The RSD-15 was powered by an Alco 251 16-cylinder V-type engine. The locomotive rode on 3-axle trucks with all axles powered by GE model 752 traction motors. The trucks have asymmetrical axle spacing because of the position of the traction motors.
The six-motor design allowed for higher tractive effort at lower speeds than a similar four-motor design. The RSD-15's could be ordered with either a high or low short hood, and the low hood versions quickly earned the nickname "alligators" due to their unusually long noses. Independently controllable lights in each RSD-15 model: Headlight, Rear Light, Cab Light Front & Rear Numberboards Paragon4 Sound & Control System featuring ROLLING THUNDER Integral Dual-Mode Decoder with Back EMF for Superb Slow Speed Operation in DC and DCC Precision Drive Mechanism Engineered for Heavy Towing and Smooth Slow Speed Operation All Wheel Electrical Pick-up ABS Body with Die Cast Chassis for Maximum Tractive Effort Prototypically Accurate Paint Schemes and Road Numbers Many Separately Applied Details such as Handrails, Grab Irons, Horns, Bell, and Antenna Prototypical Light Operation Prototypically Accurate Sounds for the Alco RSD-15 Diesel Locomotive MicroTrains-compatible couplers (2) Will Operate on Code 55, Code 70, and Code 80 Rail Minimum Operating Radius: 9 inches Operates in DC & DCC with improved DC speed control (use DCMaster for DC Sound) Built-In extra capacitance to navigate imperfect track Pro Lighting Mode offers individual control of all lights on model Switcher Mode for precise low speed control Record & Play Operation - Records and plays back sounds and movements once or repeatedly for automatic operation High Resolution Audio Quillable Horn for various whistle lengths and patterns Choice of 3 selectable Horns Alternate Whistle / Horn where applicable for locomotive with air horn and steam whistle - both the main whistle and alternate can be easily played Adjustable bell ringing interval for faster or slower bell Numerous user-mappable functions with available keys Multiple realistic passenger and crew sounds play on command Grade Crossing Automatic Signal Automatic Forward / Reverse Signal Prime Mover sound intensity varies with load Individually adjustable sound volumes for each effect EZ Reset Button for quick return to factory default settings Specifications on this page subject to change. THANKS FOR YOUR INTEREST IN OUR ITEMS.