44 Tonner Diesel Locomitve

Prototype Information

General Electric produced the 44-ton switcher between 1940 and 1956. This center-cab locomotive became famous for its weight, which was exactly 88,000 pounds. This specific weight allowed railroads to bypass the 90,000 Pound Rule. That labor agreement required a two-person crew for any locomotive weighing 45 tons or more. By staying just under that limit, railroads could operate the 44-tonner with only a single engineer, significantly reducing labor costs.

Most units featured two Caterpillar D17000 V8 engines, providing a total of 380 to 400 horsepower. Unlike similar industrial switchers that used chains or side rods, the GE 44-tonner used four traction motors. This design allowed it to reach speeds of 35 mph and handle tight industrial curves easily. GE built 386 units for various owners, including Class I railroads like the Pennsylvania and Boston & Maine, as well as several branches of the U.S. Military.