ALCO High Hood Models

    In 1929 the McIntosh & Seymour Diesel Engine Company, Auburn, NY, founded in 1885, was purchased by ALCO. In 1931 ALCO introduced new McIntosh & Seymour powered demonstration units #300 & #301 (300hp) and #600 (600hp). ALCO 1932 AD
    NH 0900
    Demo unit #600, build number 68539,
    class, 404-OE-200 went to New Haven as #0900.
    This unit has been referred to as model "0900".

    Production of 600hp units began in 1932, in 1934 the car body was refined by Otto Kuhler. The resulting "High Hood" body style lead to the commonly used model designation, HH. In 1937 the 531 engine was turbo charged to increase horsepower, the HH900. Application of the 539 engine resulted in the 660hp HH660 and the 1000hp HH1000 models.

    Changes in the car body configuration, (steps, louvers etc.) did not correspond with the switch to the 539 engines in 1939. In 1938 staircase steps replaced ladder steps then engine hood louvers replaced flaps. The result is that later HH600 and HH900 models look the same as HH660 and HH1000 models.

    Model Engine Years Built Production
    HH600 531 6 cyl 600hp 1932-1939 78
    HH900 531 6 cyl turbo 900hp 1937-1939 21
    HH660 539 6 cyl 660hp 1939-1940 43
    HH1000 539 6 cyl turbo 1000hp 1939-1940 34


  • High Hood Model Roster

  • High Hood Model Photos


    top of page Alco chapter table of contents Yard Limit Home