The SW8, SW900 & SW600 Prototype History SW8, 900 & 600s were part of a series of switchers similar in appearance produced by the Electro-Motive Division of General Motors starting in the mid-1930s. Although the colorful road units received more publicity, these switchers were among the first widely known accepted diesel locomotives. Their weight and ability to negotiate tight radius curves made them ideally suited to yard service. With optional MU capability, these switchers served in hump yards, transfer service and branchline freight service. While nearly identical in appearance, the real difference among these switchers was horsepower: The SW8 was rated at 800 horsepower, the SW9 at 900 housepower and the SW600 at 600 horsepower. The popularity of these units kepts them in production from 1950 through 1965, and some can still be seen switching in yards today. Features include:

Powerful motor with 5-pole skew wound armature, dual flywheels and bronze oilless bearings.

RP25 contour all wheel electrical pick-up and all wheel gear drive

PROTO 2000 Magnetic Couplers