The Gold Standard In Model Trains | Rapido RS-11 | Unboxing & Review

A review of Rapido's fantastic RS-11 Alco Diesel!
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0:00 Intro
3:18 Unboxing
7:54 Prototype Info
8:54 Detail
15:20 Mechanism
21:33 Performance
26:31 Haulage
31:39 Ratings
35:27 Conclusion

[@thatoldmilkcarton7029]

"Trainphone" was an Electromagnetic Induction telephone system the Pennsy had for steam and diesel locomotives. The signal went from horizontal antennae on the locomotives to either the tracks themselves, or a trackside wire. It was abandoned in the 1960s when civilian radio technology became good enough.

[@SamsTrains]

Duly noted, thanks a lot for the info - so presumably they've done both versions then?? Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@davidbugler4597]

@@SamsTrains You can see the optional Trainphone antenna on the exploded parts diagram -- it's the fence-like piece above the hood. Not all divisions of the Pennsy were equipped with the Trainphone system, so reasonably enough only locos assigned to those divisions were fitted with antennas. Photos suggest that some locos kept their antennas long after the system itself went out of use, so for those in the know it's a good option to have.

[@Trainmaster909]

@@davidbugler4597 Correct. Electrified portions of the system (New York-->DC, Philadelphia-->Harrisburg, Trenton Cutoff, Enola Branch, and Port Road Branches) were unable to have the trainphone. This is because the rails that would carry the trainphone signal were the ground for the catenary system.

[@davidbugler4597]

@@Trainmaster909 Here's another thing. Of the four GP7s assigned in 1959 to Ebenezer depot, east of Buffalo NY, three -- 8500, 8501 and 8579 -- had Trainphone fitted but 8502 did not. Possibly 8502 was from the start intended to work exclusively as a shifter within the big Ebenezer classification yard, while the other three worked as proper road-switchers and so could use Trainphone while out on the main..

[@nickmanley2551]

The one great thing (IMHO) about Rapido is their manuals. They are written with a glorious sense of humour. Keep it up Rapido!

[@sailormatlac9114]

Many find these manuals offensive because that sense of humour gets really old fast when you need actual help.

[@SamsTrains]

Yeah - they are very amusing to read, but the humour/jokes get in the way in my opinion... a little inappropriate when you're looking for information! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@kiwitrainguy]

It makes them sound like a bunch of idiots.

[@michaelh7518]

Not only are the manuals funny, nice cover looking like a manual cover for the prototype loco, and the funny videos. They do 3D scans, record a real loco pulling a load for the sounds, other manufactures apparently only record a parked loco. They have videos of them recording the sounds of a real loco, not just claiming they do. They are the only company that make a number of diesels mostly used in Canada I think, which I need because I would model CN, and need M420, RS18, and Tempo train, no one else does those. Rapido have good passenger coaches of different eras. The passenger coaches, although I do not own one of theirs, have apparently great roller bearings, and a good capacitor to keep coach lights on for a few real scale feet of dead track. They have a lot of detail, which makes it easy to remove pieces. They send replacement parts at no cost to me after I lost pieces and sent an email to Rapido. They fix for free if asked. In 2019 the RS18 run had some decoder and motor issues. They put out a serious KZbin video explaining it, them switching motor manufactures and eating the cost of more expensive motors, shown how to fix the decoder, as usually they will fix for free. My stuff from them works fine as well.

[@michaelh7518]

@@SamsTrains It is not inappropriate, send an email or call for a serious issue.

[@ohiovalleyrailfan]

I have one of these engines at home but IMO I don't think this review did it 100% justice. OFC I have to agree that detail and performance are awesome but as I've replied below to some people opening up one of these isn't as hard as you think. It's like riding a bike- you do it once and subsequent times its all muscle memory. Of course by not opening up the hood of the engine you missed some incredible stuff on the inside such as 12 individual LED's (two headlights, eight class lights that alternate between green/white on DCC, a ground light and gauge lights inside the cab. There's also a 5 pole motor with dual flywheels, a 21-Pin DCC socket, and a built in speaker that iPhones use, so upgrading the engine to DCC sound is very easy. May not be a 10/10 fot you, but it is for me- especially for the Trainworld price. If you want a real good Rapido American diesel- check out their F40PH, E8, or upcoming U25B.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks very much for the comment! Glad to hear it's not as hard after some practice, though that's still not much use as breakages can happen on that first occasion - I just think they should be simpler to access full stop. That sounds amazing though - wish I could have seen some of that!! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@hughm5996]

Buying a Rapido locomotive minus the ESU decoder is like buying Nike shoes without the laces. It’s less expensive than buying a decoder later and you’ll have the correct sound files if you get the DCC equipped unit.

[@lawrencewehren8968]

Rapido is a Canadian company, not an American company. the models however are made in China.

