Alco "RS1" Locomotives: Roster, Specs, Data Sheet
Last revised: December 27, 2024
By: Adam Burns
The American Locomotive Company (Alco) could seemingly never outdo the Electro-Motive Division for dominance in the early diesel locomotive market.
Despite this, the company would develop one of the most important layouts for how all future diesel locomotives would be built; the RS1, which pioneered the original road-switcher design.
Not only would EMD go on to use the carbody style in its later General Purpose (GP) series but also the offset cab layout is still used today by General Electric and successor Electro-Motive Diesel.
The RS1 was in production longer than any other model at the time, remaining in Alco's catalog for nearly 20 years. Today, you can still find a handful of these rugged workhorses preserved at various museums around the country - some of which are even still operational.
Photos
It's the early Penn Central era as a former Pennsylvania RS-1 lays over in Bristol, Pennsylvania along the Northeast Corridor during the spring of 1968. Photographer unknown. American-Rails.com collection.The RS1 was released by the builder in early 1941; it was the first in a long line of Road Switcher models that ended in 1963 with the RS36. It is also recognized as the first, true road-switcher ever cataloged by a locomotive manufacturer. Alco's history with its early, cataloged diesel switchers dated all of the way back to its demonstrator HH300 models (High Hood) of the early 1930s.
Pennsylvania RS1 #9919 at Meadows Yard in Kearny, New Jersey, circa 1967. Fred Byerly photo. American-Rails.com collection.However, the company's history with diesel locomotive technology goes back even further to a testbed switcher outshopped in July, 1925 in conjunction with General Electric and Ingersoll-Rand. In his book, "The Diesel Builders, Volume Two: American Locomotive Company and Montreal Locomotive Works," author John Kirkland notes this 300 horsepower, 60-ton unit was completed as Alco order S1484, construction number 65979.
The early "HH" series models were essentially prototypes themselves, built in conjunction with Westinghouse and McIntosh & Seymore, and sold to a handful of railroads. Interestingly, as Kirkland points out, Alco never actually cataloged these switchers as "High Hood," designs. This was yet another term later coined by railfans.
St. Louis-San Francisco Railway RS-1 #105, sub-lettered for subsidiary Alabama, Tennessee & Northern, is seen here in Springfield, Missouri, circa 1965. Mac Owen photo. American-Rails.com collection.The RS1, a design requested at the behest of Rock Island's chief operating officer, J.D. Farrington for use in passenger service along its lightly populated branch lines in the Midwest. In addition to passenger assignments consisting of only one or two cars, railroads soon found the RS1 could handle both light freight duties and switching assignments.
The RS1 was given slight design features from famed industrial designer Otto Kuhler. Most noteworthy is that they were the first to employ raised cabs for better visibility, so commonly employed in today's locomotives. Designed by Westinghouse as the "visibility cab", they were normally wider and taller than the engine hood providing crews with better visibility featuring an arched roof line.
Spokane, Portland & Seattle RS1 #54 at Portland, Oregon; August, 1965. Fred Byerly photo. American-Rails.com collection.As such, it featured a long hood to house the 539T power plant, a McIntosh & Seymore with a cab was placed offset on the frame. This setup gave the locomotive a short hood at one end, used to house a steam generator for passenger service.
Data Sheet and Specifications
1941-1942
| Alco Class | 404-DL-240 |
| Entered Production | 3/14/1941 |
| Years Produced | 3/1941-6/1942 |
| Model Specification | E1640 |
| Engine | 539T, 6-Cylinder In-Line, Turbocharged |
| Engine Builder | Alco/McIntosh & Seymour |
| Horsepower | 1,000 |
| Carbody Styling | Alco |
| Length (Between Coupler Faces) | 55' 11 ¾" |
| Height (Top of Rail to Top of Cab) | 14' 6" |
| Width | 10' 0" |
| Weight | 240,000 Lbs |
| Dynamic Brakes | Yes |
| Air Brake Schedule | 14EL |
| Trucks | B-B |
| Truck Type | Swing Bolster, Drop-Side Equalizer (AAR Type-B) |
| Wheelbase | 9' 4" |
| Wheel Size | 40" |
| Traction Motors | GE 731 (4) |
| Traction Generator | GT533 |
| Gear Ratio | 75:16 |
| Tractive Effort Rating (Starting) | 72,000 Lbs (at 30% adhesion) |
| Tractive Effort Rating | 34,000 Lbs at 8 MPH |
| Top Speed | 60 MPH |
Post World War II
| Alco Class | 404-DL-240 |
| Entered Production | 3/14/1941 |
| Years Produced | 1945-11/1957 |
| Model Specification | E1641/A |
| Engine | 539T, 6-Cylinder In-Line, Turbocharged |
| Engine Builder | Alco/McIntosh & Seymour |
| Horsepower | 1,000 |
| Carbody Styling | Alco |
| Length (Between Coupler Faces) | 55' 11 ¾" |
| Height (Top of Rail to Top of Cab) | 14' 6" |
| Width | 10' 0" |
| Weight | 240,000 Lbs |
| Dynamic Brakes | Yes (Optional) |
| Air Brake Schedule | 14EL |
| Trucks | B-B |
| Truck Type | Swing Bolster, Drop-Side Equalizer (AAR Type-B) |
| Wheelbase | 9' 4" |
| Wheel Size | 40" |
| Traction Motors | GE 731D (4) |
| Traction Generator | GT553A |
| Gear Ratio | 75:16 |
| Tractive Effort Rating (Starting) | 72,000 Lbs (at 30% adhesion) |
| Tractive Effort Rating (Continuous) | 34,000 Lbs at 8 MPH |
| Top Speed | 60 MPH |
Prior to the start of World War II there were thirteen RS1's produced for five different railroads. Please refer to the table below. These locomotives were later requisitioned by the U.S. Army for use on the Trans-Iranian Railway to supply Russia with war materiel during the conflict.
