We present an analysis of the single-sided linear induction motor with a solid-steel reaction plate. By solving for the two-dimensional field distribution in the airgap and in the secondary, the mutual reactance and secondary impedance are determined. The saturable characteristics of the rail steel, together with the hysteresis, the skin effect, the reaction of eddy currents, and both transverse edge and longitudinal end effects are included. Computations for motoring and for plugging operation under constant-current conditions are compared with experimental results from a large-scale test linear machine, and good agreement is obtained. The analysis, which can also be used for constant-voltage excitation, is valid over a wide range of operating conditions, and is useful for design studies.