The Lionel Santa Fe Alco FA No. 220 was released according to the Lionel Service Manual in 1959, but the catalogs show 1961 as the initial release date. This diesel would be available for one additional year. The powered engine was equipped with a three position directional unit whose control lever was adjustable from the top of the body, Magnetraction on two driving axles, and a light. Metal rear coupler on the power unit, but all other couplers are solid plastic.

The powered A Unit of this diesel is sometimes found with a B Unit instead of a dummy A Unit. It was pictured in this fashion in the 1961 catalog. However, it has not been found this way in any boxed set. It is possible that is was issued in this combination in an uncataloged set issued in either 1959 or 1960. There are two variations: Variation A: With small pilot ledges on both A units. Variation B: With large pilot ledges on both A units.

All of the Lionel Alcos are designed to work on the O27 Gauge track, but they will run on the larger radius of O Gauge track as well.