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North American Locomotive Works |
Model Description:
This high fidelity GE-AMD103/P40dc Amtrak
Phase 3 MSTS model is complete with Visually Accurate Textures, including
animated roof fans and "Real" GE FDL Sounds along with a Stylized
P40 cab. Also Included is a set of high fidelity performance models
(Engine Physics). The lighting has been upgraded to include the strobes
(P40) and switchable working ditch lights (all). Note: the ditch lights
will shine constantly with the head light switch in the high position
and they will flash with the head light switch in the dim position.
This Pak/Set is the original release and installs all the common files
to be used by later expansion packs in addition to the 808/831 textures.
History
The P40 - first of the Genesis series. General Electric built these
4000hp locomotives to start replacing the EMD F40s. Designated by GE
as model AMD-103 (Amtrak Diesel - 103mph) they were called the Genesis
series since they featured many improvements and according to the the
builder's plate they are designated Dash 8-40BP. They are commonly referred
to as P40. Based (mechanically at least) on the popular Dash8-40B and
Dash 8-40BW freight locomotives, these units bring a new face to the
Amtrak roster. These Locomotives Numbered 800-843, were built and delivered
from April-December 1993. It has been reported that at least some of
these units have been upgraded to 4200hp when overhauled. (Depending
on the state of Amtrak finances when they are/were overhauled).
They were initially delivered in Phase III paint and with "Face
Mounted" strobes. The strobes were later deleted when the units
repainted to Phase IV.
After some initial "Teething" problems with their highly automated
controls the "Earthworms" have been highly successfull for
Amtrak and beloved by their engine crews for their comfort, ride and
pulling power. Altho "Slow to Load", a condition primarily
caused by the programming on their Engine Control Computers for emissions
reasons, Once rolling they go like the wind. Amtrak motive power dispatchers
routinely use a single P4x locomotive in place of two (2) F40s.... And
they get much better fuel economy than a single F40 while
doing all this. Amtrak accountants have theorized that the fuel savings
alone pay for the locomotive in a few years.
P40 Specs:
Net Power 2984kW
4000hp
Max T/E 374.7kN 84250lbs #Est
Cont T/E 253.6kN 57000lbs #Est
Gross Weight 120 metric Tons fully provisioned.
Due to the use of a HEP AC inverter running off the main alternator/generator,
the need for constant prime mover speed that the F40 had for HEP frequency
control was eliminated. This produces tremendous savings in fuel, noise
pollution and atmospheric pollution compared to the F40.
Credit:
Jens-Chris Baerenz - NALW for the Model and
P42 Textures
Michael MacFall - NALW P40dc and P32ac Textures
Graeme Cox - NALW for the Genesis Cab View(s)
Andy Hockin - Maple Leaf Trax for the GE FDL Sounds.
Matt Donnelly - NALW for the K5LA Horn and Amtrak Bell(s)
Chuck Schneider - NALW for the Lighting, Physics, Sound Tuning and Packaging.
Beta Testers - Tony Baerenz, Jens-Chris Baerenz, Graeme Cox, Matt Donnelly,
Tim Kent, Harold Clitheroe and Phil Moberg
© 2002 North American Locomotive Works. All rights reserved!
All release dates subject to change without notice.
© 2002 North American Locomotive Works. All rights reserved.