EMD F59PHI Question???

Model Railroader Prototype information for the modeler
1

What generation is the F59PHI? Is it 2nd or 3rd generation??

Thanks

2

Since they showed up on the scene in the mid to late 90’s I’d say 4th or maybe 5th generation.

3

Interesting question. The original meaning of “first generation” diesel was an engine designed to replace a steam engine, while “second generation” diesels were bought to replace the first generation diesels. So an FT bought in 1941 would be first generation, the GP-30 you bought when you traded in the FT to GM in 1962 would be second generation.

4

Thanks!

I just wanted to know, because I was looking into maybe buying a sound decoder for my HO scale F59PHI from Athearn.

Let me know if you have any decoder suggestions.[swg]

Thanks Again…

5

The way I see it, GP/SD7-GP/SD35 was first generation. All of those used the 567 engine. Then GP/SD38-GP/SD50 was second generation, using the 645. GP/SD60-SD90MAC was third, they used the 710. Now we have the SD70ACe and SD70M-2 with Tier II technology, thus 4th generation. I’d say since the F59 was really a GP59, which was really a GP60, it would be 3rd generation.

6

Thanks 4884bigboy!

I guess learned something today! [swg]