ex-BN Wrote:
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> This discussion has brought up a point I've been
> pondering for years. What were the reasons that
> Amtrak wanted SDP40Fs instead of FP45s?


First, the FP45 model was NOT a "Dash 2" series model, and Amtrak wanted a "Dash 2" model passenger unit.

Amtrak was given a choice of a 3000 HP model, the SDP40F, and a 3600 HP model, which would have been the SDP45F, had they chosen that. Since the first order of 40 units was specifically purchased for service on the Santa Fe, the Santa Fe Mechanical Department had considerable influence of the model and its specifications. Thus, Amtrak chose the 3000 HP models.e. the SDP40F.

I'd guess
> it was a weight/room issue and most passenger
> trains have been fine with 6000hp for years
> including all those trains pulled by four F7s.
> But that's my guess.


A very good guess, based on the actual facts.

Does anyone have an insight
> into this?

Yes, as the EMD Sales Engineer for the first order of units for Amtrak, the stories I could tell would curl your hair.