This Bachmann HO-scale train set appeared in company catalogs from 1989 through 1993 and its contents remained constant over those five years. The set boasted 105 pieces, which included an over-and-under track plan with steel rail section track (pre-dating the introduction of Bachmann’s E-Z Track) that included the Over/Under Blinking Bridge (46-1222) accessory set and Operating Dual Crossing Gates (46-1220).

This version of the train manufacturer’s Empire Builder offering is of note, as it included the Mehano-made EMD GP18 diesel locomotive. The majority of equipment in Bachmann’s line came from Hong Kong/Taiwan/China facilities operated by parent company Kader. This Yugoslavian-made four-axle GP18 began its career in the catalog of Associated Hobby Manufacturers (AHM) in the mid-1970s. You’ll also find this GP18 offered over the years from Model Power. This set shows a Union Pacific GP18, but you will also find red-and-silver Santa Fe GP18 diesels in late 1980s/early 1990s Bachmann packaging. Though this locomotive did not make any appearances as a separately available release in the company’s annual product catalogs.

This set’s rolling stock included a 42-foot three-dome tank car, 42-foot steel gondola, 42-foot open quad offset hopper, 41-foot wood stock car, a pair of 51-foot steel plug boxcars, and 36-foot wide vision caboose.

Additionally, this version of Bachmann’s Empire Builder set came with a 24-piece railroad and street sign set, 12 telephone poles, power pack, and “Bach Man” instruction manual. The set carried stock numbers 00340, 340, and 40-0340 during its 1989-1993 run.