Rapido HO 81521 NPCU “Cabbage”, Amtrak (Downeaster) #90220

DC/DCC/SOUND EQUIPPED

In the mid 1990s, Amtrak began a rebuild program to convert retired F40PH locomotives into Non-Powered Control Units (NPCUs) by removing the prime movers, with many having their now empty empty engine rooms converted to baggage areas. These NPCUs allow “push-pull” service and eliminated the need to turn trains at terminals or run locomotives at both ends of the train. The locomotive engineer controls the locomotive from the cab in the NPCU, much like purpose-built cab cars found on many commuter trains. Used on regional trains, these “Cabbages” as they have been coined by Railfans can be seen everywhere from California and Washington State to the Mid-west and even as far east as Maine! The majority of the NPCU fleet remains in service today. In addition to the new road numbers for the first-release paint schemes, we are excited to add the much-requested Amtrak “Veterans” NPCU’s #90208 and #90221 for the first time.

Fully powered, available in silent DC or DC/DCC/Sound DC models are DCC-ready with a 21-pin plug Accurate enlarged marker lights, supplementary air reservoirs and K5LA horn Operating, flashing ditch lights Operating strobe lights, marker lights and number boards Etched-metal radiator grilles and windshield wipers Separate handrails and grab irons installed at the factory Rapido’s proven 5-pole, skew-wound motor and silky-smooth drive system Metal, magnetic Macdonald-Cartier Couplers