Railroading

GMDH-3 Diesel Engine

I came across this small switcher engine sitting in a small industrial yard in Clinton, MI in April of 1998. I was immediately taken by the 50's era style nose. Luckily, I never go on vacation without my camera. As soon as the photos were developed, I picked the best three and had 11x14 prints made. They are now framed and grace the wall of my home and work office.

The engine is the #275 demonstrator model GMDH-3 Switcher made by General Motors in their London, Ontario plant in 1960. It was styled to resemble GM's "Train of Tomorrow." The GMDH-3, which operates with a 8V-71 Detroit Diesel engine and an Allison transmission, was purchased by the Southern Michigan Railroad in 1996. It was used in industry until 1992.

In March of 2001 I heard from then President of the SMRS, Cynthia Given, who happened across this page. She informs me that the GMDH, while still being restored, is up and operating, and was used in 2000 and 2001 on their excursion trips. Here's what else Cynthia says was going on:

"As to Southern Michigan Railroad, we will start our excursion operations between Clinton and Tecumseh from May through September on Sundays. We also book tour groups on Thursdays and some Saturdays as engineers are available.

In October we hold "Fall Color Tours" where we load in Tecumseh and follow the line to Raisin Center where it is separated by the Norfolk line. We stop there and have cider and donuts and return trip to Tecumseh. This is both Saturday and Sundays."

To schedule a group or reserve your ticket call SMRS office at 517-456-7677. www.southernmichiganrailroad.com