The locomotives were based out of the Port of Bandar Shahpur on the Persian Gulf, running 685 miles largely through an arid, desert environment before entering elevations of 7,000 feet.
The Army had Alco retrofit the units with tapered cabs and change the roof line to meet tunnel clearances. In addition, the B-B, four-axle trucks were swapped out for C-C, six-axle trucks (all-powered). These were essentially the first "RSD-1" models.
New locomotives were later built for the original railroads (paid by the U.S. government) to replace those requisitioned, in April and May of 1943 (1946 for the Tennessee Coal, Iron & Railroad).
One of the Soo Line's rugged RS1s, #106 (built as Duluth, South Shore & Atlantic #106), is tied down at Burlington, Wisconsin in April, 1964. Rick Burn photo.Production Rosters
Pre-War Production Board (WPB) Units
These RS1s were completed before the War Production Board (WPB) took control of manufacturing throughout the nation and imposed restrictions on new diesels produced. This went into effect on April 4, 1942.
Total Built = 13
| Railroad | Road Number | Construction Number | Date Built | Date Rebuilt (Army) | U.S. War Department Number | Replacement Construction Number (RR) | Date Rebuilt For Railroads | New Road Number |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rock Island | 748 | 69424 | 3/1941 | 11/1942 | 8005 | 70816 | 5/1943 | 742 |
| Rock Island | 749 | 69425 | 3/1941 | 12/1942 | 8006 | 70817 | 5/1943 | 743 |
| Atlanta & St. Andrews Bay | 901 | 69426 | 3/1941 | 1/1943 | 8010 | 70810 | 4/1943 | 904 |
| Atlanta & St. Andrews Bay | 902 | 69427 | 3/1941 | 1/1943 | 8011 | 70811 | 4/1943 | 904 |
| Tennessee Coal, Iron & Railroad | 600 | 69428 | 4/1941 | 12/1942 | 8008 | 75203 | 10/1946 | 602 |
| Tennessee Coal, Iron & Railroad | 601 | 69566 | 4/1941 | 1/1943 | 8009 | 75204 | 10/1946 | 603 |
| Milwaukee Road | 1678 | 69567 | 6/1941 | 11/1942 | 8002 | 70814 | 4/1943 | 1676 |
| Milwaukee Road | 1679 | 69568 | 6/1941 | 11/1942 | 8003 | 70815 | 4/1943 | 1677 |
| Rock Island | 746 | 69569 | 8/1941 | 12/1942 | 8007 | 70818 | 5/1943 | 744 |
| Rock Island | 747 | 69570 | 8/1941 | 11/1942 | 8004 | 70819 | 5/1943 | 745 |
| Atlanta & St. Andrews Bay | 903 | 69800 | 6/1942 | 1/1943 | 8012 | 70821 | 4/1943 | 906 |
| New York, Susquehanna & Western | 231 | 69992 | 6/1942 | 11/1942 | 8000 | 70812 | 4/1943 | 231 |
| New York, Susquehanna & Western | 233 | 69993 | 6/1942 | 11/1942 | 8001 | 70813 | 4/1943 | 233 |
The six-axle version came in either a C-C or A1A-A1A truck setup. The standard RS1 came in a B-B truck setup (four axles) and could produce 34,000 pounds of tractive effort with a top speed of 60 mph (although it rarely ever reached such speeds). It was quite short at just 54 feet, 11 inches and also featured a very low profile.
