Help Save SP's TE70-4's!

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I found this in the Trains.com forums, and thought “The more the merrier.” Someone is trying to save Espee’s four last remaining TE70-4 “Popsicles.”

Here is the link if you are interested in learning more;

http://www.trainorders.com/discussion/read.php?1,958450

~[8]~ TrainFreak409 ~[8]~

2

Wow!! I did’nt think they still existed!!! [:O] The last time I seen them was back in the early 80’s in one of the Train Magazines!! Increditable!! I noticed in some of the replies on that forum there’s a chance of saving at least one to a museum. Has anybody called up any touring railroads? If I only had room in my backyard, I would put some tracks around the tree past the dog house, toward the porch! Now that’s what I call a GARDEN RAILROAD!!! I hope you can find a good place for these classics!!!

3

I had the pleasure to observe the Popcicles when in operation. They are among the least known examples of SPs policy of continually upgrading older power to meet current demands. I hope at least one finds a home with a group able to see to proper preservation.
Dave

4

I have read conflicting reviews of the “success” of these units while in operation. I think the major problem with them was the fact that there were just 4 of them. Small numbers become orphands on a railroad, this was a problem with Alco units on some railroads. Orphands don’t receive the time and care they need to survive.

But as a railfan I would like to see at least one survive.

5

My understanding is the Swiss designed Sultzer engines were too labor intensive for SP who also questioned the long term relibilty. In a design gaff, the cooling systems were combined, leading to overheating issues on substained grades and in tunnels. SP was in good company ,the Sultzer experiment was no more sucessfull over on the Union Pacific who converted on SD45.

Dave