John Eull photo Our last RDC production run focused on US schemes, which left our loyal Canadian customers crying out “What aboot us, eh?!” Well, now it’s your turn!
This run of RDCs is strictly new schemes from the Great White North 2019 NBA Champions! Included are RDC-1s (built with coach seating throughout) and RDC-2 and RDC-3 variants with compartments for baggage and/or mail. As well as using original blueprints, our 3D “scanning” team visited actual Phase 1 and Phase 2 RDCs to capture the classic features of these Budd beauties.
Our RDC-1, RDC-2 and RDC-3 models are produced in both Phase 1 and 2 variants. These “railfan” terms were never actually used by Budd, but they neatly describe the major differences between the early style of RDCs delivered between 1949 and 1956 and the “new look” RDCs built between 1956 and 1962.
Each model is extensively researched and will come with either Phase 1b, 1c or 2 roof blisters as appropriate. Other unique features such as end diaphragms and rebuilt light/numberboards on the cab roof are also faithfully reproduced where appropriate.
The real RDCs were built with two engine compartments under the floor and the second run of Rapido models continue to use our smooth running, twin motor configuration. This enables us to hide the motors in the actual motor compartments and include complete, fully-lit interiors and full underbody equipment to the level of detail and accuracy you’ve come to expect from Rapido.
So what's the difference from the previous RDCs?"
Now you might be saying to yourself “Why would I buy these RDCs again? They already made them!” and to that we’d tell you politely you’re incorrect. We’d even apologize for telling you you’re incorrect too. Sorry. RDCs were built in two general phases ... Phase 1 and Phase 2. There are very distinct spotting features between the two phases, enough to make them look totally different. In our original run of RDC-1s, if we made a scheme in one phase, we’re now offering it in the other! Talk about mixing things up! Whoever said “variety is the spice of life” really knew what they were talking about!
Phase 1 RDC Spotting Features
- Low headlight (CN later added their unique “top hat” headlights to these units to accomodate diaphragms)
- Fabricated truck sideframes
- Large cab and end-door windows
- Numberboards on the car sides next to the doors
- Optional, separate pilot mounted to body
- Small curved skirts next to the end steps
- Rooftop fluting ends in-line with the end doors
- Two sloped rectangular grills over the radiator/fan sections on each side separated by a solid pane
Phase 2 RDC Spotting Features
- High headlight (to accomodate diaphragms)
- Redesigned roof blister
- Cast truck sideframes
- Smaller cab and end-door windows, which allowed numberboards to be placed on the ends
- Horizonal rib added above end-cab windows
- Optional wrap-around end fluting
- Larger pilot integrated with the body
- Larger curved skirts next to the end steps
- Rooftop fluting ends short of the end doors
- Single grill covering entire rooftop radiator/fan section
Insane Level of Underbody Detail
Peter Cox photo courtesy Mark Perry The Rapido Trains HO scale Budd RDC-1, RDC-2 and RDC-3 railcars feature:
- Rapido’s acclaimed “stainless steel” finish
- Separate underframe piping and conduit Loads of roadname-specific details
- Working Gyralite & ditch lights (where appropriate)
- Fabricated or cast truck sideframes (as appropriate)
- Separate grab irons and front door chains
- Etched-metal roof grills and fan covers Lit number boards and class lights
- Detroit or Cummins engine sounds (as appropriate)
- Standard bell or E-bell sounds (as appropriate)
Become a Master
Our RDC Master class is full of useful prototype information, and helps highlight all of the different variations of units built.
Budd RDC Master ClassOrder Now!
Limited stock is still available
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SKU: 016701
HO Scale Budd RDC-1 (DCC/Sound): CPR - Maroon w/Hockey Ph1b #9050$US 359.95Out of stock -
SKU: 016703
HO Scale Budd RDC-1 (DCC/Sound): CPR - Maroon w/Hockey Ph1c #9055$US 359.95Out of stock -
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