Prairie Shadows, in partnership with Motown Models, is thrilled to announce our next HO scale locomotive: The Grand Trunk Western EMD GP9R.

In 1988, Grand Trunk needed a solution to their switcher fleet to replace their aging EMD GP9s. The decision was made to rebuild their GP9s into modernized road switchers. These units received upgraded electrical systems, engine components, structural updates and cabs requested by GTW. They also received larger fuel tanks, new air and braking systems, and even the original EMD 567 power assembly was replaced by EMD 645 components.

Between 1989 and 1993, 36 units were built in Battle Creek Shops in Michigan. 34 of the units were delivered in Grand Trunk red and blue while 2 units were painted in Canadian Nationals red and black “wet noodle” paint scheme. Even though these units were rebuilt in the 80s, Canadian National still has a few of these on the roster today and can be seen on home rails in the US and Canada. Due to being “modernized” and reliable road switchers, many shortlines have purchased  these units and are still running to this day.