Multiple-Unit Genset Control -- MQT Press Release

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Marquette Rail World Headquarters- Grand Rapids, Michigan --- Press Release

Marquette Rail in conjunction with Gentex Corporation* has developed a new locomotive control system aimed at reducing fuel and maintenance costs and improving efficiency. The new system, developed in a joint-partnership, Multiple-unit Genset Control combines the "Genset" idea with multiple unit running. Marquette Rail owns the technology with Gentex having exclusive manufacturing rights. MQT has FRA and AAR certification in hand for this technology.

The new system works either as a software overlay (there is a small new computer core that becomes part of the control stand) on new units or installing new hardware on older units. The new hardware is run through the electrical connections between locomotives on the point of the train. Based on the multiple-engine idea of Genset locomotives, MUGC takes control of the throttles on each unit coupled up together, and runs each unit as little as possible based on the horsepower demand from the engineer, even turning off/idling locomotives whose power is not needed, yet is able to bring them back online to full power in as little as a second. This replaces any need to send the conductor back to trailing units to turn off/re-start units if needed, and gives trains more horsepower flexibility. Since each engine is custom-run by the MUGC computer, one engine can be run in "notch 1" while another is in "notch 8".

The system takes only a few moments to set up, and is as simple as connecting up the unit's electronic cables, entering locomotive data into the display on the engineer's control stand, and running a quick test-fire. In the case of a malfunction by the computer, such as those when the computer won't start, the train can be run as a traditional multiple-unit consist.

Because the engines run less, they require less fuel, lube oil and other consumables. They also experiance less wear and tear, so parts are replaced less frequently.

Testing has been performed on tourist and short freight trains in Marquette Rail GP9-3s #2001 thru 2005. While this first system only controls the throttle, the latest version developed by Gentex also controls sanding, lights, horn and other functions on trailing units along with displaying locomotive data - in real time. The computer can also run diagnostic tests for many malfunctions that occur in areas of the locomotives controlled by the system.

This system will soon be available to other railroads, installed by Marquette in their locomotive shops in Grand Rapids, Michigan. You can also order the system as a kit and install it on-site. Contact Marquette if interested at their main number, extension 33.


***This is Fiction. This is Fantasyland. Not Affiliated with Gentex Corp or Marquette Rail (MQT) or RailAmerica or Genesse and Wyoming***

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Installation Dates:

- Into Leased/Purchased MQTX Units 11-1-12
- Into any units at MQT Shops 12-1-12
- Available as a kit 12-1-12

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MQT crews will start installing the system into our SD70ACes & SD70MACs during the quarterlies starting in December. In Addition, any unit brought into the shops for major repairs/upgrading will also get the new hardware.