Product Features and Details
Polish Diesel Power Has Arrived — The Mighty PIKO SM31!
One of Poland’s most impressive heavy diesel locomotives comes to life in spectacular HO scale with the PIKO 52313 SM31. New for 2026, this imposing six-axle Co'Co' diesel combines the unmistakable appearance of the prototype with outstanding PIKO detailing, powerful performance, and factory-installed digital sound.
The story of the SM31 began in the 1970s when Polish locomotive builder Fablok developed a new six-axle diesel based on the successful SM42. Beginning in 1976, the SM31 entered service and quickly became associated with demanding switching and heavy freight duties. Its massive body, distinctive long hood, six driven axles, and unmistakably Polish industrial design gave the locomotive a presence unlike almost anything else on the rails.
PIKO has captured that character beautifully in 1:87 scale. The locomotive body features exceptionally crisp engravings and fine detailing, while the impressive bogies reproduce the heavy-duty appearance of the prototype. Particularly striking are the fine open-work fan grilles, multi-part fan assembly, separately applied railings and ladders, and numerous small details that make the model come alive when viewed up close.
Underneath all that detail is serious PIKO engineering. A powerful centrally mounted motor with dual flywheels delivers smooth, dependable operation through cardan shafts, while the substantial zinc die-cast chassis gives the locomotive excellent weight and traction. Two traction tires further enhance its pulling capability, making the SM31 every bit as impressive hauling a long freight train as it is sitting on display.
And this is the factory sound version! The locomotive comes equipped with a PIKO PluX22 Sound Decoder and authentic locomotive sounds, adding an entirely new dimension to operation. Digitally controlled lighting effects include cab lighting and running-gear illumination, while directional white and red headlights and taillights complete the experience.
Model Highlights
- New PIKO release for 2026
- Factory-installed PIKO DCC Sound Decoder
- NEM 658 PluX22 digital interface
- Authentic locomotive sound functions
- Digitally switchable cab lighting
- Digitally switchable running-gear lighting
- Direction-dependent white/red LED lighting
- Finely detailed and engraved locomotive body
- Freestanding railings and ladders
- Fine, open-work fan grilles
- Detailed multi-part rotating fan
- Highly detailed six-axle Co'Co' bogies
- Powerful centrally mounted motor
- Dual flywheels for smooth operation
- Heavy zinc die-cast chassis
- Two traction tires for excellent pulling power
- NEM coupler pockets with close-coupling mechanism
- Length over buffers: approximately 195 mm
- Minimum radius: 358 mm
- HO Scale – 1:87
With its massive proportions, outstanding detailing, powerful drive system and impressive digital sound and lighting effects, the PIKO 52313 SM31 is much more than another diesel locomotive. It is a spectacular recreation of one of the most distinctive heavy diesels to emerge from Poland.
Big, powerful and unmistakably Polish — the mighty SM31 deserves a place in any serious European HO collection!
