The ALCO C424 model was one of the first “Century-series” locomotives to be produced. Its 16-cylinder 251B-series prime mover produced 2,400-hp, making it a direct competitor to the 2,500-hp GE U25B and EMD GP35 models. A total of 190 units were built between 1963 and 1966 for customers throughout North America, including 53 for roads in the US, 92 for Canada and 45 for Mexico. Erie Lackawanna, Canadian Pacific and National de Mexico purchased some of the largest fleets in their respective countries.

By late 1964 ALCO had determined that an extra 100-hp did make a difference to some customers, and the 2,500-hp C425 model was the result. Improvements over the C424 included a higher capacity main generator, a simplified electrical control system, increased radiator capacity and an upgraded 251C prime mover. The appearance of the body was nearly identical to the C424, with one major exception being the addition of a bulge above the radiator intake grille at the rear of the long hood. A total of 90 units were produced between late 1964 and 1966, all for US roads. The largest purchases were made by Pennsylvania and Spokane Portland & Seattle.

Special Notes:

Green Bay & Western 314 was a one-of-a-kind in that it was the only phase 3 C424 on their roster. This locomotive is still in service today as Minnesota Commercial (MNNR) 314 which is also being produced along with sister unit MNNR 313, an ex-GBW phase 2 C424 of the same number.

Another example of an ALCO Century “before and after” is the British Columbia Railway. Several BCR C425s were sold to the Mohawk Adirondack & Northern (MHWA) in the early 90s and several of these units are still in service today. Our models represent units that were only “patched” for service on the MHWA and still retain their BCR colors.

Finally, the Lake State Railway Centuries represent the only two former Detroit & Mackinac C425s that were repainted by their current owner, the successor to the D&M. These units are still in service today, operating mainly on the former D&M lines owned by the Lake State Railway.