Athearn Genesis presents the ATHG13343 GP15 - 1 locomotive in HO scale, representing the Missouri Pacific #1562 with DCC and Sound features. The mid - 1970s witnessed many railroads rebuilding their first - generation GP7 and GP9 locomotives. EMD capitalized on this by offering the GP15 - 1, which reused components from traded - in locomotives, provided tax advantages, and was competitively priced. The Missouri Pacific was quick to adopt it, using it across the entire system. This model comes with a host of features. MP - specific features include operating class lights, newly tooled MP - style “solid” handrails and pilots, dual spark arrestors, small EMD plows on both ends, and a single Firecracker antenna. Different road numbers have unique characteristics. For instance, #1562 has a front pilot stripe, a blue patch with an MP logo on the cab, and Blomberg M trucks. The GP15 series offers operating class lights (DCC only) and operating number boards. The Genesis diesel locomotive features coupler cut levers, MU hoses, trainline hoses, see - through cab windows, and a full cab interior. It also has DCC - ready features with Quick Plug™ technology and a 21 - pin NEM connector. Sound - equipped models come with an onboard DCC decoder with SoundTraxx Tsunami2 sound, dual cube speakers, and can operate in both DC and DCC. The EMD GP15 - 1, built between June 1976 and March 1982, was mainly used as a yard or light road switcher, and many still remain in service today. Specifications include 4 axles, DCC - equipped, LED lighting, and an HO scale.

Using your Athearn Genesis HO scale GP15 - 1 locomotive is easy. First, make sure you have a compatible track system. The minimum radius for this model is 18 inches, but a 22 - inch radius is recommended for smoother operation. If you're using the DCC function, connect it to your DCC system following the provided instructions. The locomotive is fully assembled and ready - to - run, so you can place it on the track right away. When operating in DC mode, the engine, horn, and bell sounds work. In DCC mode, you can access full DCC functions. You can also program a multiple - unit (MU) lash - up with lead - unit - only horn, bell, and lights. For maintenance, keep the locomotive clean. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the body and wheels regularly. Check the electrical connections periodically to ensure reliable current flow. The packaging is designed to securely hold the model for safe storage, so use it when the locomotive is not in use. Remember to handle the locomotive gently to avoid damaging the fine - scale details like the Celcon handrails and the McHenry® couplers.