I don't believe any SW1 calves were built. Remember, a calf isn't a slug, but a B-unit for a switcher. (I seem to recall at least one industrial operator converting an SW1 to a cabless remote control locomotive, though.)
There is at least another operator using them: remote former Ferrocarril Chiapas Mayab (now Ferrocarril Del Istmo de Tehuantepec) in Yucatan, Mexico, that runs GP40-Slug sets. These are very useful as this railroad runs heavy trains on the Merida-Campeche-Medias Aguas section, mostly a light armed flat line that doesn't allow high speeds.... That's where slugs find all their convenience. The picture below displays GP40 #201 in the background and its Slug mate #201B in the foreground. This Slug #201B appears to be a former GP35. Dom
Would I be able to get a C30-7 in Z? Even better a U30C I hope to make a cabless BN unit #4500. Sort of like a slug.
I took this photo of a loco and a ex. CR slug: http://www.trainboard.com/railimages/showphoto.php/photo/7469 The history of both locos is listed below the photo. The slug started out as a Alco RS11.
Ok , trying to come up to speed with some knowledge.....what is the difference between slug and booster? I know it is more than the difference between a shot in the arm and a slimy garden pest....... Loren
Loren, a slug, has the prime mover remove, and gets it power from a mother engine. A booster or b unit has the prime mover, but it has no cab.
John, It seems from the pics I've seen that a scratch built or kit bash would be a simple thing to do, what say you? Loren
John, I should have asked this in the previous note. If the prime mover is removed and the power comes from another unit, then is it just the electrical power that is being transferred to the axle motors of the slug? It appears from the pictures that we are viewing both slugs and boosters? Still in learning mode, but growing somewhat brighter, Loren
The one I posted is a slug, no motor. Just MU cables transferring power to the traction motors. The CSX units are also slugs even though they look like a regular loco. All the side engine doors are gone and sheeted over with metal. Most slugs are full of ballast/weight for traction. [ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Od82dLs9qsw"]YouTube - Ohio Central train[/ame]
Loren, The slugs that still look like a standard locomotive usually still have the engineers control stand, and can be used by an engineer to control a train. The slugs that are cut down, like the one in the video from Chris333, are oftentimes used in yards to free up other units for road duty.
Thanks guys, I think it is only a matter of time until we see someone kit bash a slug or two. Time is my limiting factor. Who will be the first in Z scale? Loren
To start on a unit like the CR one I guess one could start with a fueltank and trucks from am MTL GP35. Maybe have the bottom of the motor against the bottom of the fueltank to make more room for the low hood. I'm not a Z'er if ya can't tell by now. Just a wild guess. Am I on the right path???
No Loren, the booster is not providing a "boost" to the slug. A booster is a complete engine without a cab.
Well then the MTL duce that is coming out!!!:tb-biggrin: BN 7500, 7501, 7502 SD40-2B!!!:tb-cool: or the 7600 SD40B.
I'm not sure to understand what you're meaning here, but as far as I know all these are true locomotives: SD40-2, GE B30-7 or U30B, and a third engine which is a GE as well. All are locomotives, manned or not, with prime mover, fuel tank and traction motors.:tb-wink: Dom
