ALCO PA at a glance
| Builder | American Locomotive Company |
|---|---|
| Power | PA-1: 2,000 hp; PA-2: 2,250 hp |
| Prime mover | ALCO 16-cylinder 244 |
| Wheel arrangement | A1A-A1A |
| Production | 1946–1953 |
| Body style | Streamlined cab unit |
| Primary role | Passenger service |
A passenger locomotive with presence
The ALCO PA was built to compete in the postwar passenger-locomotive market. Its long, sculpted nose and large carbody gave it a very different appearance from EMD's E and F units.
PA-1 and PA-2
The earlier PA-1/PB-1 versions were rated at 2,000 horsepower. Later PA-2/PB-2 units were rated at 2,250 horsepower.
A1A-A1A trucks
Each truck had three axles, but only two were powered. The center axle was unpowered, helping distribute the locomotive's weight.
Why railfans remember it
Even though EMD dominated the passenger-diesel market, the PA's styling, sound and rarity made surviving examples especially celebrated among railroad enthusiasts.
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