[@sharkymcsharknose2979]

For anyone interested in the Rapido RS-11 or its Canadian counterpart the RS-18, Rapido has posted two relevant videos on its KZbin channel. One is about how to remove the shell ("How to open up your RS-18 and RS-11 locomotives"), and one addresses potential motor failure issues in the DCC-fitted RS-18 ("How to prevent the RS-18 DCC motor issue"). If you want to chip your DC RS-11 or RS-18 its also worth a look. I own two Rapido RS-11s and one RS-18, and unfortunately the RS-18 is undergoing warranty repair for a failing motor. To Rapido's credit, they have owned up to both issues and are rectifying them for future models. They're no longer using the vendor of the motors with high DCC failure rates, and the next run of RS-11s/-18s will have shells that are easier to remove. Rapido customer service has also been very helpful with providing replacement detail parts for ones that broke when I first opened one of my RS-11s. My RS-18 will get the improved motor. Now, if only a certain British manufacturer that rhymes with "Cornbie" were so up-front with their customers.

[@LisbonRailProductionsandF1]

Hello Skarky, i am Vasco, nice to meet you, how are you doing, i watched some of your videos, and they look amazing, keep up the great work, subscribed your channel, Greetings from Portugal.

[@ohiovalleyrailfan]

Please PLEASE PLEASE have Sam notice this/pin it/etc. I was going to say the exact same thing! The Rapido RS11 is actually very easy to open up, the reason why Sam couldn't get it open is because he forgot about the four small clips underneath the cab. I tend to push those out with a small flathead screwdriver before wiggling the cab off. Then its just removing the short hood and long hood to access the interior. Like the guy above me said, watch that "how to open up your RS11" video. It helped me with opening up my RS11 for the first time to intsall DCC/Sound.

[@oliver960]

I too lost a motor on mine (actually it was faulty out of the box). I decided to fix it myself instead of shipping back to Rapido, and they furnished me a new motor. Works great now, and as others have said once you open it up once it's not too bad. But the tolerances are very, very tight and there must be 10 feet of wires under the shell (all beautifully organized, btw). Impressive engineering all around.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks for sharing Sharky - yes that is good of them to own up to the issue and sort it out... Cornbie could certainly take a leaf out of Rapido's book! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@Zebrails]

@@SamsTrains "Cornby" needs to take a chapter out of Rapido's book... I've been a Rapido fan almost since their beginnings... exceptions to the motors (I've a Demonstrator RS11 that needs a new one), but I've never gone wrong with owning a Rapido product.

[@Elfnetdesigns]

Trainfone was the communications system that predated 2-way radios onboard the trains and in wayside equipment. A locomotive with Trainfone can be easily recognized by the horizontal antenna on the roof that looks like a handrail.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks very much for the info, appreciate it! :D Cheers, Sam :)

[@James-Railyard]

I have two Rapido locomotives coming in this year. The first is an EMD E8 Amtrak 4316, sounded with a wooden box and Certificate of Authenticity. The second is an ALCO PA in the American Freedom Train 1776, silent and normal box. Both will be upgraded to Tsunami 2 sound and will definitely have a prominent place in my fleet of steamers. Great video Sam! Always good to watch reviews on North American locos, I hope to get some UK locos soon. I really want one or two Caledonian 812 engines from Bachmann. Donald and Douglas were my favorite characters from Thomas and Friends.

[@SamsTrains]

Those sound awesome James - and glad you liked this too! The 812s are very good - well worth a look if you're interested! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@MrBnsftrain]

The odd locomotive out in the sidings is the GG1 as it's an electric, not a diesel. I'm also glad to see the Burlington Northern and Amtrak locomotives on your layout. I've wanted to see you run them (or put the on your track) for years! I'm glad you finally got an American Rapido locomotive reviewed! I've seen other people take a look at these high-detail models, but their reviews are not as high-detail as yours

[@SamsTrains]

Very well spotted! And yeah it was really nice to get all of those out together! And that's lovely to hear, I'll have to check out a few more models like this, Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@drosera88]

Hey! I suggested this thing back in August! It's great to see your take on it!

[@RailKingMell]

Fun fact. The "F" on American locomotives indicates that that the front of the unit. That the direction the locomotive will go when it moving in the forward position.

[@SamsTrains]

Ahh that's handy - thanks very much for sharing! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@bobdoyle683]

Hey Sam! Really enjoyed your review of the ALCO RS-11 (high nose) Rapido was when I was a kid, top-notch railroad HO and N scale model trains. I am positive you will like the RS-11. I worked for the Delaware & Hudson on the Pennsylvania Sub-Division (1st Sub). These high nose RS-11 were plentiful here in Wilkes-Barre, Scranton, and Carbondale, Pennsylvania. Yes, they are road switchers, RS series, but they were included in main line freight service, but performed YOEMAN duty as "PUSHER LOCOMOTIVES" between Mayfield, Pennsylvania and New York state line, pushing freights over "THE MOUNTAIN". They were one of the reasons the Delaware & Hudson survived as long as they did before being taken over by Norfolk/Southern and Canadian Pacific above Albany, New York. Alco was a good customer of The Delaware & Hudson Railway. We used these RS series and Century series. This review brought back many fond memories of both ALCO and THE DELAWARE & HUDSON (THE BRIDGE LINE BETWEEN NEW ENGLAND AND CANADA). Thanks Sam! Bob Doyle Delaware and Hudson Railway-Retired M of W. Forest City, Pa. 18421 U.S.A.

