The FM/ALCO locomotive engine is well known and respected as a long-lived powerhouse that drives powers icebreakers, tug boats, dredges, pumps, nuclear backup generators, and other applications demanding reliable, rugged, and dependable power. The FM/ALCO 251 locomotive engine also excels as a prime mover for locomotive use. In fact, the FM/ALCO 251 locomotive engine was originally designed for locomotive power. Since its inception, it is estimated that 15,000 locomotives powered by the ALCO 251 have been produced by ALCO and its worldwide licensees, covering every corner of the world with locomotives, from the utilitarian-duty 900 HP switchers to the 4400 mainline freight locomotives.
Fairbanks Morse Engine has a long history of manufacturing locomotive power equipment for the railroad industry. With the acquisition of the ALCO engine in 1994, two great manufacturers—FME and ALCO—came together. Today these two great names, merged under FME, continue to build and support the FM/ALCO 251 engine with uncompromising manufacturing standards, genuine OEM replacement parts, and comprehensive training and support services. ISO-certified quality assurance programs, innovative engineering, and unmatched customer support guarantee the finest workmanship in each new engine, while highly qualified service personnel stand ready to provide on-site service, perform minor repairs, troubleshoot, or even complete major overhauls anywhere in the world.
In March of 2007, FME assumed full responsibility for locomotive engine parts distribution to the locomotive industry, a service which it previously shared with the National Rail Equipment Company. This mutual decision was made so that FME could integrate locomotive engines and engine spare parts distribution into its larger customer service programming and promise the same high levels of OEM parts manufacturing and factory service support that are central to other FME engine products.
FME acquired the ALCO engine product line (FM/ALCO 251) for the stationary, marine, and locomotive power markets in 1994. The 4-stroke cycle ALCO 251 produces more power output with less fuel consumption, resulting in longer engine life and lower operating costs, making these engines extremely well-suited for demanding locomotive service. These engines offer high horsepower-to-weight ratios and thus generate more power within less space. The simple design of this engine offers standardization of components across all model configurations. This allows FME to take advantage of new materials and technology, to meet changing customer needs. These updates are offered to existing customers as part of the 251 Plus package. Plus technology can offer existing customers reduced fuel consumption at the same horsepower, or the option of additional horsepower.
|
