| AT&SF RSD-15 9844 at San Bernardino, California on an unknown day in May 1975, photo by R. H. Lehmuth, Chuck Zeiler collection. Built as AT&SF RSD-15 844 in January 1959 (c/n 83054) on Alco Order S-3320, it was renumbered in the early 1970's to 9844, and later became LS&I 2405. The RSD-15, also known as a model DL-600B, was Alco's entry in the high horsepower race, which began with Fairbanks-Morse introduction of the 2400 horsepower Train Master. The RSD-15 produced 2400 horsepower from a model 251 diesel prime mover powering six-GE 752 traction motors. The Santa Fe ultimately acquired 50 RSD-15's, originally delivered in the 800 number series, and they introduced the low short hood concept to the USA road switcher market, resulting in the "Alligator" nickname for these locomotives. Production began in 1956, and part way through the Santa Fe production run, the paint scheme was changed from the "Zebra Stripe" scheme to the blue and yellow freight scheme. The box over the S in Santa Fe contains the serpentine pipes to cool the air compressor air. |