Kato 3087-1 ED71 First Version (N scale)

Overview

The ED71 was developed for the AC electrification north of Kuroiso on the Tohoku Main Line. In 1959 three prototype units based on the ED70 were produced with different specifications. Based on those tests, a first production run of 41 units was delivered over two years, followed by a second run of 11 units from 1962, for a total of 55 locomotives assigned to the Fukushima Locomotive Depot. The ED71 hauled passenger and freight trains on the AC-electrified sections up to the Sendai suburban area and helped pave the way for later AC electric locomotive developments. From 1965 the ED75 was introduced for routes north of Sendai and gradually replaced ED71s on faster services, though ED71s continued to operate south of Sendai. Some late examples were fitted with dual sealed-beam headlights. All units were retired from service by 1982.

Product highlights

- Accurately recreates the distinctive first production ED71 with rice-field pattern filters on the carbody sides

- Modeled as used around 1975 at the Fukushima Locomotive Depot

- Faithful reproduction of the side filters arranged in a square grid, rain gutters of a different length from the second series, and the electric heater indicator lamp located on the No. 1 cab side

- Beautifully rendered silver band wrapping from the front around the sides and silver finish on step edges

- Precisely reproduced rooftop equipment that captures the compact body size and the busy mechanical character typical of AC electric locomotives

- Front handrails, coupling release lever, steam pipe, whistle and other small details are factory fitted

- Headlight illumination with warm white LED reproduces the original single headlight design

- Slotless motor provides smooth and quiet running performance

- Equipped with Arnold coupler as standard; includes interchangeable knuckle coupler

- Selectable maker plates: Toshiba or Mitsubishi Electric / New Mitsubishi Heavy Industries

- Selectable number plates: 17, 23, 29, 31

This detailed scale model is ideal for collectors and model railroaders seeking an authentic representation of the ED71 first production series as operated from the Fukushima depot in the mid 1970s.