouse. With the interactive invoice you can select your preferred shipping method and pay the balance of your order right online!
  3. We'll ship you your preorder once your invoice is paid online. 

How can I place a preorder?

To place a preorder, simply look for items marked with "PREORDER" in their title on our website. Add the item to your cart and proceed to checkout. You'll be required to pay a 10% non-refundable deposit to secure your reservation.

When will I be charged for my preorder?

You'll be charged a 10% deposit at the time of placing your preorder. The remaining balance, along with any applicable sales tax and shipping charges, will be due when the item is ready to be shipped. We'll notify you via email with a link to complete your payment.

Can I cancel my preorder?

Preorders can be canceled, but please note that the 10% deposit is non-refundable and will not be credited to store credit, as it goes toward covering the cost of the uncollected reservation.

When will my preorder ship?

The estimated shipping date for each preorder item is listed on the product page. We'll also keep you updated via email if there are any changes to the shipping schedule. Once your final payment is received, your item will be shipped according to your selected shipping method.

What happens if a preorder item is delayed or canceled by the manufacturer?

In the rare event that a preorder item is delayed or canceled by the manufacturer, we'll notify you as soon as possible. You can choose to wait for the item, apply your deposit to a different item, or request a refund or store credit for your deposit.

How do I check the status of my preorder?

You can check the status of your preorder by logging into your account on our website and viewing your order history. We'll also keep you updated via email with any important information regarding your preorder.

What if I have more questions about preordering?

If you have any further questions about preordering, feel free to contact our customer service team. We're here to help you with any inquiries you may have.