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EMD SW1500

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description EMD SW1500 Overview

The EMD SW1500 is a four-axle, 1,500-horsepower diesel-electric switcher locomotive manufactured by the Electro-Motive Division of General Motors between 1966 and 1974. Powered by a V12 EMD 645E prime mover, it was designed primarily for yard switching and short-line industrial duties. Many units remain in active service today on regional railroads, short lines, and industrial operators across North America due to their reliable construction.

help EMD SW1500 FAQ

When was the EMD SW1500 built?

General Motors' Electro-Motive Division built the SW1500 from 1966 to 1974. It was a four-axle diesel-electric switcher rated at 1,500 horsepower. [Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/EMD_SW1500)

What engine powers an EMD SW1500?

The SW1500 uses a 12-cylinder EMD 645E prime mover connected to an electric generator and traction motors. That engine was designed to provide high starting tractive effort for low-speed switching. [Athearn](https://www.athearn.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-athearn-us-Library/default/dwce2aae7d/announcements/december-2024/03_ATHHO_EMD_SW1500_112924.pdf)

How is the SW1500 different from the EMD SW1000?

The SW1500 has a 1,500-horsepower 645E engine, while the SW1000 used a different, lower-powered engine. The SW1500 is also commonly recognizable by its two exhaust stacks rather than the SW1000's single stack. [Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/EMD_SW1500)

Was the EMD SW1500 designed for mainline road service?

Its primary job was yard switching, industrial shunting, and short-line work rather than long-distance express hauling. The 1,500-horsepower rating gave railroads a strong switcher for assembling freight trains and moving heavy cuts of cars. [American-Rails](https://www.american-rails.com/32158.html)

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