Description

The EF71 was introduced as a dedicated AC electric locomotive for the Ou Main Line's difficult Itaya Pass section. The route from Fukushima towards Yamagata and Akita climbs through the Ou Mountains, and the Itaya Pass section was converted from DC to AC and double-tracked from 1968 to improve what had long been a serious transport bottleneck.

The EF71 was unusual among AC electric locomotives because of its large F-type body and was the first to feature electric regenerative braking. It was tailored for the Itaya Pass route, working as an auxiliary locomotive for trains such as the KiHa 181 Series 'Tsubasa', and also worked with ED78 locomotives on local trains including 50 Series passenger stock.

This model represents the JR specification with train radio antenna on the roof, making it a good match for the ED78 first type JR specification and 50 Series 2000 JR passenger cars.

Features

• First-order EF71 with large F-type AC electric locomotive body.
• Internally fitted tail lights and front ventilation openings reproduced.
• Original-style cab-side windows reproduced.
• Train radio antenna fitted on the roof.
• Slotless motor for smooth, quiet running.
• Headlights fitted, using warm-white LEDs.
• Number plates included for EF71 4, EF71 6 and EF71 9.
• Manufacturer's plates included for Mitsubishi and Toshiba.
• Headmarks included for 'Akebono' and 'Kamoshika'.
• Arnold coupler fitted as standard.
• Replacement knuckle coupler included.