Quick and dirty, ACe's are updated versions of a MAC. In fact around here we just call them "new MACs". I don't know a lot about them but I saw something about the SD70MAC not being up to newer EPA spec, and that was one thing the ACe's fixed. Also ACe's are 4300 Hp (I think) MAC's are 4000 Hp. Oh ya and they got a nose job. A face only a mother could love (or a railfan). But maybe I will stop smacking my head on the way in the front door. Adam
Meanwhile, from what I am told, MRL continues to tweak little problems with their order. I wonder if this experience is also typical of other companies units? Boxcab E50
I was in Cheyenne when UP was getting their "Big Aces", but I hadn't heard of any teething problems from the Borg. Jeremy, ya remember anyone saying anything about UP's new units?
I dunno if this is true or not, but UP was not allowing ACes to lead.. There were a few that did after they first came out, that I caught, but most of the time, GEVOz were leading. Is this still a problem? Back towrds the topic, I hope to catch some more ACez on Mullan gain this weekend. Pray for sunshine!!! Oh yeah, LA Diver and grant-sar will be hitting the hill with me. I can hardly wait!
I've only seen one Big Ace in BNSF colors since I've been here, and of course I didn;t have my camera with me. Gads, how embarrassing... Meanwhile: here's hoping for good weather in Montana!
I saw an ACe at the front of a train parked in the siding at Portola Ca.. back in October 05. They were in a maintaince window with work at Keddie, so I'm not sure if it really was the lead, but it seemed to be. I also so one leading a 40-2 a month or 2 ago West of Riverside Ca.
Definitely worth the effort to capture such a view. One of these days, maybe I'll get down there for a little foaming. Boxcab E50
A similar, earlier view, from a higher, and more westerly vantage point.. These are certainly better morning light shots!
A pair of ACez cut out from a double grainer at Elliston: These 2 ACez were spied at Blossburg on a WB doubled manifest of BNSF and MRL origins:
I am I correct in assuming that MRL is one of the few Class 2 railroads to have new and powerful locomotives like the SD70ACes?