Overall, the model weighed just 120 tons and featured electrical and other components from both General Electric and Westinghouse. With the Rock Island's original request it was one of the initial railroads to receive the model when the first batches were completed in March of 1941, delivered to:
- Tennessee Coal & Iron
- Milwaukee Road
- New York, Susquehanna & Western
- Atlanta & St. Andrews Bay Railroad
Post World War II
Total Built = 340
| Owner | Road Number(s) | Construction Number(s) | Completion Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Akron, Canton & Youngstown | D-2 | 74323 | 10/1945 |
| Alabama, Tennessee & Northern | 101, 102 | 71435, 73096 | 11/1944, 12/1944 |
| Alabama, Tennessee & Northern | 103, 104 | 73326, 73327 | 3/1945 |
| Alabama, Tennessee & Northern | 105, 106 | 73758, 74321 | 6/1945, 10/1945 |
| Alabama, Tennessee & Northern | 107-109 | 75110-75112 | 5/1946 - 6/1946 |
| Alabama, Tennessee & Northern | 110, 111 | 75480, 75481 | 8/1947 |
| Alaska Railroad | 1000, 1001 | 71319, 71320 | 5/1944 |
| Alton Railroad | 50 | 74322 | 10/1945 |
| Alton Railroad | 51-53 | 74494-74496 | 11/1945 |
| Alton Railroad | 54-58 | 74677-74681 | 11/1945 |
| Alton Railroad | 59 | 74823 | 12/1945 |
| Ann Arbor | 20, 21 | 78374, 78375 | 11/1950 |
| Santa Fe | 2385-2387 | 75391-75393 | 6/1947 - 7/1947 |
| Santa Fe | 2388 | 75482 | 8/1947 |
| Santa Fe | 2394, 2395 | 78115, 77838 | 8/1950, 12/1949 |
| Atlanta & St. Andrews Bay | 904, 905 | 70810, 70811 | 4/1943 |
| Atlanta & St. Andrews Bay | 906 | 70821 | 4/1943 |
| Atlanta & St. Andrews Bay | 907, 908 | 70809, 70822 | 11/1943 |
| Atlanta & St. Andrews Bay | 909 | 72812 | 6/1944 |
| Atlanta & St. Andrews Bay | 910, 911 | 73332, 73333 | 4/1945 |
| Atlanta & St. Andrews Bay | 912, 913 | 75559, 77848 | 10/1947, 2/1950 |
| Atlantic & East Carolina | 500 | 79047 | 4/1951 |
| Bamberger Railroad | 570 | 70820 | 5/1943 |
| Central Railroad of New Jersey | 1200-1204 | 78095-78099 | 6/1950 |
| Central Railroad of New Jersey | 1205 | 79234 | 9/1951 |
| Chesapeake & Ohio | 5114, 5115 | 80851, 80852 | 9/1953 |
| Chicago & Eastern Illinois | 115-118 | 73328-73331 | 4/1945 |
| Chicago & North Western | 1066 | 79589 | 9/1953 |
| Chicago & North Western | 1067, 1068 | 79590, 79591 | 8/1953 |
| Chicago & North Western | 1069 | 80850 | 9/1953 |
| Chicago & North Western | 1080 | 72816 | 8/1944 |
| Chicago & North Western | 1081 (1st) | 72921 | 9/1944 |
| Chicago & Western Indiana | 252, 253 | 76799, 76800 | 7/1949 |
| Chicago & Western Indiana | 254-257 | 77172-77175 | 10/1949 - 11/1949 |
| Chicago & Western Indiana | 258, 259 | 77836, 77837 | 12/1949 |
| Chicago & Western Indiana | 260-263 | 77849-77852 | 2/1950 |
| Milwaukee Road | 961-963 | 77469-77471 | 3/1950 |
| Milwaukee Road | 1676, 1677 | 70814, 70815 | 4/1943 |
| Rock Island | 735-739 | 71312-71316 | 1/1944 - 2/1944 |
| Rock Island | 740, 741 | 70823, 70824 | 11/1943 |
| Rock Island | 742-745 | 70816-70819 | 5/1943 |
| Duluth, South Shore & Atlantic (Soo Line) | 100, 101 | 73753, 73760 | 5/1945, 6/1945 |
| Duluth, South Shore & Atlantic (Soo Line) | 102 | 75215 | 12/1946 |
| Duluth, South Shore & Atlantic (Soo Line) | 103-105 | 75217-75219 | 1-2/1947 |
| Duluth, South Shore & Atlantic (Soo Line) | 106, 107 | 75389, 78376 | 5/1947, 1/1951 |
