Meet Metra’s newest locomotive NEWSWIRE

CHICAGO — Metra, Chicago’s commuter operator, received its first rebuilt F40PH No. 175 in early September from Progress Rail Services in Patterson, Ga. Progress Rail is rebuilding 42 F40PHs and F40PHM-2s for Metra over the next three years. The rebuilds will feature a new EM2000 microprocessor control system, and remanufactured prime movers with EPA Tier 0+ emission standards.

The main generator, traction motors, trucks, and braking systems will also be completely rebuilt, as will the prime mover-powered head-end power system (providing electricity for on-board lighting, heating, air conditioning, exhaust fans, and door motors). Positive train control equipment and a closed-circuit camera monitoring system will also be installed. All of the locomotives will be decorated in Metra’s newest paint scheme which was first worn by the railroads fleet of MP36PH-3s.

Metra Engineer Kyle Nanfeldt developed the design for this scheme to be applied on the railroads newest locomotive acquisition, F59PHs Nos. 97-99, as well as No. 175, and all subsequent rebuilds and locomotive acquisitions.

For a detailed feature story on Metra’s locomotive fleet, including an exclusive foldout cover photo, check out Locomotive 2016, available in late September.