You all might know from my signature, but I’m confused. The SD70M is a locomotive I really like. It’s the first locomotive I got a picture of, and I just really thought it was a cool locomotive. I also like the way it sounds. Is this locomotive an AC traction locomotive? Does it have radial/steerable trucks?
Thanks! Justin
An SD70M has dc motors; and the SD70MAC has ac motors. A stencil on the cab or front nose usually identifies the model.
Steerable, radial, trucks are an option chosen by some and rejected by others. Radial trucks are somewhat distinctive with links between axles, not the brake rigging, if you can get close enogh to a slow train at a crossing.
A “SD70M” has DC traction motors.
A “SD70MAC” has AC traction motors.
Both models have radial-steer trucks.
The SD70M has been replaced by the SD70M-2, while the
SD70MAC has been replaced by the SD70ACe.
In the two newer models EMD has offered a choice of radial or non-radial trucks. With both models some buyers have chosen radial trucks and some have chosen a non-radial truck. The non-radial truck is cheaper.
Right thnaks!
Are thay retiring the M’s and MAC’s?
Which railroad are you asking about? Generally, the 70 series locomotives are not being retired but there are large numbers stored due to the economic downturn…
I doubt it, the 70’s are still fairly new locomotives I think the only ones that are retired are the wrecks.
However! Engines are typically owned by finance companies as is most rolling stock. To the best of my knowledge they are on a fifteen year depreciation schedule at which time they are kept, rebuilt and considered new again or scrapped. Shortlines or smaller railroads for years took the major railroad hand me downs up through GP 38 and SD40 engines. These big engines used today in class one mainline service just might not have anyone interested in them when their economic depreciation schedules are met as they are just not efficient as multiple purpose yard, and road engines combined. They are best when running flat out hauling tonnage and smaller railroads can’t necessarily justify the cost or usage. I would be getting pictures while they are still around. If I am not mistaken the entire UP fleet is leased from EMD and could be turned back in within the next five to eight years if something better comes along.