Switchers on Shortlines

[Anonymous]

Is it prototypical to have SW1200's and S1's hauling wayfreights on short line railroads?

[Anonymous]

Of course it is, not to sound "snotty" but have you been paying attention to the various RR magazines? Many former "Class-one" switchers have found their way onto shortline rosters. I suppose that in another ten years, we will probably start seeing GP-38's and SD-40-2's ending up on shortlines. Some already have.
Todd C.

[CShaveRR]

It doesn't even have to be a shortline...Grand Trunk Western bought its last SW1200s (1512-1519) in 1960 specifically for wayfreight service (they were modified with higher-speed gearing, m.u., Flexicoil trucks and handrails along the sides), and they were used in that service for about ten years before they were bumped by Geeps. When none of those units were available, we'd see some regular yard engines (AAR trucks, 40-mph gearing) in their place: NW2s, SW9s, SW900s, and even a couple of S2s. If we were real lucky (from a fan standpoint) we'd see one of GTW's two RS-1s, which were considered to be road units, but really didn't have the power.

[Anonymous]

Hi Todd--

That's just it, I haven't paid attention for about 15 years. When I was a kid I was a train nut and got started on an HO layout that was way ahead of my time, budget and skills. Then life happened and I forgot about it. But on a recent visit home, I gathered up all my stuff from my parents' basement, came home and built a 4x8 layout. My first train set as a child was a Lionel hi-rail set with a Soo SW, that is probably why I am partial to the switchers. They are also a good fit for 18" radius curves. I would just have hated to get going on this only to have someone tell me that "real" switchers couldn't do that, etc. (I am funny that way). Anyway, thanks for the reply. I will catch up on those magazines!
GF

[Anonymous]

Well, I am glad I could help you out with your question. Just remember one thing, in the words of the late Linn Westcott, "Model railroading is fun". This is a great hobby, you can either practice "strict" prototype standards, or do your own thing... I do, however, recommend picking up a few "prototype" magazines, just to keep abreast of things....


Good luck, and enjoy the hobby.
Todd C.

[Anonymous]

wow sounds like me, i have been out of the circle for a few years, now i jumped right in the middle again trying to catch up on all that has happened in the last... umm... 10 yrs or so.

so many company's have merged and altogether went out of bussiness.But you know i still have a great time sitting at the mainline , waiting to see the head loco..

[Anonymous]

Switchers definitely are in their element hauling locals on shortlines. Even Class 1's used them to operate locals. Unfortunately, most locomotives classified as switchers were not equipped with "potties". Therefore, road switchers were generally preferred by the crews.

[BRAKIE]

As was stated major railroads was not below using them on branch line or even main line locals if the need arised.

Remember this and you will do just fine and dandy.To railroads a locomotive is just a machine used to move trains and will use them in all service with no problems or apologies for doing so.I recall while braking on the PRR we used a F unit once on a intercity local.I have seen wide cabs on locals.

I think we modelers get more hung up on the proper way to use locomotives then the prototype.