| DuPont | 105-108 | 79050-79053 | 6-7/1951 |
| Gaylord Container | 302, 303 | 75842, 75843 | 5/1948 |
| GE-Atomic Energy Commission | 39-3729, 39-3730 | 75844, 76206 | 6/1948 |
| GE-Atomic Energy Commission | 39-3731, 39-3732 | 76210, 76211 | 10/1948 |
| Genesee & Wyoming | 25, 30 | 79580, 81345 | 1/1952, 5/1955 |
| Grand Trunk Western | 1950, 1951 | 82355, 82356 | 11/1957 |
| Great Northern | 182, 183 | 72922, 72923 | 9/1944 |
| Great Northern | 184, 185 | 72924, 71433 | 11/1944, 10/1944 |
| Gulf, Mobile & Ohio | 1102 | 71438 | 11/1944 |
| Gulf, Mobile & Ohio | 1103, 1104 | 73094, 73095 | 12/1944 |
| Gulf, Mobile & Ohio | 1105-1107 | 73335-73337 | 4/1945 |
| Gulf, Mobile & Ohio | 1108, 1109 | 73573, 73574 | 5/1945 |
| Gulf, Mobile & Ohio | 1110 | 73752 | 5/1945 |
| Gulf, Mobile & Ohio | 1111, 1112 | 74910, 74911 | 1/1946, 4/1946 |
| Gulf, Mobile & Ohio | 1113 | 75216 | 1/1947 |
| Gulf, Mobile & Ohio | 1114, 1115 | 75220, 75221 | 2/1947 |
| Gulf, Mobile & Ohio | 1116, 1117 | 75223, 75224 | 3/1947 |
| Gulf, Mobile & Ohio | 1120 | 76219 | 12/1948 |
| Gulf, Mobile & Ohio | 1121, 1122 | 76624, 76625 | 1/1949 |
| Gulf, Mobile & Ohio | 1123-1125 | 76629-76631 | 3/1949 - 4/1949 |
| Gulf, Mobile & Ohio | 1126, 1127 | 76796, 76798 | 4/1949, 5/1949 |
| Illinois Terminal | 750-752 | 75839-75841 | 5/1948 |
| Illinois Terminal | 754 | 77855 | 3/1950 |
| Illinois Terminal | 755, 756 | 77069, 77070 | 3/1950 |
| Kansas City Southern | 1110-1113 | 70825-70828 | 11/1943 - 12/1943 |
| Lake Erie, Franklin & Clarion | 20, 21 | 76797, 78241 | 4/1949, 8/1950 |
| Lake Superior & Ishpeming | 1001-1003 | 79576-79578 | 11/1951 - 12/1951 |
| Long Island Railroad | 461, 462 | 76220, 76622 | 12/1948, 1/1949 |
| Long Island Railroad | 463-465 | 76626-76628 | 2/1949 - 3/1949 |
| Long Island Railroad | 466-469 | 77475-77478 | 4/1950 |
| Midland Continental Railroad | 401, 402 | 74912, 79579 | 4/1946, 12/1951 |
| Minneapolis & St. Louis | 244 | 71317 | 2/1944 |
| Minneapolis & St. Louis | 744, 944 | 71434, 71436 | 7/1944, 9/1944 |
| Minneapolis & St. Louis | 1044, 1144 | 73093, 79097 | 10/1944, 11/1944 |
| Minneapolis & St. Louis | 645, 745 | 73334, 73759 | 6/1945, 7/1945 |
| Minneapolis & St. Louis | 845, 945 | 74317, 74318 | 8/1945, 9/1945 |
| Minneapolis &a St. Louis | 146, 246 | 74821, 74822 | 1/1946, 2/1946 |
| Minneapolis & St. Louis | 346, 446 | 74824, 74909 | 3/1946, 4/1946 |
| Minneapolis & St. Louis | 546, 646 | 75113, 75114 | 5/1946, 6/1946 |
| Minneapolis & St. Louis | 746, 846 | 75115, 75116 | 7/1946, 8/1946 |
| Minneapolis & St. Louis | 946, 1046 | 75117, 75118 | 9/1946, 10/1946 |
| Minneapolis & St. Louis | 547 | 75390 | 5/1947 |
| Minneapolis & St. Louis | 948, 1048 | 76207, 76208 | 9/1948, 10/1948 |
| Minneapolis & St. Louis | 1148 | 76209 | 11/1948 |
| Minneapolis & St. Louis | 849, 949 | 77842, 77843 | 8/1949, 9/1949 |
| Minneapolis & St. Louis | 1049, 1149 | 77844, 77845 | 10/1949, 11/1949 |
| Minneapolis & St. Louis | 1249 | 77846 | 12/1959 |
| Minneapolis & St. Louis | 950, 1050 | 78243, 78244 | 9/1950, 10/1950 |
| Minneapolis & St. Louis | 1150, 1250 | 78245, 78373 | 11/1950, 12/1950 |
| Minneapolis & St. Louis | 751 | 79235 | 7/1951 |
| Minneapolis & St. Louis | 851, 951 | 79346, 79347 | 8/1951, 9/1951 |
