Matt Hagfors
LeTourneau Drive System RD20
The one and only RD20 sits at the ILSX shop in Bethel MN.
Quoted from Page 42, June 1993 Railfan and Railroad
"The RD20 In mid-March 1993, Republic Locomotive announced it had successfully field tested its new RD20 model locomotive. Developed in conjuction with Detroit Diesel Corporation, the four-axeled RD20 prototype features a 2000-hp Detroit Diesel 16V-149TI DDEC engine, an 8000 amp a.c. alternator and d.c. traction motors. Republic says "the RD20 is the first diesel locomotive produced in North America to utilize a totally solid state Silicon Controlled Rectifier control system" which "eliminates all electromechanical switchgear, contactors and relays while permitting individual axel control for improved wheel slip control." The RD20 can be operated with a cruise control-style feature which automatically maintains a set speed regardless of changes in track curvature and gradient. A cellular communications package transmits locomotive diagnostic information which can be monitored remotely by maintenance personnel at any location with access to a computer, modem and phone line. Republic's RD20 design can be modified for any horsepower rating up to 2500 h.p. and is available in four- and six-axel configurations in most track gauges. An optional Head End Power generator is also available."
LeTourneau Drive System RD20
The one and only RD20 sits at the ILSX shop in Bethel MN.
Quoted from Page 42, June 1993 Railfan and Railroad
"The RD20 In mid-March 1993, Republic Locomotive announced it had successfully field tested its new RD20 model locomotive. Developed in conjuction with Detroit Diesel Corporation, the four-axeled RD20 prototype features a 2000-hp Detroit Diesel 16V-149TI DDEC engine, an 8000 amp a.c. alternator and d.c. traction motors. Republic says "the RD20 is the first diesel locomotive produced in North America to utilize a totally solid state Silicon Controlled Rectifier control system" which "eliminates all electromechanical switchgear, contactors and relays while permitting individual axel control for improved wheel slip control." The RD20 can be operated with a cruise control-style feature which automatically maintains a set speed regardless of changes in track curvature and gradient. A cellular communications package transmits locomotive diagnostic information which can be monitored remotely by maintenance personnel at any location with access to a computer, modem and phone line. Republic's RD20 design can be modified for any horsepower rating up to 2500 h.p. and is available in four- and six-axel configurations in most track gauges. An optional Head End Power generator is also available."