Fuel Consumption

[Kiwi Foamer]

I would like to know a fuel consumption figure please.

A four-locomotive freight train climbing up the Cajon Pass uses how much fuel? I realise there will be a range of values but I would appreciate knowing the highest figure possibLe, ideally in gallons per hour per locomotive at the steeper grades.

 

[bnsf971]

At notch 8, an SD40 will burn about 165GPH.

 

[Kiwi Foamer]

Thanks very much, that explains why they sound so magnificent!

 

[Bill Anderson]

At notch 8, an SD40 will burn about 165GPH.

The SD40 is a relatively old locomotive that uses late 1960's-early 1970's technology. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/EMD_SD40

Newer locomotives with their 21st century computer technology were developed to get much better fuel economy along with lower exhaust emissions.

 

[Kiwi Foamer]

Thanks Bill, technology makes machinery better but sometimes the old stuff still catches the eye. And ear.

 

[Bill Anderson]

Thanks Bill, technology makes machinery better but sometimes the old stuff still catches the eye. And ear.

How true. I used to bemoan the legions of look-alike SD40-2's that headed mainline freights in the late 70's-early 90's. Now I would certainly like to see one on a local or transfer run.

 

[Kiwi Foamer]

A couple of years ago I spent a day photographing action in the Cajon Pass. What a great location for railroad shots. Here’s one of my many favourites.

 

[bnsf971]

The SD40 is a relatively old locomotive that uses late 1960's-early 1970's technology. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/EMD_SD40

Newer locomotives with their 21st century computer technology were developed to get much better fuel economy along with lower exhaust emissions.

That was the newest info I had on hand. I was pretty sure he didn't want fuel consumption info for a 244 Alco...