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Moderator: Kurt-Trirail

 #1605678  by NaugyRR
 
The Q classification refers to the unit being upgraded with Wabtec Q-Tron controls and electronics.

From the old Q-Tron site...
About Q-Tron

Q-Tron is a recognized leader in the design and manufacture of aftermarket replacement control systems for locomotives. Our expertise and experience are unmatched in the industry. Since 1990, over 1,200 Q-Tron locomotive control systems and over 1,500 engine management systems have been installed on locomotives operating throughout North America, South America, and Australia.

Q-Tron resources include:

Engineering (systems integration, R&D;, CAD)
Circuit board assembly
Circuit board and system testing
Temperature testing
Machining
Injection molding

Q-Tron was established in 1974 by former railroad employees who saw a need for an electronic manufacturer in the rail industry. In 1999. Q-Tron was purchased by MotivePower Industries and became part of the Wabtec group of companies when MotivePower Industries merged with Westinghouse Air Brake Company.

As part of the Wabtec group of companies, Q-Tron has a broad customer support and service network worldwide for all of our product lines.
Seeing as the units were rebuilt from old MARC Dash 2 units, they probably needed some serious upgrades to bring them up to modern standards.