EMD MP15DC

Technical Specifics

The EMD MP15DC emerged from Electro-Motive Division's effort to produce a more versatile switcher capable of road service as well as yard work. The design drew directly from an experience gained in 1973, when EMD built sixty specially configured SW1504 locomotives for Mexican railroads. Those units required a slightly elongated frame to accommodate Blomberg B trucks, which had a longer wheelbase than the AAR type A switcher or Flexicoil trucks used on conventional EMD switchers up to that point. Recognizing that the resulting locomotive was genuinely suited for road speeds approaching 60 miles per hour, EMD formalized the concept into a new model line. The designation MP15DC reflected this broader purpose, standing for Multi-Purpose locomotive, 1500 horsepower, DC generator, and production began in 1974. The model was originally marketed simply as the MP15 until the introduction of the alternator-equipped MP15AC in 1975 necessitated distinguishing between the two variants. Production of the MP15DC continued from 1974 through 1987, with approximately 255 units delivered to a range of North American railroads. The locomotive attracted buyers looking for a capable, dual-purpose unit that could handle switching assignments while also being pressed into light road service when needed. Its adoption of Blomberg B trucks, long associated with EMD's mainline road locomotives, gave it better riding qualities and higher speed capability than traditional switchers, broadening its operational appeal. Several Class I railroads as well as regional and short line operators acquired the type during its production run. The MP15DC occupies a meaningful place in the evolution of EMD's switcher and road switcher product lines. It bridged the gap between the conventional yard switcher and the full road switcher, demonstrating that a compact, moderate-horsepower locomotive could serve multiple roles effectively. The subsequent success of the MP15AC, which incorporated more modern electrical equipment, owed much to the market acceptance that the MP15DC had established. Many examples of the type remained in service with various operators well into the twenty-first century, a testament to the durability of the basic design.

Prototype Reference

Real-world information about this equipment type