-
What is a winterization hatch, and what does it do exactly? I got an N scale Atlas SD-60M recently and it included an optional winterization hatch. It’s a UP loco. Do they usually have them on?
-
Is there any logic regarding the orientation of helper engines? Sometimes one is facing forward, sometimes backward. Is there a specific reason why helpers are facing forward or backward, or do they just slap em together like that?
A winterization hatch is ductwork on the top of a diesel that covers or partially covers an exhaust fan. It channels some of the hot exhaust air back into the diesel body to help keep the engine warm during cold periods. They are automatically opened or closed I believe by thermostats in the engine body. Since I live on the opposite end of the continent from where UP operates, I cannot say if their units have them. Many diesels here in Canada used to have them.
Diesel engines can operate in any direction. The diesel motors just make electricity to power the electric traction motors attached to each set of wheels. So the direction the engine is facing does not make a difference - unless it’s the lead unit.
I do not recall seeing any locomotives that UP bought having winterization hatches. However, I think some CNW locomotives had them. Looking at photographs, it appears that CNW’s SD60s did have winterization hatches while SD60s that UP bought did not have them.
CNW 8001
CNW Locomotives
UP 6004
UP Locomotives
UP GP9s came with the winterization hatch