Walthers has anounced some additional F7B Ubits with and without Sound. Here are the details:

* All-New Drive
 
* 14:1 Gear Ratio for Easy Multiple-Unit Operations
 
* Helical Gears for Ultra-Quiet & Smooth Running
 
* Five-Pole, Skew-Wound, High Torque, High Efficiency Can Motor
 
* Heavily Weighted for Maximum Traction
 
* Painted Metal Grab Irons, Ladder Stand-Offs, Handrails & Lift Ring
 
* Roof Panel Weld Lines
 
* Correctly Sized Bolt Heads
 
* Complete Scale Fuel Tank w/Hangers, Battery Box, Air Tank & Underframe Detail
 
* With or Without Dynamic Brakes to Match Prototypes
 
* Correct Style Lighted Numberboards
 
* New Insulated Diecast Magnetic Knuckle Couplers
 
* Full or Partial Fuel Tank Skirts to Match Prototypes
 
* Correct Grab Iron Style & Placement for Each Roadname
 
* All-New Sideframes w/Road Specific Journals
 
* Operating Diaphragms as Appropriate
 
* Etched Metal Farr or Horizontal Grilles
 
* Visible Details Behind Grilles & Under Fan Covers
 
* Dual Mode QSI Sound & DCC Sound and DCC-equipped models can be operated on either DC or DCC layouts, and feature authentic model 567 prime mover recordings that include exhaust, improved throttle notching and transition sounds for change in traction motor electrical connection during acceleration, road-specific horn tone to match prototype, bell, squealing brakes, doppler effect, air let off and much more.
 
Mainline freight service was the last stronghold for steam power in America. By the late 1930s, diesels had proven themselves as switchers and as power for the new streamlined trains, but there were doubts that they could ever be practical in freight service.
 
That all changed in late 1939 when EMD rolled out its brand-new FT locomotive. Borrowing some basic design elements from E series passenger power, but in a shorter, more powerful package, the demonstrator set out on a 35-state tour that covered nearly 90,000 miles. Railroads were amazed at what this single A-B-B-A lash-up with its incredible 5400 horsepower could do, and orders came quickly. With its proven track record, EMD was the only builder allowed to construct road diesel power during the materials shortages of World War II.
 
Starting in 1945, the basic design underwent a number of changes, resulting in the F2, F3 and F5. But with the arrival of the F7 in 1949, EMD had exactly what the railroads needed to begin dieselizing with a vengeance. The F7 retained the 1500 horsepower 567B prime mover of the F3, but with better electrical equipment, it had a tonnage rating some 30% greater than the earlier model. The units could be geared for freight or passenger service, and were equally at home in either assignment. Over the next four years EMD built over 2200 A and 1400 B units, which were delivered in a rainbow of schemes to nearly every railroad in America. Tough and durable, many soldiered on into the early 70s and several have been preserved.