Why high-hood units? - Trains Magazine

well the engine does not have a preference but the controls are generally set up for one end or the other being deemed the front (some have or had dual controls) so railroads made a choice, ordered their engines accordingly.
I remember seeing a train come into Milwaukee's Butler Yard down from Sheboygan WI (maybe 2 hour trip) with one of these huge new GEs running backwards. I took my picture and then waved at the engineer who just grinned and shook his head.
I imagine his neck and shoulders took a while to recover
Dave Nelson