Atlas O SW Series Locomotives

The EMD SW8 and SW9 were part of a highly successful line of diesel-electric switcher locomotives built by Electro-Motive Division (EMD) during the post–World War II transition from steam to diesel power. Introduced in 1950, the SW8 was essentially an evolution of earlier EMD switchers such as the SW7, designed for yard and industrial switching duties. It was powered by an 8-cylinder 567B diesel engine producing 800 horsepower, which provided reliable, low-speed tractive effort ideal for assembling trains, moving cars within terminals, and serving industries. Railroads appreciated the SW8 for its rugged simplicity, ease of maintenance, and excellent visibility from the cab—features that made it a dependable workhorse across North America.

The SW9 followed in 1951 as a slightly more powerful and refined version, equipped with a 12-cylinder 567C engine rated at 1,200 horsepower. While visually very similar to the SW8, the SW9 offered improved performance and became one of EMD’s most popular switchers, with over 700 units produced. They were widely used not only by major Class I railroads but also by short lines and industrial operators, where their durability and versatility made them especially valuable. Their longevity is a testament to EMD’s conservative engineering philosophy and the practical demands of switching service. Today, preserved examples can be found in museums and tourist railroads, while others continue to work quietly in industrial settings, carrying forward a legacy that reflects one of the most important phases in railroad dieselization.

Features:

• Prototypical handrail detail
  
• Die-cast chassis, truck side frames and hood
• Standard or m.u. type pilots as per the railroad
• Scale handrails and cut levers
• Separately-applied grab irons
• See-through steps and footboards
• Detailed cab interior with fully painted crew figures
• See-through etched metal grilles
• Eight wheel drive
• Dual flywheel equipped precision 5-pole can motor
• Accurate painting and printing
• Minimum diameter curve: O-31 (3-Rail)
• Minimum radius curve: 36” (2-Rail)

Sound Equipped Features (2026+):

• Locomotive Speed Control In Scale MPH Increments
  
• Proto-Sound 3.0 With The Digital Command System Featuring Freight Yard Proto-Effects

TMCC Features:

• Electric Railroad Co. “Cruise Commander” Technology
• IMPROVED RailSounds™ digital sound system
• LEGACY COMPATIBLE (100 Speed Steps)
• Electro-couplers
• Lionel® TrainMaster Command Control

2-Rail Gold Features: (2-Rail Gold Series Locomotives Only)

• Sound equipped

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