SUNSET MODELS 3RD RAIL AMTRAK GE P30CH "POOCH" - 2 RAIL
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Introduced in 1975, the General Electric P30CH, nicknamed the “Pooch”, was one of Amtrak’s earliest high-horsepower, head-end-power equipped road locomotives. Powered by a 3,000 HP FDL-16 prime mover and riding on distinctive C-C trucks, the P30CH brought new capability to Amtrak’s long-distance routes during a transformative era in passenger rail.
Assigned to trains across the Southeast, Gulf Coast, and Midwest, the P30CH powered services including the Sunset Limited, Crescent, and Chicago–Florida routes. With only 25 built, the class quickly became a rarity, making it a fan-favorite subject for modern Amtrak modeling.
Now, Sunset Models / 3rd Rail brings the P30CH to O Scale with exceptional accuracy. Featuring an ABS plastic shell, die-cast metal chassis, and brass detail parts, this model rivals brass in fidelity while delivering museum-quality presence and performance.
Phase II and III Road Numbers & Paint Schemes Offered
Model Features
• Precision ABS Plastic Shell with Die-Cast Metal Chassis
• Fine Brass Detail Parts for Maximum Accuracy
• Road-Specific Details — antennas, grab iron patterns, pilots, lighting packages, HEP equipment, and truck detailing
• Powerful Can Motor Drive for smooth, quiet performance
• All-Wheel Drive and Electrical Pickup
• Advanced electronics: 3R ERR Cruise/TMCC/Railsounds compatible with TMCC/Legacy/DCS, 3R Conventional for your choice of sound, and 2R ESU Loksound 5.0. Blunami is available as well
• LED Lighting Suite — headlights, number boards, markers, and strobes as appropriate
• Minimum Curvature:
– O-54 curves (3-Rail)
– 48" minimum radius (2-Rail)
• ERR Cruise is compatible with Legacy, DCS, TMCC, and Conventional control systems, Blunami is not and indepently operated through the iPhone or Andriod Apps.
A Unique Amtrak Workhorse, Now in Museum-Quality O Scale
The P30CH played a pivotal role in Amtrak’s modernization drive, introducing powerful new HEP-equipped locomotives to long-distance service. Their striking look, limited production, and distinctive service history have made them a long-requested subject among serious Amtrak modelers.
With its ABS shell, die-cast chassis, and brass detailing, this 3rd Rail P30CH delivers brass-level accuracy and presence in a refined, durable package.
Reserve yours today and bring the unforgettable “Pooch” to your O Scale roster.