[@SamsTrains]

Hey Bob thanks for the comment. Thanks a lot for all the info, I've loved learning about these engines! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@bobdoyle683]

@@SamsTrains Sam, truly is my pleasure. I do enjoy your work and it is refreshing to get an honest opinion of all the trains, support equipment and things as such. I've always had an interest in Hornby. In the sixties, and seventies, they were around these parts and were BRITISH in manufacture. I was thinking of modeling them as I have a vast collection of German made Marklin, but enjoy British trains, BUT from my take on your reviews I'd say Hornby are hit and miss on the quality issue, and I believe a hobby should be a good experience and not more work as it appears Hornby would be (because they are Chinese). But anyway. Keep up the good work! Also every now and then do the American thing. As a retired railroader I can assure you if you track American equipment you will be awed by the raw power of our locomotives. Thanks Sam! Bob Doyle Retired M of W, The Delaware & Hudson Railway Co. Forest City, Pennsylvania U.S. of A.

[@sunnysiderails397]

Great Video and review, I've got a couple of Rapido HO scale locos and love them!!!

[@davidstrains4910]

Decent review there Sam while it isn’t for me personally Rapido are definitely the gold standard with model trains, the lengths that they go to are always amazing in my opinion.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot David - they certainly do make their models extremely detailed! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@sailormatlac9114]

Unfortunately, Rapido suffers from severe lack of quality control. Awesome designs and ideas, but not always well implemented during manufacturing. The list of severe flaws is long and having myself worshipped that brand in the past and purchased many products, I've been burned more than once. The hype is fading out in Canada and if you talk with hobby shop owners in private, they are no longer supporting the brand with the enthusiasm of a few years ago. It's sad because when they work well, they are indeed excellent. But when they fail, it's not so great even if the customer service genuinely try their best. Personally, it's no longer a gold standard.

[@xCandieAndiex]

In the context of the Pennsylvania (PRR) a trainphone was sort of a pre-radio method for train crews to communicate, used from the 1930's till about the 1960's. The label saying "w/o TRAINPHONE" is referring to the strange handrail type item on top of PRR diesels, cabooses and steam loco tenders. These were the antenna that allowed the crew to communicate. A quick "PRR trainphone" google search would give a better picture.

[@MarkusGustav]

I've got two Rapido RS18s, the Canadian version of the RS11, and they're fantastic. The owner's manual itself is worth the read just because of how hilariously it's written. These guys enjoy their work and it shows big time.

[@jimmyseaver3647]

ALCOs are absolute classics here in the States, in part because the company folded in the late 60s (though one of its subsidaries, Montreal Locomotive Works, would linger on for a while) and therefore aren't making stuff anymore. News that an ALCO is on the road, steam or diesel, is often enough to draw every railfan within a 100km radius. The RS-11 was meant to compete with EMD's GP9, both introduced in the late 1950s, but EMD's product proved to be leagues more popular. A little less than 430 of these things were built compared to well over 4,000 GP9s.

[@SamsTrains]

Yeah you do hear them talked about all the time to say how old they are - thanks a lot for the info! Cheers, Sam :)

[@jimmyseaver3647]

@@SamsTrains Happy to be of help. If you provide the reviews on American diesels, I'll provide the info.

[@509brown]

Rapido and ScaleTrains are my go to sources for HO locos. Thanks for the review.

[@stevenperry7493]

What a great review & good that you review from other parts of the world .That is a brilliant loco & you can’t disagree with the price .Runs well ,looks good ,excellent price ,a winner .After reviewing American locos ,it’ll be Europe’s Turn . As ever keep up the good work .

[@edwardvincentbriones5062]

Fun fact: There are two types of road switchers: long hood and short hood. Long hood means that the long front (engine compartment) of the locomotive is at the front and is designed to be driven forward on that direction while short hood means that the short front (cab compartment) is at the front and is designed to be driven forward on that direction. Since there is an F on the engine end of the locomotive, this is a long hood road switcher. I know it because I researched it.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks very much for this Edward, appreciate the extra info! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@edwardvincentbriones5062]

@@SamsTrains I wish I could put a heart on this. But I have no money for it.

[@matthewneleigh567]

Yeah, this is about what I've come to expect from Rapido- a beautiful model in smile-inducing packaging, with some engineering/manufacturing decisions that leave me scratching my head. The mechanism doesn't give me pause though- the way the trucks (or bogies, if you prefer) were built strongly resembles Kato's design, which other higher-end manufacturers (Atlas, Stewart, et al.) have either sourced directly from Kato, or copied in their own designs, over the years. It's a system that's been used in some of my best-running locos, and it's usually a welcome sight.

