Rapido (1108502) SW1200RSm Sweep – CN - Large Noodle #7102 – HO Scale – DCC/Sound – Pre-Order

The story behind the Sweep

In the mid-1980s, Canadian National was looking for ways to update its SW1200RS fleet for continued service. The first program was somewhat radical, and resulted in a locomotive that was unofficially dubbed a “Sweep.” This term came from combining the cab of an SW1200RS (SW) and the long hood of a GP9 (GEEP). The official designation was: GS-413a and GS-413b, respectively. All rebuilding work took place at CN's famous Pointe St. Charles Shops in Montreal.

As mentioned, the rebuild project used the frame and cab from the SW1200RS series while the hoods came off of retired GP9s. New air-intake filters were added to the (now) inoperative dynamic-brake blister section. The 12-cylinder 567C engine was upgraded with 645C power assemblies. The added addition of the larger GP9 radiators improved the cooling capacities, which in turn created an added benefit: an increase in horsepower, from 1200HP to 1300HP. The cabs were completely overhauled and received modified end-windows (two smaller top windows in place of the as-built single design), improved insulation and heating and a Canadian tradition: the hot plate and refrigerator. The rear door was also modified so that it swung outwards, providing better protection in a collision.

Despite the initial success of the rebuild program, the Pointe St. Charles Shops only produced eight of these neat road switchers, between 1986 and 1987. After life on CN, some of these Sweeps found their way to CANAC and eventually Savage Rail Services. But wait, there's more! We're also offering these in FOUR industrial color schemes to "roll your own". The possbilities are endless.

HO Scale Sweep · Model features