645 Union Pacific

Production: 1969

History
The 645 Union Pacific NW2 Diesel Switcher was the final of three postwar diesel switchers to carry the Union Pacific colors and logo. It was only produced for a single year -- 1969 -- and is a fairly difficult diesel to locate, especially in collectable condition. Additionally, the 645 was at the front of one freight set in 1969.

The 645 is largely a scaled down version of the 635 UP switcher last manufactured in 1965. With Lionel's focus on downsizing and discontinuing train production in 1969, the 645 represented yet another low point for a Lionel switcher. This version of the UP diesel used a plain, unpainted shell with minimal decoration and even removed the front number which was printed on the 635 switcher.

Features
Standard features of the 645 Union Pacific switcher include: unpainted yellow body with red lettering and side stripe, no Magnetraction however there was a ballast weight secured to the interior of the cab above the motor, plastic side frames on the trucks, two-position E-unit, non-operating couplers plus a single axle drive system with a traction tire. The 645 shell is mounted to a black sheet-metal frame with black end-railings. Finally, there is no simulated bell nor ornamental horn mounted to the shell.

An interesting point of reference to all postwar Union Pacific NW2 switchers is the lettering on the cab. Each side has its own unique letter:

• One cab side has the UP slogan Road of the Streamliners
• The opposite cab side has Serves All The West

Additional Detail, Photos & Box Information
The length of the 645 is approximately 12 1/2" long (coupler to coupler).

Only Known Variation - Shown in first photo above - All 645's are painted yellow with predominately red lettering and side stripes

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