As dieselization progressed, many roads found themselves in need of a compact, lightweight locomotive to replace steam power on branch lines and other over-the-road assignments (freight and passenger) not requiring a full-fledged mainline road switcher.  The SW1200 combined the right size and muscle for these assignments.
The SW1200 was made available with both Type A and Flexicoil trucks, and the Rapido model represents those options. Other features available on the SW1200 include different fuel tanks, unique spark arrestors, MU cables, folding end-platform drop steps and different lighting options as specific to each road.

General Motors Diesel (GMD) began production of the first 1,200-hp SW1200 switcher model in January 1954. Built until May 1966, over 700 examples of this versatile road switcher were built by EMD with an additional 280+ built by GMD in Canada.

The Rapido SW1200 model features:
• Heavy diecast frame, chassis and gearboxes for superior pulling power
• Rapido’s renowned smooth-running drive system
• Working number boards and classification lights
• Fully detailed Type A or Flexicoil trucks, as appropriate
• Full cab interior with working cab interior light
• Working headlights, inspection lights and illuminated number boards
• Separate handrails, including crash bars inside the cab
• Multiple exhaust stack and battery box door styles
• With or without working drop steps, as appropriate
• Incredible underbody piping and conduit detail – a Rapido hallmark
• DC/Silent or DC/DCC/Sound featuring an ESU Loksound decoder with accurate recordings from a 567 prime mover

* Road Number (was 1509)