[@SamsTrains]

Very much so Matthew - it's exactly what I've come to expect too - largely in a good way though! Thanks for sharing, Sam :)

[@_KaiTheGamer_]

Wow that illuminated cab dashboard was genuinely unexpected! Never seen that before in a model. Not even american O Gauge stuff has that I don't think (and they have a *lot* of crazy features, if I had the room and tenure, I'd definitely go O scale). Sucks that the body shell is so hard to remove. Thankfully they seemed to have realized this, and have a video on their channel to better explain body removal.

[@SamsTrains]

haha it certainly was very unexpected - definitely a wonderful feature for HO. Yeah I heard they're looking to improve that situation - a very good idea if you ask me! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@michaeluden2848]

I have one of these, it's an SP Loco with sound and it's superb..I also have a German G10 ( 0-10-0 with permanently close coupled tender). This is the creme de la creme of German steam locos and made by a company called Brawa. Loco and tender is die cast construction and I would love to see a review of this on Sam's Trains

[@LUMEN.K]

I love your reviews! You explain everything so well !

[@SamsTrains]

That's lovely to hear, thank you! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@LUMEN.K]

@@SamsTrains Just a suggestion, perhaps you could try the "jouef" Brand (french). The trains they make are incredibly well made (in my opinion). Their level of detale is really high and the quality is practicaly perfect. There are ho scaled trains but no oo scaled trains unfortunately. It is worth trying this brand. Mimas

[@Jimmy_CV]

The flavor text on the side of the box reads like a sales ad for ALCO locomotive from the 50's

[@blackterminal]

haven't watched one of your videos for a year or so. hope your well. Great to see you doing another North American locomotive

[@creepy013]

Thanks for the review Sam, I own one of these locos and love it, (DCC sound) I don't believe you will be in any way disappointed with your loco, over engineered yes, but it shows in the quality. Great runners and the details are amazing. Cheers, Gary.

[@SamsTrains]

It's a pleasure Creepy - really glad you're happy too - overall so impressive! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@wraith3302]

Rapido is also making each one railroad specific. Certain details that were on the Pennsy model won't be on, say, the New Haven or Delaware & Hudson (which I am waiting on) model based on the prototype's various revisions throughout it's production run. For instance Pennsylvania might have the trainphone and running long hood forward, New Haven's units were equipped with steam generators for passenger service, D&H got theirs late in the run so they have different air filter and dynamic brake housings, and all of that is reflected in the model based on the railroad you pick.

[@SamsTrains]

That sounds good - thanks for the info my Lord! Cheers, Sam :)

[@AgainSay]

Lovely looking train and awesome video as always. Any chance you could do a video some time of your 0-6-0s that have all-powered wheels? 😊

[@kurf4376]

Very thoughtful review

[@adolphschmidt]

I just read this on the Rapido site. There's a lot more interesting info and diagrams for the RS-11 but this text deals with Sam's number one Complaint.... " On the first run of RS-11 or RS-18 locomotives the factory came up with a…. unique… way of attaching the body shell. For this new run we have completely redesigned the way that the RS-11 and RS-18 locos are put together. Now, instead of twenty screws, fourteen clips and three volumes of expletives the body is held in place by just three screws at each end. That’s it!" Obviously Rapido listens to Sam

[@SamsTrains]

Ahh that's very very good news - hopefully all of their new models will be equally simple! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@williamnichols467]

If you want a unique (and possibly weird) loco to review, look for one of the Geared Steam Locomotives, such as the Shay, Climax and Heisler

[@sambrown6426]

I would love to see his reactions to one of those, that would be rather hilarious.

[@michaelschultz5127]

Here's a suggestion for you mate, make British coach or van with one American coupler an the other side British. So then you can pull your other stuff too

[@SouRwy4501Productions]

Ah yes, an rs-11! These are an old favorite diesel of mine. They sort of reminded me of a gp7 or a gp9. I have an old AHM rs-11. It isn’t dcc equipped or even dcc ready, but it is still a good model nonetheless.

[@DCCSodor2]

Interesting to see you do an American Rapido release. Check out the gauges inside the cab, I know on DCC versions they light up, so I’d assume on the DC versions as well. Might be worth taking a look at their second run when it comes out, they’ve made a ton of improvements to the body removal. The standard here in the states on diesels is removing the couplers and the shell lifts off so they’ve become better about conforming to those standards, as the new release is said to do.

[@jetporter]

Sam if you think Rapido did a good job on this American diesel, I wish you could see their model of the Canadian "Royal Hudson" steam locomotive. My brother has one and it's utterly flawless. I've sent it to TRS Trains in Wales to have it fitted with functioning steam exhaust and cylinder drain cocks. I think you would be very impressed. It was a limited edition so not sure if there's any way to get your mitts on one. But they are doing a Canadian D-10 steam locomotive soon too.

