Rapido is willing to produce GN U25B ‘Phase IV’ locomotive models in HO scale, including GN’s nonstandard ‘five step’ step well, a feature missed on previous ‘Phase I’ models. Also included: side mounted handrails, prototypical snow plow pilot, two-piece windshield, upward sloping nose, and fireman’s side nose-mounted ratchet handbrake. Two road numbers are planned, in both DC and DCC.

But they’ll ONLY be available if 100 reservations are made at the GNRHS store. Terms:
•    A non-refundable deposit of 25%
•    Order deadline is January 2025
•    Current expected delivery in 4th Quarter 2025
•    DC price $239.95
•    DCC with sound price $349.95

Paint scheme would be as-delivered in simplified orange and green with post-1968 cab roof warning flasher. Rapido may offer additional road numbers if the order minimum is met.

Great Northern’s ten Phase IV U25Bs, numbered 2514 to 2523, were delivered during May of 1965 and initially assigned to the Havre Freight Pool for Minneapolis to Seattle service on trains #97 and #83 westward and #82 and #88 eastward. Further historical details available here.

For better or worse, build-to-order has become a reality in the modern hobby market. Let’s act now to take advantage of this opportunity to secure a never-before-produced Great Northern model.