I have been pondering this for awhile now and havent been able to answer it.

how do they maintain a constant Alternator speed if the engine speed varies???? By engine I mean the diesel powered V-16 or V-12 power unit inside. a certain alternator speed is required to be maintained to keep the proper electrical frequency, to allow the transformers inside to work properly thus giving the locos there various voltages. it prolly gets very complicated but I figured I would through it out there if anyone knows.

or does the power unit never speeds up or down, it just gets loaded harder and sounds like it is running faster???

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A BNSF fan by default.

OK, you asked for it!

Current [AC/DC] increases according to engine speed.

Engine speed is controlled through a governor, which ONLY maintains engine speed, according to throttle position.

Load [power demand] varies according to terrain, draw bar pull, track condition, and of course tonnage.

The current [amperage] whether AC or DC turns the wheels, which are gear-driven by the traction motor, which are receiving AC or DC current. The current varies with load [see above], and who really gives a $hit how the current comes out? It's either AC [alternating current] or DC direct current]!

Hope this helps! LOL

Could not have said it better my self

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Milwaukee Road Matt

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A BNSF fan by default.

It has something to do with the end specs on the rotary girder. Of course, if the pistolators are shot, well...

And dont forget if the number 7 spring is not in the correct position while the diverter shaft is spinning at max RPM on a rainy day under a full moon, you should just tie it down and forget about it you aint going anywhere

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Milwaukee Road Matt

Lights radio etc.. run of the aux generator not the main or alternator.

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Will
CP Superior, WI