Recently, the speculation about Guilford adding new/used motive power has increased. The idea that they will add units seems to be certain, but what's uncertain is will it be 6 axle or will they continue with their recent past history of 4 axle units...ie: the GP40 fleet. They don't seem to have a problem with foreign 6 axle units on the Mt. Tom and Bow unit coal trains, so it seems that could be a distinct possibility. Besides GP40s are, for the most part, well over 20 years old, and with the exception of a low price as a feature, the maintenance costs should be higher making them less attractive. What 4 axle or 6 axle units would work for them? How about GP50s or SD50/60s?...and how many are available in the used locomotive market? Bill
From what I have read, I would think there are 50 series locomotives available, but they have not been the most successful of the range. Not sure if any 60 series are free for purchase, but they would be a good choice if they decide to go with 6-axle power. It could be interesting to see what happens. But not so interesting as the 'old days' on the Guildford when they had a wonderful mix of power.
Hmmm, Guilford has always been one of my favorites, especially when they buy high-nosed ex NS units I wonder what they'll buy next too!? GP40's are not plentiful anymore (like they used to be). NS has actually started rebuilding their GP50's into GP38-3's.... they also returned a bunch of the SD50's they received from Conrail back to the lessor (don't know where they went). I guess we'll see what happens.... Harold
Yes Alan, I was chatting with some local GRS fans, and they agreed that the SD50 might not be the best choice. But it was also pointed out that most of the electrical problems have already been ironed out. They also agreed the SD50s are plentiful and inexpensive, so that might be the incentive. I still don't think they'd go for 6 axle units, but you never know. How about the B40-8s??? Seems to be plenty of those around. Anybody care to comment on the dash 8s? Bill
