Withers EMD's SW1500: Second-Generation Workhorse by Diesel Era

Following a long progression of end-cab switchers beginning in 1939, EMD’s SW1500 model was introduced at the zenith of switcher production, the 1960s and 1970s. Featuring the builder’s newly introduced 645-series prime mover, the model offered customers a unit that was suitable for yard, local, and even road freight service.

During the model’s eight-year production cycle, no distinct construction changes took place, but options specified by the 58 original customers, such as truck style, fuel tank capacity, and handrail placement, divided the production into eight separate groups.