Piko H0 52997 Diesel Locomotive BR 118 FDJ of DR

Model railway enthusiasts operating a Deutsche Reichsbahn (DR) layout in Era IV will appreciate this H0 scale diesel locomotive. The Piko BR 118 in FDJ livery brings a distinctive piece of East German railway history to your collection. With its die-cast metal chassis and detailed plastic body, it offers reliable performance on DC two-rail systems.

Key specifications

• Scale: H0 (1:87)
• Gauge: 16.5 mm
• Power system: DC (2-rail)
• Era: IV (1970-1990)
• Railway company: DR (Deutsche Reichsbahn)
• Livery: FDJ (Freie Deutsche Jugend)
• Locomotive class: BR 118
• Locomotive type: Diesel locomotive
• Digital interface: NEM 652 (8-pin)
• Lighting: Directional LED lighting (white/red, changing with direction)
• Coupling system: NEM 362 shaft with close coupling kinematics
• Minimum operating radius: 358 mm (R2)
• Traction tires: Yes (2 traction tires)
• Flywheel mass: Yes
• Sound capability: Sound prepared (decoder not included)
• Chassis material: Die-cast metal
• Body material: High-quality plastic
• Length over buffers (LüP): 190 mm

Why choose it

This model combines authentic detailing with robust construction. The die-cast metal chassis ensures stable running, while the flywheel mass and traction tires provide smooth operation even on gradients. The directional LED lighting enhances realism, and the NEM 362 coupling system allows for close coupling with other rolling stock. The model is sound-ready, so you can easily add a decoder for sound functions.

Ideal use cases

• Expanding a DR-themed Era IV layout
• Collectors of East German railway models
• Modelers seeking a reliable DC locomotive with upgrade potential

Good to know

The locomotive is designed for DC operation but is digital-ready with an 8-pin interface. A sound decoder can be installed later. The minimum radius of 358 mm makes it suitable for most standard H0 layouts.