Nostalgia & History > Just a couple of SP/SSW GP9s in Watsonville in 1974

Photo 1 - Cotton Belt GP9 3648 in Watsonville Junction, California in December 1974.

According to good sources, including Strapac's fantastic SP Compendium series, SSW 3648 was built in May 1959 by EMD as a model GP9, builders number 25017, SSW 827, SSW Class Z-17. In 1965 it was renumbered to SSW 3648 SP Class EF418C-2.
The disposition of this locomotive is, not upgraded, retired Jan 1987 sold to Wilson Rail Services, chopnosed in April 1988 became Farmrail 3648.

Photo 2 - Southern Pacific GP9R 3401 in Watsonville Junction, California in December 1974. Cotton Belt GP9 3648 is in front of it and it appears the GP9 behind it is 3461.

SP 3401 was built in Nov. 1956 by EMD as a model GP9, builders number 21338, SP 5645, SP Class DF-607. In 1965 it was renumbered to SP 3478, SP Class EF418-6.
This locomotive was upgraded 1n August 1974 emerging as Southern Pacific GP9R 3401 SP Class EF418E-2.
The disposition of this locomotive is, wrecked and retired Sept 1990, sold for scrap.

Information, stories, suggestions, comments and/or constructive corrections are appreciated.

~Steve Sloan
San Jose, CA

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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 06/12/14 20:40 by ssloansjca.

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Nice pair Steve, thanks for sharing.

Kent in Carmel Valley

Thanks Kent. In 1974 this was SOS.

~Steve

Nice couple of shots of the "good ol SP" Enjoyed having dinner with you and your lady at Dornfest.

John Shaw

Thanks yes, that was a lot of fun.

~Steve