This Train Changed America Forever - EMD F7 Diesel Locomotive - How its made

Discover the legendary EMD F7 Diesel Locomotive, one of the most iconic engines ever to run on American rails. In this video, we explore why this locomotive became a symbol of the diesel revolution and how it reshaped railroading across North America.

🔶 Why the EMD F7 Is Special

The F7 is more than a locomotive — it represents the turning point from steam to diesel in the United States. Its unmistakable bulldog nose, streamlined body, and famous paint schemes (like the Santa Fe Warbonnet) made it an instant design icon.

🔧 How It Was Built

Produced by the Electro-Motive Division (EMD) between 1949 and 1953, the F7 was engineered for reliability and mass production. Its welded steel body and modular internal components allowed railroads to maintain them more easily than steam engines. The F7 quickly became the backbone of American freight and passenger services.

📊 Specifications

Power: 1,500 horsepower

Engine: EMD 567B two-stroke V16 diesel

Top speed: Up to 65–80 mph (depending on gearing)

Tractive effort: ~40,000+ lbs

Weight: Approx. 230,000 lbs

Configuration: A and B units (cab unit + booster)

⚙️ Technical Highlights

Robust 567-series prime mover renowned for durability

Dual-service capability: powered both freight and passenger trains

Advanced (for its time) electrical multiple-unit control

Smooth, streamlined aerodynamics that reduced drag

Highly modular design, making repairs fast and cost-effective

📍 Current Status and Use

Many F7s have been retired, but several units survive in museums and on heritage railroads. A few still operate on excursion trains, keeping the legacy of early diesel power alive. The Santa Fe F7 sets, in particular, continue to draw massive attention from railfans worldwide.

📜 Why Its History Matters

The EMD F7 represents the beginning of modern railroading. It replaced steam engines on major lines, introduced a new era of efficiency, and shaped the look of American trains for decades. To this day, the F7 remains one of the most photographed and beloved locomotives in U.S. history.