EMD SD45 - "Runs Like A Deer And Pulls Like A Mule"

Built by the Electro-Motive Division of General Motors, the SD45 is a 3,600 HP, diesel electric locomotive. It was in production from 1965 thru 1971. There were 1,260 units produced with 317 of them going to the Southern Pacific Railroad. An identifying characteristic of the locomotive is the flared radiator housings. When received, Southern Pacific put the new units to work on their hottest trains such as those pulling auto parts, the Blue Streak Merchandise and other priority freight trains. The railroad was able to take advantage of the locomotive's capabilities to increase train size and improve schedules. The SD45 did have its teething problems with the biggest ones being crankshaft failure due to engine block flex and trouble with keeping the 20 cylinder engine cool. These problems were soon ironed out and the SD45 became quite a good performer able to out pull most of its competition. This portrait features an SD45 of the Southern Pacific Railroad.