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Here are three views of the first of Metra's newest locomotives. Built by Motive Power Industries of Boise, Idaho, these will replace Metra's oldest units, the F40PC, 15 of which entered service in 1974 on the Milwaukee Road's West (to Elgin) and Northwest (to Fox Lake) commuter lines. The remaining 11 new units (out of a total of 26) will power trains on other Metra districts. The last of the 26 locos are scheduled to be delivered by mid-2004.
No. 402 made its first main-line test run, pulling two bi-level coaches, on Thursday, Feb. 13, from Metra's BNSF "Zephyr Pit" at Roosevelt Road and Canal Street in the South Loop to the end of the BNSF commuter line in Aurora, and back to the Zephyr Pit.
These new locos have significant technological improvements: aerodynamic styling; stronger collision posts and corner posts, etc., which comply with the latest FRA regulations; higher horsepower (3,800 versus the F40PC's 3,200); larger fuel tanks (2,400 vs. 1,900); greater fuel efficiency; an 500-KW inverter to supply electrical power to the coaches; microprocessor propulsion control; an electronically controlled air-brake system; and an electronically applied handbrake. They are geared for a top speed of 88 MPH. The new locos also comply with EPA Tier I exhaust-emission requirements. Finally, the rear end of each unit is accessible from the ground via a side door.
With regard to product support, the training program provided by Motive Power Industries will cover the specific requirements for training not only operating and mechanical personnel, but also materials management. The program also includes the development of training aids which will become the property of Metra after the completion of the training program. This will enhance Metra's ability to train new employees on the operation and maintenance of the new locos.