| Minneapolis, St. Paul & Sault Ste Marie (Soo Line) | 350, 351 | 80853, 80854 | 12/1954 |
| Minneapolis, St. Paul & Sault Ste Marie (Soo Line) | 352, 353 | 80978, 80979 | 12/1954 |
| New York Central | 8100 | 75825 | 2/1948 |
| New York Central | 8101-8105 | 75680-75684 | 1/1948 - 2/1948 |
| New York Central | 8106-8108 | 75826-75828 | 2/1948 - 3/1948 |
| New York Central | 8109-8111 | 77986-77988 | 4/1950 |
| New York Central | 8112, 8113 | 78090, 78091 | 5/1950 |
| New Haven | 0660-0669 | 75829-75838 | 3/1948 - 4/1948 |
| New Haven | 0670, 0671 | 76212, 76213 | 11/1948 |
| New York, Susquehanna & Western | 230 | 71437 | 11/1944 |
| New York, Susquehanna & Western | 231, 233 (2nd) | 70812, 70813 | 4/1943 |
| New York, Susquehanna & Western | 232-236 (Evens) | 73098-73100 | 1/1945 |
| New York, Susquehanna & Western | 238, 240 | 73568, 73569 | 4/1945 |
| New York, Susquehanna & Western | 242, 244 | 73754, 73755 | 5/1945 |
| New York, Susquehanna & Western | 246-252 (Evens) | 75555-75558 | 9/1947 - 10/1947 |
| New York, Susquehanna & Western | 254, 256 | 79584, 79585 | 6/1953 |
| Northern Pacific | 155 | 73761 | 6/1945 |
| Northern Pacific | 156 | 74316 | 10/1945 |
| Northern Pacific | 157, 158 | 73765, 73766 | 8/1945 |
| Oregon Electric Railway | 52-54 | 73570-73572 | 4/1945 - 5/1945 |
| Oregon Electric Railway | 55 | 73756 | 6/1945 |
| Pennsylvania Railroad | 5619, 5620 | 78106, 78107 | 6/1950 |
| Pennsylvania Railroad | 5621-5624 | 78110-78113 | 6/1950 - 7/1950 |
| Pennsylvania Railroad | 5625-5628 | 78100-78103 | 6/1950 |
| Pennsylvania Railroad | 5629 | 78114 | 8/1950 |
| Pennsylvania Railroad | 5630, 5631 | 78116, 78117 | 8/1950 |
| Pennsylvania Railroad | 5632-5636 | 78159-78163 | 8/1950 |
| Pennsylvania Railroad | 5637, 5638 | 78104, 78105 | 6/1950 |
| Pennsylvania Railroad | 5639, 5640 | 78108, 78109 | 6/1950 |
| Pennsylvania Railroad | 5906 | 76214 | 12/1948 |
| Pennsylvania Railroad | 8485, 8486 | 79582, 79583 | 5/1952 |
| Pennsylvania Railroad | 8857, 8858 | 78377, 79046 | 4/1951 |
| Rutland Railway | 400, 401 | 79349, 79350 | 10/1951 |
| Rutland Railway | 402-405 | 79572-79575 | 10/1951 - 11/1951 |
| Spokane International | 200-205 | 77166-77171 | 9/1949 - 10/1949 |
| Spokane International | 206-208 | 77839-77841 | 12/1949 |
| Spokane International | 209-211 | 79586-79588 | 7/1953 - 8/1953 |
| Spokane, Portland & Seattle | 50, 51 | 73757, 73762 | 6/1945, 7/1945 |
| Tennessee Coal & Iron | 602, 603 | 75203, 75204 | 10/1946 |
| Tennessee Coal & Iron | 604 | 75484 | 9/1947 |
| U.S. Navy | 6 | 72817 | 9/1944 |
| Washington Terminal | 40 | 71318 | 3/1944 |
| Washington Terminal | 41-43 | 72813-72815 | 6/1944 - 7/1944 |
| Washington Terminal | 44, 45 | 73763, 73764 | 7/1945, 8/1945 |
| Washington Terminal | 46, 47 | 74314, 74315 | 9/1945 |
| Washington Terminal | 48, 49 | 74319, 74320 | 10/1945 |
| Washington Terminal | 50-54 | 75560-75564 | 11/1947 - 12/1947 |
| Washington Terminal | 55 | 75679 | 12/1947 |
| Washington Terminal | 56-59 | 76215-76218 | 12/1948 |
| Washington Terminal | 60-62 | 77472-77474 | 3/1950 |
| Washington Terminal | 63, 64 | 79048, 79049 | 5/1951 |
| Wisconsin Central (Soo Line) | 2360, 2361 | 77853, 77854 | 2/1950, 3/1950 |
| Wisconsin Central (Soo Line) | 2362 | 78242 | 8/1950 |