[@lindaoffenbach]

Fantastic upload again. Us being quite new into the hobby we have heard and seen substantial good references to Rapido, them being relatively new to the hobby as well, always with a distinctive amusing humour. The latter being an acquired taste perhaps, but what they achieve for your money is astonishing. Your channel is a well good educational motivator for us as well. It always triggers us to look up matters so we understand all fiddly elements in the hobby much better, e.g. standards, about 12-24v ~13000 rpm micro motors and where to source them just in case, coupling solutions, LED’s, conversion, decoders… and the list goes on and on. Truly inspirational Sam. Someday our recent first layout in progress will see an American 3-unit EMD F which we highly desire. Rapido’s New Haven loco looks extraordinary as well, BUT if we cannot open her for conversion from DC to analogue AC and even trivial maintenance then it's an immediate no-no… Thing is, North-American manufacturing practices usually revolve around a very tight clicking systems instead of using screws to get costs down. We're not exactly keen on that. But oh well, lol, this hobby can become quite addictive already as it is hahah.

[@JulieAV]

On American locos there is >supposed to be< an "F" on one end of the frame. That means that is the front of the machine. Early Alcos usually ran long hood forward for hood units. Obviously not for the PA or FA locos.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks a lot for the info Julie - I'll have to look out for that! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@mrbluesky2050]

the 'F' is clearly visible on one part of the details section of the video

[@ROBERTN-ut2il]

Yes, it was. The ICC (now FRA) required it for all powered equipment other than steam. This was for reporting purposes in case of an accident. AS it might not be clear what end of the locomotive was being referred to in a written report. Similarly, one you knew what the front was, you knew which side was left and which was right (IIRC the ICC actually referred to them as Number 1 and 2).

[@michaelschultz5127]

That's why I love me RS series locos.

[@SamsTrains]

I don't blame you Michael! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@michaelschultz5127]

@@SamsTrains I thought that rapido's engines were only n scale, but you proved me wrong again. Great job please keep up the good work on your reviews. CHEERS MATE.

[@agentM1991]

ALCO or the American Locomotive Company it's one of the most storied locomotive companies in America. The company was based out of Schenectady, New York. Really enjoyed this locomotive Sam. I love how you're branching out from your comfort zone and showing off locomotives from different manufacturers at different types. Yes I do love steam locomotives but diesels are my favorite. An awesome locomotive by Rapido trains. You should consider reviewing some modern diesel locomotives like the Dash 9-40CW buy General Electric.

[@MosriteCharlie]

The train phone is the handrail looking conduit that runs the length of the engine along the roof. It was designed to help communications in mountainous areas

[@swiv99]

Ahh cant go wrong with rapido..some well made and detailed units

[@SamsTrains]

Yes very much so! :D

[@Mariazellerbahn]

19:00 On the Rapido pre-fitted DCC models, the motor destroys itself due to incompatibility issues, so best stay with analogue.

[@theastrononeer1211]

You should give a proto 2000 diesel a shot. They're also very detailed, but they have a far easier method for cleaning and servicing. All of theirs that I have seem come packaged with the body separate, in fact, as it just slides onto the chassis easily.

[@Dronesword123]

To be fair the decoders they sell stock in their engines are ESU Loksound which are awesome decoders and have amazing sound quality. If I was to buy a rapido I’d probably get one with dcc and sound just for simplicity, and I have other engines with ESU that sound killer. 🔥🔥

[@debbiemilka2251]

Sam ! Have a look at the door handles on the sides of the long hood. It looks like OO sized hands could operate them !

[@MosriteCharlie]

A note about ATLAS locos. The original ROCO made engines were made in Austria and were their base entry into the American diesel market. Detailing was basic and the motor used in those engines was the same used in their motorized turntable. Next were the locos made in Japan by Kato. These were the most desirable and had additional weight, better motors, and improved details Last are the Classic reissues made in China. These are more highly detailed but lacking the weight necessary to match the performance of the Kato models.

[@prestondickson6197]

Keep the American loco's coming! I really like what you have to say about them.

[@SamsTrains]

I sure will do, thanks Preston! :D Cheers, Sam :)

[@the_autism_express]

31:30 I would love to see a review on that Amtrak diesel soon

[@JustinFrazier_360]

So amazing review sam

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks Justin! :D

[@skylershummingbird1667]

The very shortcomings you've mentioned with accessability and basically forcing you to spend more for the sound ones is the reason people have shunned the first run RS-11 and RS-18s. Several friends of mine actually did succeed in breaking the hood attempting disassembly to add a decoder.

[@SamsTrains]

Yeah - it's not very customer-friendly is it? Hopefully their other models aren't this bad! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@TrainsAreReallyCool]

Yes! Finally an ALCO product! ALCO's are some of my favorite locomotives ever! I need to get one of these some day, probably in the new haven or lehigh valley paint scheme. Fun Fact: There are several RS11's that are still operating with shortlines around the northeast, over 50 years later!

[@SamsTrains]

Ahh that's awesome - and pretty impressive too that they're still in use! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@LexusRXGuy]

If you seen some of rapido’s videos you know they love to play around a lot.

[@realcanadian96]

Lets go! An Alco!

