This updated locomotive features:

• Bright-Lite Headlights
• Printed Number Boards
• MU Hose Detail
• Kato's Magnetic Knuckle Couplers
• Expected to be DCC Friendly and is designed for simple drop in decoders.
• Truck sideframes molded with high or low mounted brake cylinders as appropriate for the prototype
• Equiped with the new Profile Blacken Metal Wheels, similiar to those used on the recent P42 Models.

Powered by EMD?s 16 cylinder, 3000hp engine, the SD40 provided more pulling power than its SD38 predecessor at the cost of greater complexity and maintenance requirements with its turbocharged engine. Stylistically, the SD40 locomotives sported three 48 inch radiator fans at the rear of the long hood and a straight radiator section, unlike the flared radiator of the SD45.