The 1,600 hp (1,200 kW) FA-2/FB-2 (along with the FPA-2/FPB-2 variants) was built between October 1950 and June 1956. Finally, the 1,800 hp (1,300 kW) FPA-4/FPB-4, powered by the 251 V-12 engine, was built between October 1958 and May 1959 by ALCO's Canadian subsidiary, Montreal Locomotive Works (MLW). [citation needed]

Aug 28, 2024 · The FPA-4 was the Montreal Locomotive Works' final streamlined cab design and the only one to boast Alco's 251 power plant. The model was known for its robust performance and versatility, primarily designed for passenger service.

The MLW/ALCO FP-4 is a type of 1,800 hp four-axle diesel locomotive which consists of 2 forms: the FPA-4 "A" unit, and the "B" unit being the FPB-4. The locomotives were powered by the then-new ALCO 12-251 engines, and were some of the first …

Canadian National No. 6789 is an FPA-4 type diesel locomotive built in April of 1959 by the Montreal Locomotive Works of Montreal, Canada for use on passenger trains on the Canadian National Railway (CNR).

Jan 9, 2024 · The culmination of the FA series design, the FPA-4 and FPB-4 enjoyed a significantly longer service life than most earlier models thanks in large part to the reliability and parts availability of the 251 engine.

The new MLW cab and booster units featured a 251B series powerplant that produced 1800 horsepower. Delivered to the CN between October, 1958 and May, 1959, the FPA/B-4 production consisted of 34 cab units and 12 boosters. There were also two FPA-2s that were re-engined with the 251B prime mover.

The FPA-4 was Montreal Locomotive Works’ answer to GMDs FP9 series of passenger diesel locomotives in the late 1950s. An evolution of the earlier FPA-2, these units were powered by an ALCO 12-cylinder 251 prime mover. CN ordered 34 A-units and 12 B-units, which were delivered between 1958 and 1959.

Dec 21, 2024 · Finally, Alco offered a passenger version of its FA, the FPA-2 and FPA-4 which sold modestly (it should be noted that the final model, the FPA-4, used Alco's much improved 251 model engine although by the time it was released the builder had already lost most confidence from railroads in its ability to produce reliable locomotives).

MLW FPA roster

On February 8, 1986 there was a serious head on collision between a freight train and a VIA passenger train near Hinton, Alberta, which claimed 23 lives.