I know this may be a tricky question since there could be alot of variables. But I am just looking for an idea.
In good conditions on a flat rails, how many cars could a SW7 / NW2 pull? Say 50 foot modern cars loaded?
I am trying to get an idea for my model layout here. I have one coming and it occured to me that I have no idea what these guys could do in the real world. I have only seen them in the “HO” world and dont know what is realistic of this kind of engine.
Thanks.
On flat land, about 45 to 50, depending on the hp rating of the unit.
We use two 1500 HP MK1500Ds mu’ed, and I pull 100 to 120 car cut around with them all day.
We flat switch with about 40 to 50 cars a cut.
Ed
Here in flat Indiana a PC NW2 was good for 20 or 25 loaded covered hoppers at 130 tons each car.
NW2 = 1000hp
SW7/SW9/SW1200 = 1200 hp
SW1500/MP15/MK1500D = 1500 hp
It’s quite apparent any switcher in the 1000-1500 HP range could move a fair amount of cars. The relative lack of horsepower suggests that they weren’t going to move those cars too quickly.
I read somewhere that a 3 HP Briggs & Stratton could move a loaded boxcar around just fine. Just not very fast… Given a perfectly flat stretch of track, I would surmise that said B&S could probably move quite a few cars (assuming adequate traction and some really low gearing). Just not very fast.
Having experienced a 2400HP locomotive just make 25mph in notch 8 on a 2% grade with 4 pax cars on the drawbar, I know it wouldn’t take much more than an imperceptible rise in the track to stop the B&S dead…
Well all right then. I had no idea. But lots of good info which is exactly what I needed. I wa splannign on useing mune for some light road switching with around a dozen cars. Guess I am good… Thank you everyone