| Wisconsin Central (Soo Line) | 2363, 2364 | 79054, 79055 | 8/1951 |
| Wisconsin Central (Soo Line) | 2365-2367 | 79231-79233 | 9/1951 |
| Wisconsin Central (Soo Line) | 2368 | 79581 | 3/1952 |
Export
Total Built = 116
| Owner | Road Number(s) | Construction Number(s) | Completion Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arabian-American Oil Company (Saudi Arabia) | A11x50, A11x51 | 75222, 75488 | 2/1947, 9/1947 |
| Arabian-American Oil Company (Saudi Arabia) | 1002 | 76623 | 1/1949 |
| Arabian-American Oil Company (Saudi Arabia) | 1003, 1004 | 77071, 77072 | 3/1950 |
| Arabian-American Oil Company (Saudi Arabia) | 1005 | 79348 | 10/1951 |
| Central Railway of Brazil | 3100-3119 | 71413-71432 | 4/1945 - 10/1945 |
| Central Railway of Brazil | 3120-3133 | 73703-73716 | 10/1945 - 1/1946 |
| Central Railway of Brazil | 3134, 3135 | 75924, 75925 | 7/1948 |
| Central Railway of Brazil | 3136, 3137 | 75930, 75931 | 8/1948, 9/1948 |
| São Paulo Railway (Brazil) | 504-507 | 75926-75929 | 8/1948 |
| São Paulo Railway (Brazil) | 508, 509 | 75932, 75933 | 9/1948 |
| Estrada de Ferro Santos-Jundiaí (Brazil) | 510, 511 | 81346, 82018 | 4/1956, 12/1956 |
| Ferrocarriles Nacionales de México (Mexico) | 5606, 5607 | 77847, 77073 | 2/1950, 3/1950 |
| Ferrocarriles Nacionales de México (Mexico) | 5608, 5609 | 77989, 77990 | 4/1950 |
| Ferrocarriles Nacionales de México (Mexico) | 5610-5618 | 78033-78041 | 4/1950 - 5/1950 |
| Ferrocarriles Nacionales de México (Mexico) | 5619 (1st) | 78042 | 5/1950 |
| Ferrocarriles Nacionales de México (Mexico) | 5620, 5621 (1st) | 78088, 78089 | 5/1950 |
| Ferrocarriles Nacionales de México (Mexico) | 5619-5621 (2nd) [MLW] | 76430-76432 | 4/1954 |
| Ferrocarriles Nacionales de México (Mexico) | 5622-5624 (1st) | 78092-78094 | 5/1950 |
| Ferrocarriles Nacionales de México (Mexico) | 5622-5624 (2nd) | 81347-81349 | 10/1956 |
| Ferrocarriles Nacionales de México (Mexico) | 5625-5631 | 82011-82017 | 10/1956 - 11/1956 |
| Ferrocarriles Nacionales de México (Mexico) | 5632-5638 | 82019-82025 | 12/1956 - 1/1957 |
| Ferrocarriles Nacionales de México (Mexico) | 5639-5643 | 82343-82347 | 1/1957 - 2/1957 |
| Ferrocarriles Nacionales de México (Mexico) | 5644-5650 | 82348-82354 | 7/1957 - 8/1957 |
| Ferrocarriles Nacionales de México (Mexico) | 5651 | 82357 | 5/1958 |
| Ferrocarriles Nacionales de México (Mexico) | 5652-5656 | 82923-82927 | 12/1958 |
| Ferrocarriles Nacionales de México (Mexico) | 5657-5662 | 83619-83624 | 12/1959 - 1/1960 |
| Ferrocarriles Nacionales de México (Mexico) | 5663 (Final RS1 built) | 83680 | 3/1960 |
Kansas City Southern RS1 #1113 carries out switching work in Kansas City, circa 1967. American-Rails.com collection.Despite only modest sales numbers the RS1 could be found on railroads across the country from the Pennsylvania and New York Central to the Milwaukee Road and Northern Pacific.
While most RS1s were used in light branch line work some were also utilized in other applications, such as switching passenger cars at passenger terminals.
The later RS2 and RS3 sold thousands to several railroads and private industries, offering just the right blend of size and power. Unfortunately, later models could not replicate the same success and throughout the 1950s Alco lost ground to EMD.
