LIRR Alco RS1-3 Spotting Info

LIRR Alco RS1-3 Spotting Info

RS3 #1556 - RS1 #461 at Oyster Bay c.1968 - Photo/Archive: Richard Glueck

The easiest way to recognize them in LIRR service is to know their numbering sequences. That’s how I do it. Dave Keller #461-469 = RS1 (1000 hp) #1519-1520 = RS2 (1500 hp) #1551-1560 = RS3 (1600 hp)
LIRR RS1 #467	LIRR RS1 #468
Photos by Jules P. Krzenski, Dave Keller Archive
You’ll notice the cab has an overhang on both sides of the arched roof and the stack has a triangular base. Handrail configuration is different from the RS2 According to the Diesel Spotter’s Guide, the trucks are the same, but the trucks shown on the RS2 below appear to be of a different style. The nose is more square at the top and sides. RS2 and RS3 units have more rounded noses. Rectangular fan housing atop the long nose. RS2 and RS3 have large, round fan housing. “Resembles the S2/S4 on a lengthened under-frame with type B road trucks and a short hood which, optionally, could house a steam generator.” The Second Diesel Spotter’s Guide
LIRR RS2 #1520 Photo by Jules P. Krzenski, Dave Keller Archive	Rectangular stack. Round fan housing atop the long hood. Rounded nose. No battery box on running board behind the cab. RS3 DOES have this box. On the Rs2 “it hangs under the frame, between the truck and the air reservoir. Fuel cap present on the cab. Short hood is slightly narrower than on the RS3 as can be noticed in a direct end view. Built to operate long nose first.” The Second Diesel Spotter’s Guide
LIRR RS3 #1553 Photo by Jules P. Krzenski, Dave Keller Archive	Battery box on running board behind the cab is the main difference in exterior design. Fuel fill cap no longer located on the side of the cab. “A crosswise stack indicates that the unit has the newer water-cooled turbocharger which has almost universally replaced the old air-cooled turbocharger indicated by a lengthwise-mounted stack.” The Second Diesel Spotter’s Guide"
All data courtesy of Dave Keller

02/05/2024