[@alcobufff]

Hi Sam! you finally got an Alco! Don't be hard on your self for damaging that engine when trying to disassemble it. I had to do so to install a decoder in one of mine. Found my self fixing broken railing and other detail parts and using strong language, the paint came off like crumbs from a crumb cake. According to some of my subscribers, the factory techs can't even avoid damaging the paint or bending the railings when working on these locos. On another note, do you think you could do a review of an Alco PA? I would be interested in seeing what you thought of this beautiful locomotive. Keep the great reviews coming!

[@Themodelrailer]

Would love to try some American locos at some point so will definitely add this one to the list

[@rcole51]

I believe in giving credit where credit is due. Most people here think Rapido is an American company. It is not! It is a Canadian company headquartered on the outskirts of Toronto, Canada. They manufacture exceptional models of Canadian, British and American prototypes. Just because they model American prototypes, there is no justification for stating it is an American company. Happens far too often with Canadian companies. Just setting the record straight.

[@adriannash2705]

Man, I feel like aside from the clips holding the body down this engine is absolutely going to spoil you Sam. I honestly liked watching this given that most reviews of American model engines are typically just them going over the details of it and don't really feature a rating system. I'm honestly really impressed it's in your top 3 at the present second, though we still have half the year to go. Hopefully it hasn't spoiled you too much and I can't wait to see what you review next. Also if you ever get a chance Athearn, MTH and Broadway Limited Imports make pretty good quality steam engines though a word of caution: American steam at that level of detail gets very pricy, at least the newer ones do. I have a Broadway Limited Imports (BLI for short) Norfolk and Western Class J with their Paragon 2 DC/DCC sound unit and it's one of the best engines in my collection but I'm pretty sure that when I bought it 8 or 9 years ago it was around $380-430

[@SamsTrains]

Oh for sure - an incredible model without any doubt! Really glad you liked the video, thanks very much! Cheers, Sam :)

[@AndrewTheRocketCityRailfan4014]

What your referred to as the running plate on a diesel is actually the frame of the locomotive

[@richardclowes6123]

Maybe Tiny Railfan can do a video to show how to get in it. Other than that, what a superb model.

[@Chaostheory1971]

Great review Sam! Hornby should watch this and take note.

[@SunnyJohn45]

I didn't read all the comments before posting. Please excuse any redundancy. Sam: The tanks with the piping under the walkway (no "running plates" in the US) are air reservoirs for the air brake system. The fuel tank is the boxy structure beneath them.

[@ChrisGBusby]

Have you tried Kato HO or N? I collect Japanese N gauge (Kato, Tomix, Green Max etc) and find it very good. I also have some American HO from Kato - again, superb running. Best running ever? HAG HO Swiss outline and Maerklin 3 rail digital - but oh so expensive.

[@LisbonRailProductionsandF1]

Amazing catches of the model train coming by and pass, I like it 5 stars, keep up the great work, Greetings from Portugal.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks very much Vasco, glad you think so! :D Cheers, Sam :)

[@ralphnoyes4366]

Value deserved a 4.5, IMHO.

[@gilbertporter4992]

I should mention Rapido is coming with a second run of RS-11 in HO scale this year. This new run coming has new tooling which allows the top to be easily removed for servicing/DCC installation as the previous run RS-11s were sort of a pain to remove according to customers.

[@Damien.D]

Thanks for this info.

[@SamsTrains]

That's very good to hear Gilbert - pity they didn't think of that for the original run, but better late than never! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@ianfernandez2735]

Did find another guy that did review a southern pacific version of the r-11 locomotive .his name is Daniel Cortopassi . he reviews american locomotive and rolling stock as well. Just hope this helps a bit.

[@L.J.T]

Hey Sam, noticed you ran it short hood forward (which is the back end) next time you run it the long hood is the front. Just to help in the future. Love your videos, cheers.

[@SamsTrains]

I'll do that - thanks for letting me know! :D Cheers, Sam :)

[@explorefassion63fuentes56]

Hi Sam I love your unboxing videos and I have have a suggestion maybe you should start reviewing trains from other countries I like British trains but sometimes i feel like you should also review model trains from other countries

[@SamsTrains]

Thank you! What about this one? This isn't British! ;D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@jeffreymcneal1507]

@@SamsTrains Bloody American. Blech. I do have a "Mini" which has a Russian provenance. It runs surprisingly well.

[@matyasselmek3673]

I was wondering. Will you try and review ČD Railjet analog starter set from PIKO? I'm going to buy my first set (starting with the hobby) and couldn't find any reviews on it.

[@train_man5975]

What set up did you use to get you’re crane to rotate back and forth?

[@briandesens144]

Awesome video Sam's trains

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks Brian! :D

[@briandesens144]

@@SamsTrains you're welcome

[@andresgarces10]

Lovely model it is. Nice video, Sam! Why don't you take a look at Roco o Trix models?

[@LIMowersAndMore]

Ah yes, I remember Alcos going pass my home station, I love them a lot! They’re beautiful powerful and Smokey!

[@SamsTrains]

That must have been awesome - thanks for sharing! :D Cheers, Sam :)

[@paulcarroll7767]

Very nice Sam :)

[@freebrickproductions]

Definitely a rather high-quality model. And I also quite like it, but I like anything with a "high hood" like that, lol.

