ALCO PA vs. EMD E-Units: A Classic Locomotive Rivalry

ALCO PA vs. EMD E-Units: A Classic Locomotive Rivalry



The post-war era of American railroading saw fierce competition between locomotive manufacturers, particularly in the passenger train market. Two of the most iconic diesel-electric locomotives of the time were the ALCO PA and the EMD E-Units. Both were designed for high-speed passenger service, yet they followed very different paths in terms of reliability, performance, and longevity.

In this article, we’ll compare these two legendary locomotives to understand why the EMD E-Units outlasted the ALCO PAs, despite the PA’s striking design and initial promise.

Design and Aesthetics

One of the most striking differences between the ALCO PA and the EMD E-Units was their design.

  • ALCO PA: Designed by Raymond Loewy, the PA featured a long, streamlined body with a distinctive nose profile that gave it an aggressive yet elegant appearance. Many rail fans consider the PA to be one of the most beautiful locomotives ever built.
  • EMD E-Units: The E-Units had a more rounded, aerodynamic look, in line with the design philosophy of the Electro-Motive Division (EMD). While not as aggressive-looking as the PA, the E-Units had a classic and refined appearance that made them a staple of passenger rail.

Winner: ALCO PA – Its sleek, stylish design remains a favorite among rail enthusiasts.

Power and Performance

Both locomotives were designed for passenger service, requiring high horsepower and smooth performance at high speeds.

  • ALCO PA: Powered by the ALCO 244 V16 diesel engine, early models produced 2,000 horsepower, while later versions were upgraded to 2,250 HP. The PA was designed to pull long passenger trains at high speeds.
  • EMD E-Units: The E-Units, such as the EMD E7, E8, and E9, used EMD’s 567 series engines, producing between 2,000 and 2,400 horsepower (with twin 12-cylinder prime movers). These engines were well-known for their smooth and reliable performance.

Winner: EMD E-Units – While the PA had competitive horsepower, the E-Units offered more consistent performance and better reliability.

Reliability and Maintenance

This is where the ALCO PA began to fall behind.

  • ALCO PA: The PA’s 244 prime mover was known for mechanical failures and maintenance challenges. It suffered from overheating issues and crankshaft failures, leading to frequent repairs. Many railroads found the PA to be unreliable for long-term use.
  • EMD E-Units: The EMD 567 engine was one of the most reliable diesel engines of its time. It was easy to maintain, and EMD’s widespread parts availability made repairs straightforward. As a result, many E-Units remained in service long after the PA had been retired.

Winner: EMD E-Units – Their unmatched reliability ensured they remained in service for decades.

Longevity and Legacy

  • ALCO PA: Due to its reliability issues, most PAs were retired by the 1960s and 1970s. A few were rebuilt and used in Mexico before returning to the U.S. for restoration. Today, only a handful of PA locomotives survive.
  • EMD E-Units: Many E-Units operated into the 1980s and even the 1990s, with some preserved in museums or still in operation on heritage railroads. Their long service life is a testament to their durability.

Winner: EMD E-Units – Their long-term success makes them one of the most enduring passenger locomotives in history.

Final Verdict

While the ALCO PA was a visually stunning and powerful locomotive, its mechanical issues ultimately led to its downfall. The EMD E-Units, on the other hand, proved to be more reliable, easier to maintain, and longer-lasting, securing their place as the dominant passenger locomotives of their time.

Still, for rail fans and historians, the ALCO PA remains a beloved classic, representing a unique chapter in the history of American railroading.

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