The diesel locomotive sent shock waves through rigid corporate cultures and staid government regulators. For some, the new technology promised to be a source of enormous profits; for others, the railroad industry seemed a threat to their very livelihoods. Evolution of the American Diesel Locomotive introduces the reader to the important technological advances that gave rise to diesel engines, examining not only their impact on locomotive design, but also their impact on the economic and social landscapes. J. Parker Lamb describes the development of these technologies, allowing the reader to fully understand how they were integrated and formed a commercially successful locomotive. Like its companion volume, Perfecting the American Steam Locomotive (IUP, 2003), this book emphasizes the role of the leading engineers whose innovations paved the way for critical breakthroughs. Rail fans will appreciate this authoritative work.

A comprehensive narrative of the development of the American diesel locomotive

About the Author

J. Parker Lamb retired in 2001, after a 42-year career as a practicing engineer and university instructor, to pursue his life-long interest in the history of American technology with an emphasis on railroad developments. He has authored four books, including Perfecting the American Steam Locomotive (IUP, 2003). He lives in Austin, Texas.

Reviews

A host of books and articles have touched on various aspects of this ongoing story over the years, but none tell the story with the completeness and superb clarity found here. May - June 2010

* Michigan Railfan *

Lamb's book is . . . an important contribution to railroad technological history. The book's strength is the author's mastery of the mechanical details, which he presents in a straightforward style.

-- Mark Reutter, editor * Railroad History *

Lamb provides the reader with detailed descriptions of every generation of diesel locomotive along with a generous supply of excellent photographs. July 2008

-- Maury Klein * Technology and Culture vol. 49 *



Book Information
ISBN 9780253348630
Author J. Parker Lamb
Format Hardback
Page Count 200
Imprint Indiana University Press
Publisher Indiana University Press
Weight(grams) 907g