Sources
- Foster, Gerald. A Field Guide To Trains. New York: Houghton Mifflin, 1996.
- Kirkland, John F. Diesel Builders, The: Volume Two, American Locomotive Company And Montreal Locomotive Works. Glendale: Interurban Press, 1989.
- Pinkepank, Jerry A. Diesel Spotter's Guide. Milwaukee: Kalmbach Publishing Company, 1967.
- Rail Heritage Publications. Early Diesel-Electric and Electric Locomotives. Simmons-Boardman Publishing Corporation, 1983.
- Schafer, Mike. Vintage Diesel Locomotives. Osceola: MBI Publishing, 1998.
- Solomon, Brian. Alco Locomotives. Minneapolis: Voyageur Press, 2009.
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Whiskey Tasting Train Rides (2026)
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These rides across the United States offer a sensory journey through lush landscapes and historical corridors, often pairing scenic vistas with curated whiskey tastings. -
Father's Day Train Ride Locations (2026)
May 21, 26 10:54 PM
Celebrate dad by train! Several heritage railroads and museums host trips honoring dads. Learn more about which locations offer such excursions. -
The Chessie Safety Express: Steam-Powered Advocacy for Railroad Safety
May 21, 26 10:44 PM
In the fall of 1980, a gleaming Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) 4-8-4 steam locomotive named No. 614 thundered across the rails of the Chessie System, pulling a colorful consist of passenger cars filled with… -
Frankfort and Cincinnati Railroad: "The Kentucky Midland Route"
May 21, 26 06:08 PM
The Frankfort & Cincinnati was a small shortline located in north-central Kentucky that was known as "The Whiskey Route" for the many distilleries it served. The F&C shutdown in 1985. -
North Carolina 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:43 PM
One of the GSMR's most distinctive special events is Spirits on the Rail, a bourbon-focused dining experience built around curated drinks and a chef-prepared multi-course meal. -
Connecticut 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:42 PM
While the Naugatuck Railroad runs a variety of trips throughout the year, one event has quickly become a “circle it on the calendar” outing for fans of great food and spirited tastings: the BBQ & Bour… -
Kansas "Dinner" Train Rides From Abilene
May 21, 26 12:37 PM
If you’re looking for a heritage railroad that feels authentically Kansas—equal parts prairie scenery, small-town history, and hands-on railroading—the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad delivers. -
Vermont "Dinner" Train Rides At Burlington
May 21, 26 12:34 PM
There is one location in Vermont hosting a dedicated dinner train experience at the Green Mountain Railroad. -
New Jersey "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:24 PM
There are a few locations in New Jersey celebrating dads with a train ride. Learn more about these unique trips here! -
Massachusetts "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:16 PM
The Cape Cod Central is the one location in the state hosting an event just for dads, a special brunch train. Learn more here! -
Historic Steam Locomotive Heads To Charleston For America250 Exhibit
May 21, 26 11:58 AM
A rare piece of West Virginia industrial history, an 0-4-0F fireless steam locomotive by H.K. Porter in 1945, is being installed near the West Virginia State Capitol Complex in Charleston as part of a… -
Connecticut 'Dinner' Train Rides At Essex
May 20, 26 11:55 AM
Connecticut's rail heritage can be traced back to the industry's earliest days and a few organizations preserve this rich history by offering train rides. The Essex Steam Train also hosts dinner-theme… -
Arkansas 'Dinner 'Train Rides On The A&M
May 20, 26 11:54 AM
If you want a railroad experience that feels equal parts “working short line” and “time machine,” the Arkansas & Missouri Railroad delivers in a way few modern operations can. -
Illinois 'Dinner' Train Rides At The MRM
May 20, 26 11:52 AM
The Monticello Railway Museum (MRM) is one of those places that quietly does a lot: it preserves a sizable collection, maintains its own operating railroad, and—most importantly for visitors—puts hist… -
California 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 20, 26 11:51 AM
When it comes to experiencing the allure of crime-solving sprinkled with delicious dining, California's murder mystery dinner train rides have carved a niche for themselves among both locals and touri… -
Michigan 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 20, 26 11:50 AM
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Michigan’s wine tasting train experiences that cater to both wine connoisseurs and railway aficionados. -
Indiana 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 20, 26 11:48 AM
In this article, we'll delve into the experience of wine tasting trains in Indiana, exploring their routes, services, and the rising popularity of this unique adventure. -
Texas & Pacific Railway Timetables (September, 1937)
May 20, 26 11:10 AM
Featured here is the Texas & Pacific's timetables and system map from the September, 1937 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
Norfolk Southern Unveils America250 Locomotive Series
May 20, 26 10:30 AM
