U.S. Steel 112 (ALCo), 1942
Builder: American Locomotive Company (Schenectady, New York)
Type: S-2 diesel-electric switcher
Wheel Arrangement: B-B
Classification: Locomotive
Original Owner/Use: U.S. Steel #112 (originally Michigan Limestone & Chemical Company #112), for industrial switching in quarry supporting steel operations
The U.S. Steel 112 (TLEW 112) is a classic example of early WWII-era diesel switcher technology. Built as part of ALCO’s highly successful S-series, it served in heavy industrial switching roles before finding a new home at the Toledo, Lake Erie & Western Railway and Museum, where it became part of the original roster and later a valuable parts source.
Build and Early Service
The 112 was constructed by the American Locomotive Company (ALCo) in Schenectady, New York, in September 1942 (builder’s serial number 69921), as an S-2 model. It was delivered new to the Michigan Limestone & Chemical Company (a US Steel subsidiary) as their #112 at their Rogers City, MI limestone operation. Equipped with a 1,000 horsepower ALCo 539 turbocharged 6-cylinder prime mover and distinctive “Blunt” trucks, the S-2 was ideal for tight curves, yard work, and industrial trackage common in mid-20th century America.
Service Life
After decades of reliable industrial service, the locomotive was acquired by the Toledo, Lake Erie & Western Railway in May of 1988. It became a key part of the museum’s early operations, pulling excursions and performing switching. It served actively into the early 2000s before major mechanical issues led to its retirement from operation. Since then, it has been a reliable part source to keep the #5109 operational.
Preservation and Current Status
US Steel 112 remains preserved in the museum’s outdoor collection as a static display and parts donor, representing the transition from steam to diesel in American industrial railroading. While not currently operational, it contributes to the museum’s educational mission and supports maintenance of the active fleet.
Today, the locomotive is located in the North Yard area and is not readily accessible for safe viewing. Please use the museum’s interactive map to discover its exact location. As with all equipment, please admire from the ground and respect barriers for safety.
Specifications
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Builder | American Locomotive Company (Schenectady, New York) |
| Model | S-2 |
| Built | September 1942 |
| Serial Number | 69921 |
| Prime Mover | ALCo 539 (turbocharged, 6-cylinder inline diesel) |
| Horsepower | 1,000 hp (746 kW) @ 740 rpm |
| Cylinders | 6 |
| Wheel Arrangement | B-B |
| Trucks | ALCo “Blunt” |
| Length | 46 ft |
| Weight | 230,000 lb (104,326 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 635 US gal (2,404 L) |
| Generator | GE GT 553-A |
| Traction Motors | GE 731 (4) |
| Top Speed | Approximately 60 mph (limited in switching) |
Collection Details
Preserved in the Toledo, Lake Erie & Western Railway and Museum outdoor collection
Accession: N/A | Acquired: N/A | Status: On Display