MTH ELECTRIC TRAINS

In 1948-49, EMD produced an important transitional diesel locomotive: the BL2. EMD used the BL2 to help explore options, to determine what kind of motive power would best serve railroads' needs in the coming decades. As originally designed, the BL2 was intended for light branchline work, and EMD did not think it needed to be equipped for multiple-unit operation. However, most railroads indicated an interest in MU flexibility, and EMD altered their plans to equip most of the units that way. Although the BL2 offered little in the way of mechanical advancement, the engine's intermediary appearance between cab units like the F-series engines and hood units like the GP7, which followed quickly on its heels, mark it as an important link in the evolution of the diesel engine. It combines a cab-unit windshield and semi-streamlined body with a bi-directional-looking cab and footboards and end platforms suited for switching. For the first time since 2001, the BL-2 returns to the M.T.H. Premier Line in redesigned form featuring spinning roof fans, opening cab doors and a host of additional details not present on the 2001 model. As always, the locomotive comes equipped with Proto-Sound 2.0 and an unmatched roster of features including Proto-Scale 3-2 Conversion-ready trucks that allow for quick changeover to scale wheels for 2-rail operation.