BNSF has started to recieve shipment of 200 of their Dash 9s. And you thought it was all over! As if that were enough, BNSF is looking into Dash 9s without the desktop controls. Thats right, a C30-7 control panel in a C44-9W. Hmmmm, NS has it and they seem to like it right? BNSF is borrowing NS locomotives supposidly to test out the "new" controls. What is the advantage of these new controls? Engine hotlers like it because it is more comfortable to run the units in reverse. But as for ever seeing C44-9Ws in reverse on the point, I should hope not!!!!!!!!
Yet MORE C44's! Much as I like them, they are becoming a bit too plentiful The old style controls seems a bit of a retrograde step, although some engineers do not like the desktop controls, as there is not enough room for the knees, I understand! It will be interesting to find out the results of the 'tests'
Cn just had an order completed as well, along with BCR. I believe BCR is supposed to go shopping again in the near future, and its almost 100% that it will be the C44-9W, unless they go for some older GEs and rebuild them! Happy Railroading! Dane
I have heard some engineers say they do not like C44's, or even hate them! But there must be something good about them, with all the thousands which have been built! Surely railroads will not purchase locomotives on price alone, they have to be reliable, and haul the freight efficiently to keep getting repeat orders. Anyone have any idea just how many C44's are in service now?
Let us see: BNSF has more than 1000.... UP has about 300... NS has.... how much does NS have? the number grows every day.......... CSXT... i dont think they have much if any.... BCRail, more everyday...... In the battle betwene EMD and GE I would have to say GE is winning. Sure EMD is making 1000 SD70Ms for UP, but thats it. No other Class 1 has orders for any EMDs. UP even cancelled their SD90MAC-H orders. On the other hand, GE is popular. Their Dash 9s have been a whopping hit, and so have their AC4400CWs. Their AC6000CWs have been popular among CSXT and UP too, but to an extent. Hey, at least UP didnt cancel their order of AC6000CWs. With BNSF interested in their AC4400CWs and Dash 9s, GE must be having a wonderful time.
