C&NW Switchers

[Anonymous]

I need some prototype info on a C&NW switcher. It is an Alco RS-3, similar to this one: http://www.walthers.com/exec/productinfo/150-42038

The engine I have is slightly different than the one in the photo. The engine number is 1614, and is below the C&NW logo. In the place of the number is a large decal reading "Route of the Streamliners." Also, the nose and tail of the engine have diagonal green and yellow stripes on them. Those are the differences I noticed, at least.

I just need to know in what era this diesel could have run.

[Anonymous]

The "Route of the Streamliners" scheme is the scheme that C&NW's RS3's were delivered in when new in mid 1953. http://www.cnwhs.org/memberphotos/displayimage.php?album=search&cat=0&pos=13
I'm not sure of the exact date when they were repainted but I've never seen a picture of one in the 70's in that scheme. http://www.cnwhs.org/memberphotos/displayimage.php?album=search&cat=0&pos=2
So I would say 1953-to-late 60's but somebody who was actually around during that time would probably have a better opinion.

[CNW 6000]

According to http://utahrails.net/cnw/cnw-number-index.php

Numbers 1613-1618 were ALCO RS-3's. These 6 were active from 1952-1977.

I wasn't around during that time but I hope this helps!

[rrandb]

1621-1624 were also RS-3's. An interesting note is C&NW's 1624 was repowered by ALCO in March 1960, with a 12 cylinder 1800 horsepower 251 engine and a RS-11 long hood. That would make a great kit bashing progect and would still be protypical. ENJOY

[Anonymous]

Great! I wanted this to run in around 1957, so this is great news! Thanks a lot!

[dknelson]

I think your engine should be fine for 1957. It was pretty rare to see a CNW engine still showing the "Route of the 400" or "Route of the Streamliners" on the sides by the late 1960s, but there were a few, and certainly in 1957 they would have been pretty common although I do not think brand new engines were painted with that slogan in '57. The chevron stripes on the ends lasted longer, in modified form -- fewer stripes -- you could still see some into the 1980s. You might enjoy the book "Diesels of the Chicago & North Western" by Paul K. Withers. It is not cheap but it is loaded with photos and information. Also if you are not already a member, you should consider joining the Chicago & North Western Historical Society, get the excellent magazine and attend their conventions.
Dave Nelson

[Anonymous]

Thanks. Hey, isn't there a book out there on C&NW rolling stock, too? That'd be nice to have.

[dknelson]

There are a couple of books on CNW rolling stock
First the CNW Historical Society published a freight car roster as of the UP acquisition, with tons of pictures and info. It is one of the more complete freight car roster books around. Patrick Dorin has authored books on CNW freight and passenger service and equipment and those books have photos of rolling stock, including back in your 1957 era. I think TLC is the publisher. Of course the various Morning Sun books of CNW color have photos of rolling stock. And the North Western Lines, the magazine of the CNW Historical Society has had many fine articles on rolling stock with photos and equipment diagrams.
Dave Nelson