Especially #6 "ACCEPT THAT YOU DON'T KNOW EVERYTHING"!!

Last summer a rental car showed up at our yard with a couple of fans who "were here to see the SW-600" I informed them that we had four SW-8's, a SW-1200RS, a SW-900 and an of course, our well-known ex-Portland Traction SW-1 #100. I informed them that we didn't have a SW-600 and they might have our SW-8's or SW-900 confused since they share the same carbody as the 8-cylinder units which only have one stack.

After several minutes of discussion and their pointing to the #100 I realized they were here to see the SW-1 which was still being referred to as the "SW-600". I escorted them over to photograph it and moved it so the light was better.

Now, not to be arrogant or anything, BUT i've had this locomotive since 1987, have completely overhauled it, ordered parts from EMD by model and serial # and KNOW it's an SW-1 with a 567A engine and D-15C main generator. BELIEVE ME it's an SW-1 built in February 1952...LONG before the SW-600 was introduced.

Not until I went into the office and produced a copy of the "Diesel Spotters Guide" and pointed out the differences between the two would they accept that it was ACTUALLY an SW-1!

The joys and pitfalls of shortline railroading!!

As I remember an old SP safety poster from the '60's that simply stated "MANY CARELESS MEN ARE FOUND...BURIED SIX FEET UNDERGROUND" take this time to wish all a prosperous SAFE and Happy New Year!

Dick Samuels
www.oregonpacificrr.com