Big Diesel Power On The Corridor. On the afternoon of April 15, 2017. Norfolk Southern Corp 7216 (ex-CR 4129, née-EMDX 8001, SD80MAC, 7/1995) lead train 66X past the former Elkton, Maryland passenger station on Amtrak's Northeast Corridor Line. The recent announcement that Progress Rail has scrapped all 23 SD80MAC bodies in their possession leaves only the 6 that were purchased as parts units in the possession of Canadian Pacific Railroad (1 was previously scrapped). The use of AC power, a 5,000 horsepower 20-cylinder engine, and radial trucks were just some of the then unusual features combined in the SD80MACs, which were rostered only by Conrail. While it is reported that and additional 108 units were planned, only 30 were produced. The imminent takeover of Conrail by Norfolk Southern and CSX meant a change in the future plan for the order, with both railroads opting for EMD SD70 variations. The Elkton Station is also a story of being caught in the middle of 2 large parties. On January 1, 1983, Conrail exited the passenger operations business, with SEPTA operating service to Newark, Delaware and MDOT (later MARC) to Perryville, Maryland. The Amtrak "Chesapeake" would be the last train to stop here, and as neither agency wanted to extend their service and ridership was not deemed sufficient to alter the schedule of other trains, the Elkton Station was closed on October 30, 1983.
From all American railroads, you will see all of the American railroad heritage units, Orginal paints, and sticker units displayed in this album by Railfan 225!
