N Scale Union Pacific FEF-3 Steam Locomotive Train 844 by Kato USA Model Train Products

The Union Pacific FEF (Four Eight Four) is one of the most iconic US steam prototypes still in operation today, alongside the GS-4. The FEF-3 series of steam locomotives was delivered in 1944 and were the last, and some of the largest, steam locomotives provided for use by the Union Pacific. While intended primarily for passenger service, the FEF's were utilized in secondary passenger and fast freight service due to the Union Pacific's substantial fleet of available diesels.

The Kato N Scale FEF-3 is based on its Southern Pacific 4-8-4 cousin, and boasts a high-power, flexible steam locomotive design that can be easily upgraded to DCC. It features a special, isolated coreless motor drive system with heavy-duty flywheels and a flexible cross-braced suspension system, providing the locomotive with high torque and traction grip for constant and consistent pressure spread across the primary drivers. The coreless motor system also allows for extremely low starting voltage, enabling the locomotive to achieve slow creeping speeds, providing modelers with an opportunity to appreciate the intricate moving side rods of steam operation. Additionally, the locomotive's unique "Centipede" style tender is equipped with special articulation mechanisms that allow it to navigate tighter corners seamlessly.

Other features of the model include illuminated headlight and locomotive numberboards, DCC friendly design for easy installation, and all detail parts installed and ready to run. The locomotive also has a minimum turning radius of 11" (282mm) on ground level track and 15" (381mm) on Viaduct track, and special cross-braced shock absorbers to maximize traction on the locomotive drivers.

The FEF tender does not have operational lights, but lighting kits are available for the special Water Tender cars (sold separately). Overall, the Kato N Scale FEF-3 offers a detailed and versatile representation of this iconic steam locomotive.

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