description EMD F7 Overview
The EMD F7 is a classic American diesel-electric locomotive primarily used for passenger service. Manufactured by General Motors Diesel (EMD), it’s notable for its robust design and widespread adoption across major railroads throughout the 20th century. These locomotives are still operated today, particularly by regional lines and heritage railways, offering a tangible link to rail history. They remain valuable assets for transporting passengers and preserving railway traditions.
insights Why this score
EMD F7 ranks #15 of 248 in the Locomotive ranking, behind Norfolk & Western Class J 611, ahead of Chesapeake & Ohio Allegheny H-8.
help EMD F7 FAQ
Who manufactured the EMD F7 diesel-electric locomotive?
The F7 was manufactured by the Electro-Motive Division (EMD) of General Motors. It succeeded the earlier EMD F3 model and quickly became the best-selling cab unit locomotive in history.
When was the EMD F7 produced and used?
Production of the EMD F7 began in 1949 and continued until 1953. During this highly prolific period, EMD built over 2,300 A-units (with cabs) and nearly 1,500 cabless B-units for railroads across North America.
What was the EMD F7 used for?
While entirely capable of pulling freight, the streamlined F7 was heavily utilized in premium passenger service. Railroads often used them in A-B-B-A lashups to pull glamorous named passenger trains across their systems.
Are there any EMD F7 locomotives still operating today?
Yes, while they were heavily phased out of mainline freight service by the 1970s, dozens of F7s have been preserved. Many survive today in operational condition, frequently used by tourist and heritage railroads across the United States.
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