[@exarkun42]

I think the folks that complain about the expense of American locomotives are going after Scaletrains Athearn and Broadway Limited Imports. I have an Athearn big boy, which is probably one of the 3 best in my fleet, despite the price of $650. Feel free to convert that. I can recommend it supposing you can afford it. The American Bachmann engines run a similar price to a Hornby pacifics.

[@SamsTrains]

Yeah some of the prices are definitely bonkers - I guess you can understand it for a big boy, but some of them make no sense to me... might have to try some and see! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@theredline2283]

You should test out a Broadway Limited model from the US. They are our top tier models and would love to have you compare one to your best of British models

[@SamsTrains]

They're definitely on my list, hopefully one day! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@coasterwoza106]

Please could you do a review of the 0-0-9 gauge Bachmann double fairlie please it’s a fascinating engine and I can’t find many reviews of this model!!

[@andykopgod]

I dont normally like American locos, they tend to all look the same, but i like this one, just hope it never breaks 🙈😆👍

[@SamsTrains]

I like it too... and I feel the same way... if it breaks, it's likely to be finished! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@jetbee1106]

I have an RS18. Had to send it back to replace the motor, also decoder had to be reprogrammed. Definitely watch the video on you tube if you need to service the loco. Also on many of the Rapido locos that I own, there are always small parts falling of, and I can never find out where they come from. They look great, run great, but not consumer friendly. They’re one saving grace is that they stand by their product and will fix or replace parts or the entire unit within reason. I think they put too much detail on the models, especially on their coaches, which you can’t see anyway. And finally, the prices here in Canada are absolutely too high. Thanks for a great review. Cheers!

[@SamsTrains]

Ahh sorry to hear that - I've heard there are issues with Rapido motors. And yes I had small parts coming off too when I tried to disassemble... otherwise it seemed quite sturdy. It's a good job they help when there's a problem... more than can be said for many manufacturers! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@hughm5996]

In Canada and the USA we have a thing called Digital Command Control or DCC. I read that things are tough in England but you should consider an entry level Digitrax or NCE system.

[@SamsTrains]

I do have a DCC system, and I use it to review models that come DCC fitted. This was analogue though, so I reviewed it on an analogue controller Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@cacline72]

If you want an American locomotive that has proper axle bearings older Athearn Bluebox and modern Athearn RTR locomotives feature square axle bearings on all axles, they're super robust and last pretty much forever.

[@thatoneguyfrom2fort]

This is one of those "Sam Goes USA" moments in my book

[@TheJmnewton]

Sam great video. But I wish you would have mentioned Rapido is a Canadian company. Not “American” as that would insinuate it’s a U.S. company. While America could refer to one of two continents, the term America usually means US.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks John, yea the company is Canadian, but it’s an American loco that was made in China… so the fact that rapido came from Canada didn’t really come up as relevant during the review, Cheers - Sam :)

[@rcole51]

As a British citizen currently living in Canada, I thoroughly disagree that it is not relevent to mention it is a Canadian company. That comment really floored me. Although it is manufactured in China, the concept, investment, engineering, design and prototype testing are all done in Canada by a Canadian firm. I would say that is very relevant! By ignoring this fact, people automatically assume it is American produced as supported by many of the comments. Other than the name of the railway on the hood, just what part of this model is American? I have seen you do this with freight cars that are lettered for Canadian railways. Seems to be a bit of an anti- Canadian bent.

[@thebigtrainguy]

In the ratings how is the goods train in the top right moving?

[@philipgardner7360]

Did they wack you with Customs & Excise on that loco...? I purchased a pair of Broadway locos and as I remember it was 25 %... Trainworld you said...are they reliable ?? Phil

[@pimpmyhogauge7873]

Hi Sam, I'd love you to review at some of the Roco and Trix european offerings to see how they stack up against OO manufacturers.

[@DieselElevators]

Lots of RS-11s still surviving in revenue freight service on smaller regional and shortline railroads as well.

[@SamsTrains]

That's good to hear - thanks for sharing! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@spagelsmegal]

I recommend you review the wombat models nswgr 30t engines as they’re a fantastic model with lots of detail and are worth the money

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks for the tip - I'll definitely look into those! :D Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@trainlandia697]

Can you get an HO scale Union Pacific Big Boy?

[@doyourememberme2904]

Hello Sam Love watching your video's just some heads-up notes on American Locomotives that you may Not know of is the Small F next to the Stairwell of a Locomotive stands for FRONT as the RS-1 started the whole F being put on locomotives reassuring Locomotive Crews which side was the Front of the Locomotive and Not the Rear, FRA Federal Railroad Administration requires every Locomotive ever built to this day have a F on them. Most RS-11 units are still used in Eastern Pennsylvania as short line railroads or either stripped down and turned into a Slug known as MT-4, Slug is like a F7 units B booster unit but without a Main Engine under the Hood only the Traction Motor are used as there upgraded for better use and the under the hood just Concrete Slabs for weight as the main Prime Mover Power Source was removed. If you look at your other American Diesels, you'll see the F on them. As for other little details which most don't know about is the small circler indentation near the Steps on the inner side of the walkway of both ends were known as "Push Stick" Outlawed by all railroads in the 40's due to lots of dead brakemen which would stand on the lower step of said locomotive and hold a long stick that would match up on same kind of circles on a Freight car to push them as of Early examples of Kicking Cars with a Twist as they could also kick Cars on either side of their own track that they were on giving them 3 tracks to kick cars from. If you're on Facebook checkout: Delaware-Lackawanna Railfans, which takes place in Scranton Pennsylvania as the railroad owns and operates more Alco's in the Whole United States every day of every hour pulling Freight, the FB site drops videos every day on service runs of that week.

