Is either unit operational, and does either one retain its original 20-cylinder 645 prime mover? The 8973, is supposed to be (besides the ubiquitous 8954) the only other SD45-2 I know of that may be operational on the CSX; it’s now part of the REDI school in Alabama. As for the HLS1, I still don’t grasp the concept of how a load test unit works, and if they retain their engines. (I know what they do, but not how they work.)
HLS1 is still a 20 cylinder unit that produces 3600 Horsepower. This unit is still in good condition and is used around the clock at CSX Huntington Heavy Repair Shop in Huntington, West Virginia. What is meant by a test unit is, it is used on our test track so we can test the units that we have rebuilt or repaired against it. HLS1 is worth its wait in gold to our shop.
Oh, that makes me extremely happy to know that SD45-2 is still 100% original and operating. Must be music to your ears!
Here’s a pic, just for good measure. Lookin’ good!
