Originally intended for use on branch lines, EMD introduced its Special Duty series in 1952 with the SD7. This loco also introduced the three-axle Flexi-Coil truck with its powered center axle. This was a major departure from earlier three-axle designs where an unpowered center axle was used to spread the engine's weight over more wheels, reducing the strain on the lighter rail and lower capacity bridges found on branches. EMD's design not only spread the weight but the extra traction motors provided a bit more power to get trains started. The SD's longer trucks required a longer frame, and buyers could also specify a heavier frame for engines working transfers and other low speed service. Somewhat underpowered with only 1500 horsepower (same as a four-axle GP7), only 188 SD7s were built from February of 1952 through November of 1953; the more powerful SD9 was introduced the following January.

FEATURES

• Limited Edition – One Time Run of These Roadnumbers!
• Road-Specific Detailing
• Factory Installed Wind Deflectors & Breather Pipes Per Prototype!
• Available with Tsunami® Sound for DCC & Standard DC Layouts
• 14:1 Ratio Helical Gears for Smooth, Quiet Performance
• 5-Pole Skew-Wound High-Torque High-Efficiency Can Motor
• All-Wheel Drive & Electrical Pickup
• Machined Brass Flywheels
• Constant & Directional LED Headlights
• Heavy Die Cast Chassis
• RP-25 Metal Wheels
• Proto MAX™ Magnetic Knuckle

BLE Specific Features

• New Paint Scheme – End Logos Eliminated for Sand Filler Hatches
• Long Hood Forward Operation
• Standard-Style Coupler Cut Lever
• Steam Generator
• Winterization Hatch
• Dynamic Brakes
• Nathan M5 Horn
• Sand Hatch Covers Below Headlights on Both Ends
• Rerail Frogs on Front Truck Sideframe
• Pilots with Footboards
• Tsunami Sound & DCC Available