Metrolink Locomotives Head to Mexico for Refurbishment and New Service

Several retired Metrolink EMD F59PHI locomotives are currently en route to San Luis Potosi, Mexico, where they will undergo refurbishment at the San Luis Potosi locomotive works. This facility, known for its expertise in overhauling older engines, will restore the locomotives to operational condition before they are reintroduced into service.

The refurbished locomotives are expected to be deployed on the new Interoceanic Corridor rail line in southern Mexico, specifically on the Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz to Palenque, Chiapas line. However, there is speculation that the Mexican government might be acquiring these engines for future initiatives, as the current Interoceanic railway already has sufficient rolling stock to meet current passenger demand.

The locomotives are being transported via BNSF to Texas and then to Mexico on CPKC. This move is part of broader efforts to preserve and utilize vintage locomotives, with some observers noting that other proposed rail projects in Mexico might also benefit from these refurbished engines.

This development highlights the ongoing collaboration and resource sharing in the rail industry, where retired equipment from one region can be revitalized and put to use in another, contributing to the expansion and improvement of rail services.