[@SamsTrains]

Thank you so much for the pointers - that's really helpful, appreciate it my friend! Cheers, Sam :)

[@phil36310]

Hi Sam, not the kind of model I like but performance wise indeed it's a standard for UK. But EU loco's like Roco, Fleischmann, Märklin, Trix, Brawa etc have this 'Standard' for decennia. But not for the same price tag. I run a Roco Belgian Class 59 on my layout that is + 30 years young and I only serviced it ones. Pure quality and a 'diamond' standard IMHO ! Thanks for sharing.

[@SamsTrains]

Thanks Filip - appreciate you watching anyway! Thanks for sharing, Cheers, Sam :)

[@TheCiller10]

Ironrod eireann ran the 121’s cab first for mainline service ;)

[@miguelangelgarrido7233]

Hola buenas noche muchas gracias por subir el modelo muy bueno excelente el video abrazo grande😃👍

[@Zebrails]

"F" stands for "Front" like a class 20?... check out the video of when these were made by Rapido... Every road produced has its own specific numbering/detailing depicted, your Pennsy number did not have a train phone antenna, the other Pennsy RS11's did... Sam, I hope you truly enjoy your RS11... as little as you run your locomotives, you will barely need to service this one. It's that GOOD! John

[@RailRide]

A curious aside from another scale. I have an O Gauge SD50 road diesel by MTH in the Norfolk Southern livery. This diesel has a low short hood, so one would expect that it runs short-hood forward, right?. But this particular model is an ex-Southern Railway unit that was built to run long-hood forward for crew safety. The "F" designation is on the long hood, and in fact MTH set it up to run just that way :D

[@BeauMinnick]

The hand rails are wire that has been integrally molded with the plastic uprights. It's produced in one piece. Only Rapdio is doing that I think it's preparatory.

[@johndavenport6782]

Will simply adding weight to a model train (like a diecast footplate or replacing the body shell with a metal one), increase the pulling power of the model, and is their a limit to how much weight I should/can add?

[@SamsTrains]

Yeah - the more weight you add, the more pulling power the loco will have. But be careful doing this with weaker mechanisms, as it can also increase the strain on a motor, bearings, and gears! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@decidedly_retro]

Unmaintainability seems to be a thing with Rapido Trains locos. The APT-E is the same. When the sound on the DCC module failed soon after I got my model Rapido took the whole model back and replaced the whole thing rather than just sending a replacement chip or replacing it themselves.

[@SamsTrains]

Yeah so I've heard - that's a pity, at least they made things right for you! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@thedourkin]

Aesthetically, it's a beautiful thing. Sounds like it's technically great too.

[@ROBERTN-ut2il]

The PRR did NOT paint its locomotives black, they were officially painted Dark Green Locomotive Enamel. If you had a newly repainted loco in bright sun, you could see the greenish tinge. The exact color recipe is a matter of considerable and endless debate among SPF's (Slobberin' Pennsy Freaks) like me. It is often called Brunswick Green, but only some manufacturers called the paint they supplied to meet the specification by this name. Back in steam days, it was home brewed sometimes - often described as a handful of green pigment in a gallon of black. Stir thoroughly and apply. The "yellow" paint originally gold. But by the time the RS11's arrived it was synthetic Deluxe Gold - yellow to you, pal. The F was a government requirement as if you are reading an accident report it might not be clear what the "front" end was. Once you knew that, you knew which side was left and right. The small item under the cab is the Alco rectangular builder's plate, giving manufacturer, date manufactured and serial number. The large item is the trust plate. Few railroads actually bought their locomotives outright. They arranged with a bank or group of banks (a "trust") to buy the machine and then would lease it from them. The plate was there to establish who actually owned the locomotive. Trusts normally ran for fifteen years. At that point the railroad could give the locomotive back to the trust or decide to take possession - the trust plate being chiseled off then.

[@stuartaaron613]

Sam, it's a shame you didn't try one of Rapido's DCC/Sound fitted models. Along with great sound, Rapido also includes several "Easter Egg" sound files as well. They range from theme songs from old television shows, quotes from Star Trek (Jason loves that show), and other miscellaneous sounds.

[@SamsTrains]

I will have to try something like that at some point - it sounds good! Thanks for watching - Sam :)

[@sethandotts3763]

I recommend pausing at 3:54 and reading, it's quite funny