November 2, 2021 - M.T.H. Electric Trains will be releasing the Premier O Scale F-3 Diesel Locomotives in four select liveries beginning early next year. Each of these unique schemes will be available in multiple configurations allowing users to build a variety of AA, AB, ABA or ABBA consists. The locomotives should begin shipping to M.T.H. Authorized Retailers in February 2022.
From 1942-1945, Electro Motive Division's F-unit was the only road freight diesel built in America. While the War Production Board limited competitors Alco and Baldwin to diesel switcher and steam locomotive production during World War II, EMD's 1,350 hp FT became a runaway best-seller. By war's end, Electro Motive had a lead over its competitors that would last until they closed their doors.
With production restrictions lifted and the U.S. economy humming with pent-up demand, railroads clamored for new diesels to replace a steam fleet exhausted by wartime traffic. In July 1946, EMD introduced a new model F-unit, the F3. Horsepower was upgraded to 1,500 and lessons learned on the FT gave the F3 better reliability and lower maintenance. Under the hood throbbed an improved 567-series V-12 engine. With 567 inches of displacement per cylinder, this same engine would power virtually the entire first generation of EMD diesel locomotives.
Check out each of the schemes in the list on the left.
