IIRC, the difference between an NS C40-9W and a C44-9W is in the controlling software (it's a governor thing), and thus no difference can be made by looking at the units themselves (aside from C40-9W or whatever NS uses painted on the unit). Same with the ES40DC/ES44DC - it's a software thing.
As to the visual difference between the AC4400W and the C44-9W, they're subtle but they're there nonetheless. Look above the conductor side of the unit, at the electrical cabinet area between the cab and where the prime mover is. Those square vents that you see (two of them) are the dynamic brake vents. On the -9, these are situated closer to the cab, on the AC, they're situated closer to the prime mover.
The ES44 series are easily discernible from earlier units due to their large dual sectioned radiator. One of these sections (the one in front) is the air to air intercooler used for the engine. This one has smaller vents at a wider angle between the overhang and the hood. The section behind is the cooling radiator and has a more standard GE radiator appearance. The radiator also overhangs the rear of the hood, ala AC6000 (although not quite as protrusive). The difference between AC and DC is even more subtle on these units. On the engineer's side behind the cab, look for the two dynamic brake vents in relation to where the access door for the electric cabinet is. On the AC, both of these vents are next to each other, behind the door. On the DC, one vent is in this location behind the door, the other is immediately in front of it.
C44-9's have the Air conditioner unit mounted just behind the conductors seat on top of the walkway, C44AC's have them mounted under the conductors seat and a very large inverter box mounted where the AC unit is on the -9's, the C45AC's have lots of smoke and oil coming out of the stack with radiators that square off at the end of the carbody and an odd appendage just ahead of the rads that houses the air to air aftercoolers.
Is there anyway to tell apart the ES40DC's of the Norfolk Southern and the ES44DC's?
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The ES44s are easy, just look at the radiator. They are a good deal larger. You can also count the engine access doors, only six due to the 12 cylinder engine.
I have to admit that the later dash 9s and the AC4400s confused me too. The AC units have a large box structure behind the cab on the brakeman's side.
What are some easy ways to spot the differences between the ES44DC/AC, Dash 9, and the AC4400 locos? For the life of me, I can't see any difference between the models.
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