Louis,
Unlike modern six axle power, the SD7 and SD9 series were designed for light rail / light axle loading applications. Most only weighed between 309,000 and 330,000 lbs or about 50000 to 55000 lbs per axle. They were intended for branch line operations where higher tractive effort was required Only later, in the mid 1960s did the six axle locomotive morph into main line road power. Modern six axle locomotives weigh between 396000 lbs and 430000 lbs or around 70000 lbs per axle which is near the limit for most main line rail in service today. Though the early SDs looked massive, they were lightweights compared to today’s power. So, operating on the branches out of Red Oak was quite feasible, but I don’t know if the traffic on those lines warranted such power.
By the way, SD9 no. 373 was only five years old when it slipped into the pit at Council Bluffs, IA.
Bill Barber Gravois Mills, MO
Sun Dec 13, 2015 2:57 pm (PST) . Posted by: December 13, 2015
Michael and Gordon - Thanks for further details. So 373 fell into the
Council Bluffs turntable pit. I had questioned Red Oak as it had a wye as I
recall and no turntable. Plus, a SD9 would've been too big and heavy for most
branch line turntables. Does anyone recognize where 373 and 1553 were
photographed? For modelers, here's proof that a badly damaged, yet repairable,
diesel was included in a Q scrap train. Merry Christmas - Louis
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Posted by: William Barber <clipperw@gmail.com>
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