Comments on: RS 18 3814 and two (2) other ALCO’s in the yard at Fort Erie. Unknown photographer. The NRM is housed in the former CNR Diesel Shop that closed in 1989. Opening weekend at the NIAGARA RAILWAY MUSEUM http://www.nfrm.ca/ is May 14 and 15. Thanks Steve for helping out on the image.

By: RonaldB

RonaldB — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 04:13:36 +0000

Regarding the discussion on AAR type B vs lightweight MLW trucks, on CP they were interchangeable on all first generation MLW power, including A & B unit covered wagons. Many photos exist of units with a mix of one of each style of truck. So far as I have seen, CN did not employ this practice.

By: Brundle

Brundle — Thu, 14 Apr 2022 14:28:44 +0000

From a caption describing this truck “MLW instead of using the type B AAR truck, used a somewhat similar Canada only-design with a 106-inch wheelbase”. It seems that instead of using the typical type B found under the 3021, MLW choose a similar, lighter design, a different style. There is mention that it is found under other MLW units, it sounds like MLW made this new design a standard option for lightweight running. Kind of took this new Canadian design and made it their own. They did build and design their own 6-wheel truck though.

By: jakirkman

jakirkman — Thu, 14 Apr 2022 12:21:38 +0000

Just a small note, the 3814′s trucks are technically lightweight AAR-B trucks, not MLW trucks.
In addition to some CN RS18′s, CP has some RS23′s and all DW&P’s RS11′s were equipped with these trucks.

By: Klaucker

Klaucker — Thu, 14 Apr 2022 00:43:43 +0000

Great observation…it makes me wonder which lines radiating from Fort Erie would have the lighter rail restrictions….I am sure someone here knows…

By: Brundle

Brundle — Wed, 13 Apr 2022 22:00:14 +0000

Neat, the 3814 has the MLW style truck, they lack the leaf springs, which would be sitting centre, between the coil springs, just empty space on the MLW truck. The 3021 has the much more typical ALCO B truck. I imagine the MLW truck is like the flexicoil trucks under GP9′s. Reduced in weight for lighter rail operation.