I received the DECEMBER issue of RMC, I noticed that it had an article on EMC’s TA... R.I. TA the TA looks like a interesting Kitbash Tom
The TA is on the possible build list for Kato in the near future. Specifically, the Texas Rocket powered by a TA
The trainsets came in two lengths. But each had the train name on the nose, so someone who wanted to model another train that length would just have to change the name and number. Those locomotives were around for decades, long after the cars got different assignments. I think they ran trains like the Peoria Rocket and Rock Island Rocket right up to Amtrak. About the only visible change was the second headlight. They are pretty things. I guess that aerodynamic headlight didn't work particularly well, but the B&O EA, ATSF E-1A and Rock Island TA sure wore them well!
I think all of that first batch of Rockets had their names on the locomotive noses. Most didn't last long. The Rocky Mountain Rocket was popular enough that it got bigger--and new locomotives--within just a couple of years. Edit: But then again, it looks like you're right. I found an early publicity photo of one of them with no name in the nose. The Rocky Mountain and Kansas City Rockets were the other ones with the short trainset like the Texas Rocket.
All I want for Christmas is Kato to finally announce their intent to produce the Rock Island Rocket replete with EMC TA.
Actually 3rd Rail (Sunset ) has these on their current reservation page for both the 3 & 4 car sets in 2 rail and 3 rail O scale.
