MILWAUKEE ROAD 5900 & 5901

The Milwaukee Road 5900 was a home-built diesel electric motor car that earned the affectionate nickname "Bulldog" for its distinctive blunt nose. It had an innovative design and played a role in modernizing passenger service, leaving a legacy behind on the Milwaukee Road.

A Unique Design for a New Era

In 1948, the Milwaukee Road introduced two unique home-built diesel units, No. 5900 and No. 5901. Officially designated as "Diesel Electric Motor Cars," these locomotives quickly gained the nickname "Bulldogs" due to their distinctive, blunt noses. This innovative design combined the power of a GM 12-567-A engine with the utility of a baggage car, making them ideal for replacing aging steam power in light passenger service.

Performance and Purpose

With a top speed of 75 mph and a tractive effort of 24,000 lbs., the "Bulldogs" were engineered for efficiency and versatility. Each unit was essentially half engine and half baggage car, allowing them to efficiently pull several passenger cars. This configuration made them perfect for commuter routes and smaller passenger trains, offering a glimpse into the future of streamlined rail travel.