Modernized Athearn Rio Grande SD40T-2: Unboxing and Prep for Sound / DCC

At about the same time Scale Trains released their definitive SD40-2 tunnel motor, the folks at Athearn realized a need to upgrade their own SD40-2 tunnel motor. The Athearn model is not as feature rich as the SxT release is. While I love the Rio Grande, it isn't my first priority. I saw an opportunity to get into some impressive looking units at an affordable price point with this new Athearn release.
The SD40T-2 remains a distinctive and imposing example of a locomotive purchased new by only three railroads. Yes, I'm counting SSW as its own railroad.
In this episode, we take a quick look at the packaging. Then we remove the shell and take a look at what will be needed to begin a sound decoder installation in this beautiful HO scale locomotive.
Other DCC and sound installation videos from BH&E:
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