Just read the Brief on the C&W VO-1000. could somebody explain what "VO" stood for and also "AS" as in AS 616? Thanks.

Superheater@rrmail.com

> Just read the Brief on the C&W VO-1000.
> could somebody explain what "VO"
> stood for and also "AS" as in AS
> 616? Thanks.

Well, this really just moves the problem back one step, but the VO's were named for their prime mover, the model VO 6- or 8-cyl inline, adapted from the De La Vergne marine engine. Why the prime mover was called VO I do not know--maybe the V comes from Vergne?

As for AS, I have seen it said that it stood for All Service (locomotive could be used in all applications and services), as opposed to S=switcher, DRS=diesel/road switcher, or DT=diesel/transfer service, DR=diesel/road service, and so on. Seems reasonable, but I can't vouch for the truth of it, however.



eledbetter@rypn.org

The VO was the engine used in WWII-era BLW's; they came as a 6-cylinder (660 HP) or an 8-cylinder (1000 HP)

The models reflected the use: AS 616 means 6 motors, 1600 HP. BLW or BLH AS 616 would have the later 608SC engine. 8-cylinders, supercharged (actually turbocharged)



Electric City Trolley Museum Association

From reading John f. Kirkland's THE DIESEL BUILDERS, VOLUME THREE: BALDWIN LOCOMOTIVE WORKS this is how the nominclature works:

"VO" comes from Vertical inline Oil engine.

The "AS16" designation was part of a change in model designations made in 1950 with a diesel engine upgrade. The "AS16" indicates 1600HP B-B "All Service" road switchers. The "AS616" was used to indicate a 1600HP C-C unit. The "AS416" was used to indicate a 1600HP A1A-A1A units.

Brian Norden

bnorden49@earthlink.net