You are correct, Russ. Unit 462 was an Engineering test bed. IIRC, it
was originally an NYC F3 traded in to EMD. In addition to an early
16-645 engine, it also had the first EMD AC alternator (as opposed to a
DC main generator) including a version at one time that had water
cooled diodes. These never made it to production because the system was
difficult to maintain and technology was changing fast enough so that
when the production units were released in late 1965, (NYC GP40s) large
enough air cooled diodes were available.
As you indicated, the unit worked out of Clyde Diesel Shop so that our
Engineering people could check on the locomotive frequently and could
make alterations as needed. In those days, the Q was VERY accommodating
when it came to the development of new equipment; providing both track
testing ( as the photos indicate) and a place to make modifications. In
one form or another, the 462 lasted into the early '90s. In later
years, it and several other test bed locomotives were used as braking
units for other new locomotives undergoing testing in non revenue
operation at the Pueblo test center. As braking units, the dynamic
brakes are used to create a controllable load for the locomotive
undergoing test.
Bill Barber
On Monday, May 5, 2003, at 03:04 AM, BRHSlist@yahoogroups.com wrote:
Date: Sun, 4 May 2003 22:00:53 -0500
From: "Russell Strodtz" <vlbg@e...>
Subject: Re: Re: [BNlist] New CB&Q/BN photos....
Jan,
That was EMD 462. It was a test unit that was on the "Q" a great deal
in
the early 60's. Was kept fairly close to Clyde so EMD could inspect it
when they felt the need. IIRC it was the first unit that actually
operated
with a 16-645 block in it. Was not a demonstrator and was never sold.
Actually it was just a fixed up trade in but I can't recall from what
source.
Russ
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