Why diesels won
Diesels could run longer between servicing stops, required less daily maintenance, and could be operated in multiple-unit consists from one cab.
A major workforce change
Dieselization reduced the need for many steam-era jobs in roundhouses, coaling towers, water facilities, and locomotive servicing.
Freight and passenger service
Diesels first proved their value in switching and streamlined passenger service, then rapidly expanded into mainline freight.
A new railroad landscape
As steam disappeared, many roundhouses, water towers, coal docks, and servicing facilities became obsolete.
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