Craig Tambo Wrote:
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> They originally wanted streamlined power, and
> apparently the FPA4s were then (circa 1988) more
> readily available than EMD Fs. No, they never got
> any B-units, although the Grand Canyon Ry. did.
> They did buy an Alco RS-11 from the California
> Western. The intent was to scrap it for parts, but
> it turned out to be in pretty good shape so they
> used it instead.
>
> They also have two GE 80-tonners, a rebuilt GP9, a
> GP20 borrowed from Sierra Northern, and a
> high-nose GP38-2. I heard the new unit is supposed
> to be one of those Knoxville low-emission things
> (probably like California Northern got) but I
> don't know exactly what it looks like or why they
> would only get one. I've also heard that they are
> going to return two of the FPA4s to service. Of
> course, the plague has put a wrench in the gears.
> I too would welcome any news.
Of possible interest, FPA4 #73 was re-engined with an EMD 12-645 engine that burns compressed natural gas (CNG). It has a computerized fuel injection system that determines how many of the 12 cylinders are required at any given time.
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