Norfolk Southern has rolled out a bold new commemorative series to mark America’s 250th anniversary (the nation’s Semiquincentennial in 2026). -
The Nebraska Zephyr: Burlington's Lincoln Service
May 20, 26 09:49 AM
ntroduced in 1947, the Nebraska Zephyr provided fast, stylish daylight service between Chicago, Illinois, and Lincoln, Nebraska (via Omaha), covering 551 miles (887 km) in under 10 hours at an average… -
Colorado & Southern Timetables (March, 1940)
May 19, 26 11:55 PM
Featured here is the Colorado & Southern's timetables from the March, 1940 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
New Jersey "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:59 AM
There are a few locations in New Jersey celebrating dads with a train ride. Learn more about these unique trips here! -
Illinois 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:56 AM
Among Illinois's scenic train rides, one of the most unique and captivating experiences is the murder mystery excursion. -
Kentucky 'Dinner Train' Rides From Bardstown
May 19, 26 11:53 AM
The essence of My Old Kentucky Dinner Train is part restaurant, part scenic excursion, and part living piece of Kentucky rail history. -
Vermont 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:50 AM
There are currently murder mystery dinner trains offered in Vermont but until recently the Champlain Valley Dinner Train offered such a trip! -
Ohio - Beer Tasting - Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:49 AM
The Ohio Rail Experience's Quincy Sunset Tasting Train is a new offering that pairs an easygoing evening schedule with a signature scenic highlight: a high, dramatic crossing of the Quincy Bridge over… -
Texas 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:43 AM
Texas State Railroad's “Pints In The Pines” train is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the line: a vintage evening departure, craft beer samplings, and a catered dinner at the Rusk depot un… -
South Dakota 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:40 AM
For wine enthusiasts and adventurers alike, South Dakota introduces a novel way to experience its local viticulture: wine tasting aboard the Black Hills Central Railroad. -
New Mexico 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:33 AM
For oenophiles and adventure seekers alike, wine tasting train rides in New Mexico provide a unique opportunity to explore the region's vineyards in comfort and style. -
Amtrak's First Airo Trainset Arrives in Seattle
May 19, 26 10:01 AM
Amtrak's next-generation Airo passenger trainset has officially arrived in Seattle, marking a major milestone in the railroad's largest fleet overhaul in decades and the start of a new era for travel… -
Maine "Ice Cream" Tasting Train Rides
May 19, 26 09:49 AM
The Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad & Museum’s Ice Cream Train is a family-friendly Friday-night tradition that turns a short rail excursion into a small event. -
TP&W Railway Timetables (January, 1930)
May 18, 26 03:23 PM
Featured here is the Toledo, Peoria & Western Railway's timetables listed in the January, 1930 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
CSX SD40-2 8888, "Crazy Eights": The 2001 Runaway Train
May 18, 26 02:02 PM
On May 15, 2001, a single locomotive—CSX SD40-2 No. 8888—began one of the most infamous runaway train incidents in American railroad history. -
North Carolina "Ice Cream Tasting" Train Rides
May 18, 26 01:40 PM
One of the most popular warm-weather offerings at NCTM is the Ice Cream Train, a simple but brilliant concept: pair a relaxing ride with a classic summer treat. -
New York "Ice Cream Tasting" Train Rides
May 18, 26 01:32 PM
While CMRR runs several seasonal excursions, one of the most family-friendly (and, frankly, joyfully simple) offerings is its Ice Cream Express. -
New Mexico 'Murder Mystery' Train Rides
May 18, 26 12:31 PM
Among Sky Railway's most theatrical offerings is “A Murder Mystery,” a 2–2.5 hour immersive production that drops passengers into a stylized whodunit on the rails. -
Michigan 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 18, 26 12:28 PM
Among the lesser-known treasures of this state are the intriguing murder mystery dinner train rides—a perfect blend of suspense, dining, and scenic exploration. -
Ohio 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 18, 26 12:24 PM
Among the intriguing ways to experience Ohio's splendor is aboard the wine tasting trains that journey through some of Ohio's most picturesque vineyards and wineries. -
Pennsylvania 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 18, 26 12:22 PM
Wine tasting trains are a unique and enchanting way to explore the state’s burgeoning wine scene while enjoying a leisurely ride through picturesque landscapes. -
Minnesota BBQ Tasting Train Rides
May 18, 26 12:10 PM
If you’re looking for a perfect mix of nostalgia, stunning Lake Superior views, and mouthwatering food, the North Shore Scenic Railroad in Duluth, Minnesota, delivers—literally. -
South Carolina BBQ Tasting Train Rides
May 18, 26 12:05 PM
There is only location in the Palmetto State offering a true dinner train experience can be found at the South Carolina Railroad Museum. Learn more here.
