EMD SD40-2 Self Load

Self load testing an EMD SD40-2 locomotive Folks, it is evident that a lot of folks watching my videos aren't the slightest bit familiar with locomotive diagnostics and testing at a shop, and seem to have no idea what self loading is. For those who don't already know: Self load testing routes the power produced by the locomotive's engine and main generator to the dynamic brake grids, rather than to the traction motors. Think of it like a dynamometer. You are testing to verify the locomotive produces the correct horsepower, making sure the injector rack and load regulator are at the right position for the horsepower the unit is making, testing for electrical grounds, visually inspecting for leaks and such while all systems are in an operating state as far as temperature, pressure, and flow, and watching to see that your fluid temperatures and pressures stabilize at an acceptable level after a period of loading. You are also checking other things, like making sure cooling fans pick up and drop out at the correct temperatures, making sure blowers pick up when they need to, making sure the compressor picks up correctly in either high or low speed when it should based on air pressure and engine RPM, and such.