The “direct drive” tag at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum delves into the fascinating world of direct drive mechanisms, a crucial component in the evolution of locomotive technology. This tag offers enthusiasts and historians alike a closer look at how direct drive systems have powered some of the most iconic steam and diesel locomotives, their engineering principles, and the impact they’ve had on efficiency and performance. Join us as we explore the intricacies, innovations, and stories behind the direct drive systems that have propelled the giants of the rails.
Behind the Scenes: Replacing a Locomotive’s Traction Motor As many of you know, most diesel locomotives are not going to be “direct drive” units, but are powered using a “diesel-electric” system. This system works by having the unit’s diesel motor (prime mover in railroad vernacular) turn a generator to create electricity, which is then sent…
