Southern Pacific Patch Set for ex-DRGW Krauss-Maffei ML-4000 Locomotives (PIKO)

This decal set lets you re-letter your Rio Grande Krauss-Maffei ML-4000 units in their interim SP paint scheme after they were acquired from the DRGW. This set includes everything you need to re-letter all three units, SP 9021-9023. The Yellow patches are indexed off RAL Signal Yellow, a close approximation to the color used by SP on freight cars, and will provide a nice intentional contrast against the DRGW Aspen Gold paint.

Some history: In February of 1964, Southern Pacific arranged to purchase the three Krauss-Maffei ML4000 "Prototype" diesel-hydraulic road locomotives from their investment partner in the experiment, Denver & Rio Grande Western. The units were quickly re-lettered for SP in black by Shops forces, with paint patches covering the DRGW road names, initials, and numbers.

• DRGW 4001 became SP 9021, but a failed truck crossjoint and fire caused the unit to be sidelined early and to be rebuilt by SP.
• DRGW 4002 became SP 9022. It was the most reliable, and thus became the most-photographed while in Patch Black Lettering.
• DRGW 4003 became SP 9023. It was repainted early in 1964 in SP Scarlet & Gray, as were the other two patched units. 

The units were renumbered to 9103-9105 in 1965-66, and all three were retired by 1967.

Additional modifications had been made by DRGW including roof-mounted air reservoirs, aftercooler piping, and MU socket deletions. Comprehensive information is available in the SPH&TS publication Southern Pacific & The KM Hydraulics, Second Edition, ©2024

APPLICATION:

• NOTE 1: When applying the nose number decal, first make a slit the notches of the patch color for grab iron clearance.
• NOTE 2: If desired, the raised KM builder's plate detail on the nose door can be shaved flush before applying the "SP" decal.