Dear HO Scale Customers;

Atlas is excited to announce New ALCo (American Locomotive Company) S-4 Diesel Locomotives

Prototype Info:

Alco introduced the S-4 locomotive in 1950. The S-4, like the earlier S-2, was a 1000 horsepower switcher. Nearly 800 units were built for North American (Alco) and Canadian (by Alco’s Canadian subsidiary Montreal Locomotive Works) railroads between 1947 and 1956. The primary spotting difference between the S-2 and the S-4 can be noted in the trucks. The S-2 has Blunt trucks, while the S-4 has AAR-style trucks. The versatility of the S-2’s and S-4’s was evidenced by their service in mainline railroads, shortlines, and industrial switching operations. The S-4, along with the S-2, became one of ALCO’s most success-ful diesel switchers, helping railroads transition from steam to diesel. Its rugged design and turbocharged engine made it a favorite for heavy switching duties. Canadian railroads were significant buyers, thanks to MLW production. Many units remained in service for decades, and several are preserved or still operating on short lines and tourist railroads today.

Features:

• 5-pole skewed armature motor for reliable operation
• Dual-flywheels for maximum performance at all speeds
• Exceptional painting and printing
• Sturdy die-cast mainframe and gear cases
• Metal couplers
• Silver Sound Ready

Silver Sound Ready

• Wired speaker and enclosure included for easy conversion to sound.
• Atlas Silver Sound Ready models are equipped with a speaker for easy conversion to sound with the addition of a decoder.

ESU Loksound Functionality Features:

• ESU LokSound decoder, supporting all DCC programming modes.
• Flexible mapping of function keys F0 to F31.
• Follows all NMRA DCC standards and recommended practices.
• Over 20 sound effects are available, including engine start-up and shutdown, prime mover sounds through all eight notches, bell, air horn, air compressor and more

About Atlas HO Scale Locomotives

Atlas HO scale locomotives are noted for their prototypical, fine details, printing, reliability, excellent throttle response, and smooth operation at slow speeds. They are often available in both Silver Sound Ready and Gold Sound Equipped versions, allowing you to choose which experience you want from your locomotive right from the start. Will you run with sound and DCC controls, or will you run them without with the possibility of upgrading later? No matter what you choose, your Atlas HO scale locomotive will provide you with years of enjoyment and smooth operation.

About Atlas Master Line Locomotives

Atlas Master Line locomotives and rolling stock are highly detailed models that faithfully recreate the prototype down to the paint scheme and even railroad-specific details. They are offered in two varieties--Atlas Master Silver and Atlas Master Gold. Atlas Master Silver locomotives are sound and DCC-ready, with the appropriate speaker and plugs so you can use whatever decoder you prefer. Atlas Master Gold locomotives are DCC and sound-equipped right out of the box, making them the perfect choice for those who don't want to deal with installing decoders.

About Atlas Model Railroad Company

The primary mission of Atlas is to produce and offer to the public, multiple scale lines of high quality, model railroad products based on prototype information. Atlas’ philosophy is based on a dedicated commitment to prototype research, design and construction. The desired and demanded goal is to create, market and distribute durable operational scale models utilizing the full range of exacting detail which accurately depicts life-sized objects, while providing exceptional service to Atlas customers.

By keeping up the high standards set by Steve Schaffan those many years ago, Atlas will remain a leader in innovation and technology in the model railroading industry for years to come. Although many things have changed since Atlas incorporation in 1949, they follow the tradition and values of their founders. As Atlas have for the last 50 years, they will continue to produce quality, precision products for the model railroad enthusiast.

Order Due Date: January 7, 2026

Anticipated Delivery Date: December 2026

Looking for more Atlas ALCo (American Locomotive Company) S-4 Diesel Locomotives? Click here!