Hello Everyone---CP has chosen to use AC powered locomotives compared to CN's DC diesels---to be honest I can't tell one from the other.Can anyone point out any distinguishing features on these two types of locomotives
Here's CP---AC44CW 8521 and ES44AC 8780
Canadian National's ES44DC 2226 and C44-9W 2633
Hi Ed
I see there are different trucks on the 8521 The other roads I have seen have the same style trucks as the 8780. Was this a unique truck for the CP?
Charlie
If I'm not mistaken, those are self-steering trucks on the 8521. Those on the 8780 always remind me of the Challenger-type four-wheel trucks used on some early streamlined passenger cars - MDC offered them in HO scale.
Wayne
I believe some CSX units have 8521's style of truck, too. Mr Nutbar makes an interesting point -- there used to be a definite spotting difference between the 9-44CW and the AC4400, which was what I think is called the inverter box behind the cab on the conductor's side. Earlier 9-44CWs did not have this box, and instead had an air conditioner here:
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From remarks on the West Coast Rail Forums and elsewhere, it sounds as if GE would like to standardize on all AC locos. I would guess that putting the inverter box on the 9-44CW but not using it would be a step in that direction, and all I can think is that this took place late in 9-44 production.
The grill arrangements appear to be the biggest difference at first glance.
Bruce
Bruce has a point, too -- I think Mr Nutbar is comparing the two late prior-generation GEs, 9-44CWs and AC4400s. I think these do in fact have similar grillwork. When you move to the GEVOs, that changes for both models and as far as I can see is the same for both.
Great shots as usual. I notice they put some ties pretty close to the tracks. We never do that in the states.[
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It is a safety hazard
Great pictures guys, and it is nice to see what some of these cars look like from the layouts edge. Interesting loads.
I have a bunch of old brass track that I am going to cut to lengths for that scrap rail load. If I use a pair of dykes they will look OK, like they were sheared. A little rust paint and there you go. Brass track goes for a buck a bundle at the train shows without many people buying it.
Charlie
Charlie B Wrote:Great pictures guys, ...
... and great details.
doctorwayne Wrote:...and a few interesting freight cars, perhaps useful for modelling purposes:
And the proof is given by this view on floor of a modern car that wood is absolutely the best and most realistic material for modeling in wood.
Sorry, Reinhard.
Hello again---after looking at Doctor Wayne's photos,I see that our recent railfanning adventure was a lot more productive than I thought---his pictures of the freight cars added a whole different perspective on the scenes.Thanks Doc for opening my eyes---I'm usually so focused on taking pictures of the motive power that I overlook so many interesting items,I'm sure I would not have taken a second look at the 1925 tie-plate in my first photo had you not pointed it out.Here's a couple more of my typical photos.
cn nutbar Wrote:
Who owns that diesel ?
It's looking good.
Hello Joerg---4003 is a GP9-4 owned by Raillink.It must have just been repainted as there were no markings apart from the number.I took this shot as the locomotive was so clean---most of the time Raillink's locomotives are pretty grimy and well weathered