New Product Spotlight – American Flyer Norfolk Southern Heritage ES44ACs

We introduced our American Flyer replicas of Norfolk Southern’s now famous Heritage Series of locomotives in 2012. This year we are completing the run with the remainder of the twenty locomotive fleet including a new-to-S Gauge ES44AC!

6-42531 – Reading SD70ACE

Shortly after their introduction, these locomotives were turned loose on Norfolk Southern to perform daily chores just like the rest of the roster. They can show up almost anywhere at any time on any train. Several have even made it well off of Norfolk Southern’s rails, being seen as far away as Washington and California. Despite their “regular roles” the locomotives are still required to be washed monthly and crews will often take the extra time to make sure they are in the lead on a consist whenever possible.

6-42542 Central of Georgia ES44AC

Whether you are a fan of modern era railroading or just like seeing a favorite fallen flag back again, these locomotives have something for everybody. And our American Flyer models are designed to please as well.

Both the SD70ACE and ES44AC models have similar features. Powered and non-powered models of each scheme are available with unique numbers. Powered locomotives include:

6-42552 Norfolk and Western ES44AC

• LEGACY Control System – able to run on LEGACY, TMCC or Conventional power. The models are also DCC enabled.
• AF Speed Control with on/off switch for maintaining an even speed through curves and grades
• LEGACY RailSounds featuring
  • CrewTalk and TowerCom announcements with varying scenarios based on the train’s motion
    

    6-42546 Interstate ES44AC

  • Eight diesel RPM levels
  • LEGACY Quilling Horn
  • Single hit or continuous mechanical bell
  • Independent volume control
• Two maintenance-free motors
• Front and Rear ElectroCouplers
• Mounting holes and support plate for scale couplers (sold separately)
• Pivoting Pilot allows for operation on tight curves with better appearance
• Operating headlight, ditch lights, illuminated number boards and detailed cab interior
  

  6-42544 Conrail ES44AC

• Traction Tires
• Metal Frame
• Fan-driven smoke unit
• Die-cast metal trucks, pilots and fuel tank
• Separately applied metal details
• Cab window glass
• Engineer and conductor figures

Non powered locomotives feature:

6-42548 Lehigh Valley ES44AC

• Metal Frame
• Die-cast metal trucks, pilots, fuel tank
• Front and Rear operating couplers
• Separately applied metal details

6-42550 Nickel Plate ES44AC

All locomotives will negotiate S-36 curves. All come with American Flyer wheels but can be switched to scale wheels which will be available separately through Lionel Customer Service. ES44AC locomotives retail for $529.99 (powered) and $269.99 (non-powered.) SD70ACEs retail for $479.99 and $239.99.

6-42535 Virginian SD70ACE

In addition to the locomotives, separate sale cylindrical covered hoppers are also available decorated in complementary schemes for each road name. Twenty of these would certainly create a colorful consist! Cars retail for $79.99 each.

6-42558 Norfolk Southern ES44AC

If you are looking for colorful modern power for your American Flyer layout, it doesn’t get any better than this. Keep your eyes open for these Heritage Units coming to the rails and hobby shops near you!

6-42556 Southern ES44AC

6-42537 Wabash SD70ACE

6-42554 Pennsylvania ES44AC

6-42533 Savannah & Atlanta SD70ACE

6-42560 Monongahela ES44AC