The SW9 locomotive continued Electro-Motive Division’s excellence in creating small, compact “switcher” engines for yard and local service. From November 1950 to December 1953, nearly 800 SW9s were built at the LaGrange production facility. Meanwhile, in London, Ontario, GMDD produced 29 units for Canadian National and Canadian Pacific.

The SW9 was equipped with the popular 567B prime mover, with a handful receiving the upgraded 567BC motors, which later powered the SW1200 series. An impressive 69 railroads—including industrial, short lines, and class one roads—purchased the SW9! Notably, the Illinois Central placed the largest order, acquiring 70 SW9s during the production run.

The Rapido Trains HO Scale SW9 Locomotive Features:

• Highly detailed cab interior
• See-through metal etched parts
• Many road-specific details
• Heavy diecast frame
• Diecast gear boxes for added weight
• Rapido Semi Scale metal couplers
• Full LED lighting, including operating beacons/flashing lights where appropriate
• DC/DCC/ESU LokSound
• Featuring the Rapido MoPower capacitor

Soo Line "Twin Ports" Duluth and Superior 2-Unit Set

In 1978, the Soo Line repainted SW9 #2119 into a tribute scheme dedicated to the Port of Superior. This scheme was unveiled just in time for Railroad Appreciation Day in Superior, Wisconsin. The following year, in 1979, SW9 #2118 was repainted into a similar scheme, this time featuring "Duluth" on its sides. Together, these two SW9 locomotives handled transfer jobs between the two ports.

Soo Line 2118 and 2119 2-Unit Set Features:

• Dual Leslie airhorns
• Spark arrestors
• Beacons on the cab roof
• Brass-colored bells
• Wave graphics with "Duluth" or "Superior"