In the late 1980s, as General Electric and General Motors' Electro-Motive Division engaged in heated competition (that continues today) for market share in the high horsepower category, GE announced the Dash-8 class of diesel locomotives. Although the first demonstrator version had only 3,200 hp, most of the Dash-8s had 4,000 hp when delivered. Because GE builds its diesel locomotives in five modules, it was able to customize its Dash-8s for each buyer to an unusual degree. Some railroads ordered their Dash-8s with the conventional narrow cabs, while other opted for the wider safety or comfort cabs. Some Dash-8s have 4-wheel trucks, and other have 6-wheel trucks. All this variety means that these diesels, which were designed for fast freight duty, are also well suited for Amtrak's passenger service. Despite their many differences, all Dash-8s share microprocessor control. The microprocessor, a small computer, regulates rpm, fuel injection volume, generator excitation, and many other operational features to make the engines run more efficiently than any diesel ever had before them. M.T.H. is proud to make this rugged American prototype available to garden railroaders in a variety of roadnames that are sure to please. Available in the markings of Conrail, Providence & Worcester, Susquehanna and Union Pacific, these highly detailed 1:32 scale models provide realistic operation and the long list of features shown. Did You Know? The microprocessor in the prototype Dash-8 recognizes if the engine is overheating while in a tunnel, as opposed to a malfunction on the open rails, and allows it to keep operating at full power for ten minutes, so the crew doesn't find itself stranded in a tunnel.
