Rock Island Locomotive Portfolio
1950-1980
By Stephen M. Timko.
Softcover, 11x8.5" horizontal format, 96 all color pages. 2018.
"To say the Rock Island’s locomotive roster was unique is an understatement – from the unorthodox purchasing of 44-tonners from Davenport and Whitcomb rather than then-standard General Electric, to the late Alco-era C-415 switcher model and EMD (and EMC) TA and AB models, to the standard E7 and E8 designs.
"Alco cab and booster units, re-engined by EMD, oddball Lima 800 HP LS800 models, and other abnormalities made The Rock a railfan's paradise in the 1960s-70s. Running on a shoestring budget in later years, the Rock Island acquired used locomotives from many sources, often through local supplier Precision National Corporation and suitor Union Pacific RR. Diesel fans will enjoy exploring the roster of this railfan legend with diesel authority Steve Timko."
