Struggling to compete with GM’s dominance, Alco introduced its first diesel locomotive, the FA-1, in 1945. Alco realized that there was a tremendous demand to satisfy from the railroads phasing out steam power. The unit was designed as a dual purpose locomotive suitable for freight and passenger service. Alco produced almost 700 units from 1945 - 1950 for railroads all over the country. Features include: 4 wheel power trucks with traction tires, dual motors, flywheel coasting action, all metal gears, electronic 6-amp reverse board with directional lock-out, True Blast® Plus 16-bit polyphonic sound including prime mover, horn, and bell, durable ABS plastic shell, die-cast trucks, truck sides, and pilots, 20 individually installed grabrails, front headlights, etched metal grilles covering side vents and roof fan, die-cast operating front couplers, NEW! upgraded window parts, NEW! separately applied windshield wipers. Ages 14+.