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SKU: RPI-16327-PRE

PREORDER Rapido HO 16327 Budd RDC-1 Phase 1b, New Jersey Transit #554 | 237.45

10% down: $23.75
Our Price: $237.45
MSRP: $249.95

Note: You will reserve this item today for a 10% down payment of $23.75. Approximately 30-45 days before your item is expected at the warehouse, we will invoice you $213.70 plus shipping and any applicable taxes.

How Preorders Work

Expected release date is Jan 16, 2026

Quantity
30-Day Hassle-Free Returns

Description

The Budd RDC-9 was introduced in 1956 for the Boston & Maine as a "powered trailer", designed for use with two regular RDCs in a three car consist. It was a motorized coach powered by a single motor and containing seating for 94 passengers. Lacking control cabs or end windows, it was not designed for independent operation but was controlled by controls in a coupled RDC.

Many Budd RDCs would linger on into commuter services for various commuter agencies in the northeast. Some of these commuter operations would bundle the RDCs in sets of four or more cars, creating good-sized consists. (Or eleven for CP!) Other roads would operate them in pairs or even singles on lighter branchline routes.

Do you run freight operations and question why you would need any RDCs? Well we should mention that MOST of these commuter operations ran over major freight routes. In fact, many of these runs would tie up freight operations daily in the AM and PM rush hours. You too can recreate dispatcher frustrations by running a set of commuter RDCs right out in front of a waiting freight train.

The Rapido Trains HO scale RDC locomotive features:

Accurately scaled from prototype blueprints
Roadname-specific details including bell position, single or double rear headlights, with or without battery boxes behind cab, horns, CN or BCOL style ditch lights and more!
An insane level detail with air filters, many separate pipes and moulded traction motor cabling and air/control pipe runs.
Optional split cooling radiator for CN and BC versions. (Polybag Kit)
Heavy, die-cast chassis with a powerful motor and dual flywheels
Operating headlights, ditch lights and rear lights
Operating factory-installed rock lights on BCR locomotives
Fully operational class lights
Operating step lights and track inspection lights
Newly tooled & accurate cab interior
Newly tooled fuel tank and trucks
Separate grab irons and handrails installed at the factory
DC/Silent (DCC Ready) or DC/DCC/Sound (ESU LokSound) with twin sugar cube speakers
Factory-installed couplers mounted at the correct height

Prototypically accurate versions including the RDC-9 - a first!
Loads of roadname-specific details
Accurate dimensions
Separate grab irons and handrails installed at the factory
Accurate Trucks by version
Full underbody detail
Lit numberboards and headlights
Rapido’s proven drive system
DC/Silent (21-pin DCC Ready) or DC/DCC/Sound options
Macdonald Cartier magnetic couplers installed at the correct height

Preorders: Frequently Asked Questions

What is preordering and why would I want to do that?

In the model railroading world, most products are made in limited runs. Manufacturers no longer produce large quantities to sit in warehouses. Instead, they announce new items and set a preorder deadline. After that date, production is based largely on the number of reservations received.

Preordering through Model Train Stuff guarantees your spot in line for these limited releases. When the products arrive, orders are filled in the order they were placed. The earlier you preorder, the better your chance of getting your items, even if there are shipping delays or shortfalls from the manufacturer.

Preordering is as easy as 1-2-3!
  1. Preordering is available on any item with the word "Preorder" as the first word in the product title.
  2. We will email your invoice approximately 30-45 days before your preorder items land at the warehouse. With the interactive invoice you can select your preferred shipping method and pay the balance of your order right online!
  3. We'll ship you your preorder once your invoice is paid online. 

How can I place a preorder?

To place a preorder, simply look for items marked with "PREORDER" in their title on our website. Add the item to your cart and proceed to checkout. You'll be required to pay a 10% non-refundable deposit to secure your reservation.

When will I be charged for my preorder?

You'll be charged a 10% deposit at the time of placing your preorder. The remaining balance, along with any applicable sales tax and shipping charges, will be due when the item is ready to be shipped. We'll notify you via email with a link to complete your payment.

Can I cancel my preorder?

Preorders can be canceled, but please note that the 10% deposit is non-refundable and will not be credited to store credit, as it goes toward covering the cost of the uncollected reservation.

When will my preorder ship?

The estimated shipping date for each preorder item is listed on the product page. We'll also keep you updated via email if there are any changes to the shipping schedule. Once your final payment is received, your item will be shipped according to your selected shipping method.

What happens if a preorder item is delayed or canceled by the manufacturer?

In the rare event that a preorder item is delayed or canceled by the manufacturer, we'll notify you as soon as possible. You can choose to wait for the item, apply your deposit to a different item, or request a refund or store credit for your deposit.

How do I check the status of my preorder?

You can check the status of your preorder by logging into your account on our website and viewing your order history. We'll also keep you updated via email with any important information regarding your preorder.

What if I have more questions about preordering?

If you have any further questions about preordering, feel free to contact our customer service team. We're here to help you with any inquiries you may have.