Copper Thoughts #1: ATSF F59PH
Looking at the visible outward features of EMD's venerable F59PH run by Metrolink and (formerly) GO Transit, I've always liked the front-end walkway they possessed. It was different, as most passenger locos lacked such a feature. That made me remember ATSF's requests for cowl units from GE and EMD in the mid-1960s, resulting in the U30CH and FP45, respectively. A front-end walkway was one of the more specific requests Santa Fe made to both manufacturers. The F59PH conforms to Santa Fe's requirements for new passenger locomotives. Cowl and front-end walkway. So, in conclusion, had private railroads continued with passenger services into the modern era, I believe Santa Fe would've very likely purchased a good number of F59PH's for use on secondary passenger trains. Just imagine it. F59PH's wearing ATSF's famous warbonnet livery, thundering along with strings of stainless steel cars making up a San Diegan or Kansas Cityan. It's a nice thought.