I was reading this in Feb. 2005 issue of TRAINS: Apparently Montana Rail Link was testing the new SD70MACe, borrowing some diesels from CSX for pusher service. The performance and fuel savings impressed MRL so much that they're placing an order for 12 of the same model. This is a break from the standard of Class 2s, which usually buy power secondhand. Not sure when they'll be built.......
Bob- As I understand the order, it should already be under way. I cannot recall when they're to be delivered. May sticks in my mind for some reason. I can ask on Monday. Remind me? They need to retire some of the older units. MRL has done well in keeping them going. But even that has a time limit. And those days are here. The fuel economy, and reduction in numbers of necessary units, to do the same jobs, really made their brass quite happy. Boxcab E50
I saw the same story in CTC Board however they say an order of 16 but 12 or 16 who cares this will make a nice new kit bash of an N scale motor for me. A lot of run through MRL power here in Denver.
Here's a post by Sean Graham-White in the Loconotes group on Yahoo!, concerning the 2005 orders by US railroads: "The February 2005 Progressive Railroading confirms the following orders: 200 C45ACCTE for UP 115 SD70ACe for UP 10 Green Goats for UP 1 TES for UP 150 ES44DC for BNSF 50 ES44AC for BNSF 4 Green Goats for BNSF 100 ES44DC for CSXT 16 SD70ACe for MRL (emphasis mine) 13 SD70ACe for BHP 2 Green Goats for KCS CN claims to not be purchasing any new locos in 2005. This article it not all inclusive -- the orders above are the only ones mentioned, not neccessarily all that have been placed."
And for further confirmation, click on this link for the definitive 411 on the new "Big Aces". (You'll need Adobe Acrobat to read this)
OK. Here it is. From within MRL, confirmed with their CMO. The order was indeed placed during November of last year. There will be 16 SD70ACe units, numbered 4300-4315. To be delivered the first week of this coming August. Boxcab E50
I'm V-E-R-Y excited about this one. Can't wait to see the paintscheme. Now if someone can produce this engine in N scale we'll be on the right track.
I can guarantee this- When those engines arrive, there will be a noticeable spike in Montana tourism! Boxcab E50
They usually send a bunch of run-thru-power right thru Cheyenne. If I see one, I'll post here with pics!
Harold- When the CSX units were out here as demos, and testing, it was a real circus. Camera happy fans everywhere. I didn't even bother thinking of going down to see them. When August rolls around, it should be a real zoo! MRL is the most interesting fanning in the region. There are guys planning on being there, flying in from Australia, and Europe! Boxcab E50
They aren't scheduled for delivery until August. So I wonder if construction has even begun yet. Boxcab E50
Speaking of pictures, Did you guys see these 2? One more reason for newer power. http://www.railpictures.net/viewphoto.php?id=94354 http://www.railpictures.net/viewphoto.php?id=94353
I don't think that is quite the right pic to describe the term "ballast scorcher" How did that happen??
Alan- It remains to be seen how many units are retired. From my source, some of those being replaced, will still be seeing future service. Some of the old Geeps have historical value. So I am hoping they won't be scrapped immediately upon retirement. Boxcab E50
Washington Corp., MRL's parent, has always been a loyal purchaser of EMD replacement parts for its various roads. One can bet that MRL got a great deal on these units from EMD. Times how they are for the builder I can imagine this was an order they took just to keep their people working. Besides, if history holds true EMD will make most of their money off this deal in the future on OEM replacment parts.
Brian- It's pretty much the same as most car/truck dealerships. The money is really made after a sale. Parts and labor in the repairs. Also, I'd not be surprised about disposition of the displaced units. Many MRL engines are leased out now. There is an ongoing repair/upgrade program. Older stuff may even find it's way to other places. Such as their BC operation. When I can pry further info loose, I'll pass it along. Boxcab E50
