This is straight out of the MoW operations handbook.
Purpose: Spreading fill, widening embankments, creating and cleaning ditches, leveling sub-grade, spreading fouled ballast, flood cleanup, plowing blown and drifted sand, and clearing snow drifts.
Description: The Jordan Ditcher is a machine designed for performing many various operations with the assistance of a locomotive.
Although the Jordan ditcher is equipped with a diesel engine, the power from the engine is used solely to drive hydraulic pumps. The hydraulic pumps are used to supply hydraulic oil necessary for operating the wings and plows.
Operation of the Jordan Ditcher is accomplished using two operators. Each side of the ditcher consists of wings and plows which are operated (raised and lowered) independently, one by each operator.
Yes there are different models so they look and operate a little differently. But there you go all the info and more you could want on the beast.