Before and After

by Keith MacCauley  

CP 5500 was released from GMD London in July of 1966, reportedly the first Canadian built SD40. Part of a group of some sixty-five CP SD40’s, the builder’s initial sub par traction control caused the railway to switch manufacturers, albeit, temporarily. Subsequent dissatisfaction with GMD/GMDD competitor MLW ended their relationship. Development of the SD40 into the SD40-2 would result in one of the most popular locomotive of all time, and CP would acquire several hundred of the improved model. Remarkably, aside from paint, CP 5500 looks very much as delivered. Fortunately, someone at Canadian Pacific recognised the historical significance of their first six motor London Ontario built product. Following its 2001 retirement, in 2007 CP 5500 was donated to the Revelstoke Railway Museum. Further to building a protective pavilion, the museum is fundraising to perform a cosmetic restoration. For more information on the locomotive and museum go to; https://www.trainweb.us/cprdieselroster/ and Revelstoke Railway Museum WebsiteCPR Diesel SD 550