SKU: RPI-55514-PRE

PREORDER Rapido HO 55514 GE U30CG SF 8004

10% down: $40.70
Our Price: $407.04
MSRP: $379.95

Note: You will reserve this item today for a 10% down payment of $40.70. Approximately 30-45 days before your item is expected at the warehouse, we will invoice you $366.34 plus shipping and any applicable taxes.

How Preorders Work

Quantity


30-Day Hassle-Free Returns

Description

Introducing the all-new General Electric U30CG diesel locomotives in HO scale!


In the mid-1960s most class one railroads were busy discontinuing their passenger operations as fast as possible. The Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway however went against the grain and purchased new diesel locomotives from both EMD and GE during this period. GE was first to respond with 10 U28CG diesels in 1966 and painted in the famous warbonnet paint scheme. The ATSF was satisfied with the performance of the U28CG, but their freight locomotive looks left a lot to be desired. The follow up order from GE introduced a whole new style more inline with the full-cowl FP45 EMD was delivering at the same time.


In addition to the 200 hp bump in power, the U30CG came complete with a full width cowl carbody featuring steam generator equipment and body side stainless steel fluting to match the Santa Fe’s large passenger car fleet. The rounded nose up front also distinguished them from the earlier U28CG. A total of six U30CGs would be delivered in 1967 numbered 400-405. These quickly were pressed into service on many of the Santa Fe’s passenger trains such as the premier Super Chief, the Grand Canyon Limited and other secondary services like the Texas Chief and San Diegans.


Despite their passenger focused design, the U30CG had very short careers in passenger service. A wreck in 1969 soured the ATSF on the big GE units and despite being cleared for service, they were mostly shifted to high priority freights. In the spring of 1970, all 6 were renumbered 8000-8005 and with few exceptions most would never lead a passenger train again. With the introduction of Amtrak in spring 1971, all six would be kept in the general freight pool until final withdrawal in 1980.


Despite their short careers, these would wear several paint schemes. Initially painted in the red/silver warbonnet colors, some briefly were painted in the blue/yellow bookends scheme in 1971 before the entire fleet ended up in yellow warbonnet by 1973. Even with the repaintings, the red warbonnet colors would reemerge as the yellow and blue paint faded and chipped off in the late 70s!


All new from the ground up, the Rapido U30CG sets a new standard for passenger power!


U30CG Features:
Design created from original measurements
Accurate nose and roof contours
Passenger and freight configurations
Roadnumber specific stepwell details
Heavy die-cast chassis
Smooth running drive system with all wheels powered
DC/Silent or DC/DCC/ESU V5 Sound options available
MoPower capacitor system for flawless power pick up
Complete lighting effects – headlights, tri-color class lights, backup lights, step lights and more
Numerous road-specific detail parts in both plastic and metal
Wire metal grab irons
Etched metal grille work
Full cab interior
Tons of underbody detailing
Trucks feature rotating bearing caps

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.