Atlas Fairbanks Morse Train Master HO & N Scale
The Fairbanks-Morse Train Master: A Pioneer in Diesel-Electric Locomotives
The Fairbanks-Morse Train Master, officially designated as the FM H-24-66, is a diesel-electric locomotive that made a significant impact in the rail industry. Produced by Fairbanks-Morse and its licensee, the Canadian Locomotive Company, the Train Master was introduced in April 1953 and continued production until June 1957.
Prime Mover and Specifications: The Train Master is powered by the FM 38D-8 1/8 prime mover, a 12-cylinder opposed-piston two-stroke diesel engine. This engine delivers 2,400 horsepower (1.8 MW), making it one of the most powerful single-engine diesel locomotives of its time.
Production Numbers: A total of 127 Train Master units were produced during its production run. Despite its advanced design and impressive power, the Train Master faced challenges in the market due to maintenance complexities and higher-than-normal consumption of cooling water.
Railroads Operating the Train Master: The Train Master was operated by several major railroads, including:
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Canadian National
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Canadian Pacific
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Central of New Jersey
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Delaware, Lackawanna & Western
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Pennsylvania Railroad
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Reading
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Southern
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Southern Pacific
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Virginian
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Wabash
Legacy: The Train Master's innovative design and powerful performance have left a lasting legacy in the rail industry. Although it faced challenges during its time, the Train Master is remembered as a pioneering locomotive that was ahead of its time. Today, one preserved unit, Canadian Pacific #8905, is on display at the Canadian Railway Museum in Saint-Constant, Quebec.
