Railroad Identification Book

[Green Bay Paddlers]

Is there one single tome out there that is the locomotive identification bible? I'm looking to ask for a book for christmas that will aid me in being able to identify locomotives as I'm out railfanning.

As it stands right now, I couldn't tell the difference between an SD40 and a GP9. How said is that?

I want to learn and get better. I'm a die-hard railran, but this has been one embarrassing inadequacy I've been too ashamed to admit over the years!

My name is "Green Bay Paddlers".... and I am locomotive-illiterate. There, I've said it. Can anyone help?

Best,

Jeff

[blhanel]

I'd probably start with this one...

http://store.yahoo.net/kalmbachcatalog/01113.html

[Anonymous]

blhanel sayeth:

I'd probably start with this one...

http://store.yahoo.net/kalmbachcatalog/01113.html

It points you to Greg McDonnell's guide to modern diesels. But if you want to go back in history, you just have to start with Pinkepank's DIESEL SPOTTER'S GUIDE.

Especially if you want to learn the difference in the two models you name.

Old Timer

[waltersrails]

go to www.thedieselshop.us or railpictures.net

[Mookie]

Jeff:

An additional book that helps me is the Official Locomotive Roster Book. I look up the railroad, the number of the engine and it tells me what it is. I can then go home and look up the pictures and explanations in one of my books. But at the time, I can see it is SD40 and how it looks, (number of round items on top...I think they are fans), and if they are a lease (FURX), what they are while I have them right in front of me.

If you want details, e-mail me.

Mook