FA/B Diesel Locomotives

Prototype Information

The ALCO FA and FB were built by the American Locomotive Company (ALCO) from 1946 to 1959. The FA led as a cab unit for road freight, while the FB followed as a booster controlled from an FA or another cab unit.

Each used ALCO’s 244-series diesel engine, generating 1,500–1,600 horsepower for heavy freight. Their bulldog nose design made them instantly recognizable.

Railroads such as the Pennsylvania Railroad, Norfolk & Western, New York Central, and Southern Railway ran FA/FB units throughout the 1940s and 1950s. Many later moved to regional lines or retired after decades of service.