MTH ELECTRIC TRAINS

Producing 3,000 horsepower and achieving a top speed of 103 mph, F40PHs have regularly traversed this country - perhaps more than any other locomotive. When it was created by EMD in 1976, it was intended for short-haul and commuter trains heated by head-end electricity, but the unit was chosen over the SDP40F, another EMD cowl unit, to head Superliner trains. Once that decision was made, the 500-kw alternator and 1200-gallon fuel tank wasn't adequate. The unit was modified with an 800-kw alternator and an 1800-gallon fuel tank. The F40PH evolved from the SD-45 and SDO-45 designs. The B-B cowl type locomotive proved remarkably versatile and dependable. Whether heading Amtrak's San Francisco Zephyr and Empire Builder or servicing commuter lines across the nation, the F40PH became an instant railfan favorite.