description EMD SDL39 Overview
The EMD SDL39 is a six-axle diesel-electric locomotive developed by General Motors Electro-Motive Division for the Milwaukee Road. Ten locomotives were built in two batches, five in 1969 and five in 1972, for branch lines and other routes where low axle loading was important. The model uses a turbocharged twelve-cylinder EMD 645E3 diesel engine rated at 2,300 horsepower and rides on a short, lightweight frame with C-C trucks.
help EMD SDL39 FAQ
How many EMD SDL39 locomotives were built?
Only ten SDL39 locomotives were built for the Milwaukee Road. Five were produced in 1969 and another five in 1972.
How powerful is the EMD SDL39?
The SDL39 uses a 12-cylinder EMD 645E3 diesel engine rated at about 2,300 horsepower. Its six-axle design spreads that power across a lightweight C-C locomotive.
Why did Milwaukee Road order the SDL39?
Milwaukee Road needed a lightweight road-switcher for branch lines, light rail, and routes where axle loading mattered. The SDL39 was built on a shorter, lighter frame than many standard six-axle locomotives.
What happened to the SDL39 locomotives after Milwaukee Road?
Fleet histories include later service with Soo Line and Wisconsin Central. Some examples were eventually exported to Chile for service with FEPASA.
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