GP38-2 Diesel Locomotive

Prototype Information

The EMD GP38-2 is a four-axle diesel-electric locomotive built by Electro-Motive Division (EMD) of General Motors between 1972 and 1986. It is part of EMD’s Dash 2 line, which featured upgraded electronics and improved reliability over earlier models. The GP38-2 is a successor to the original GP38, using the same 2,000-horsepower 16-cylinder 645E engine but with updated systems.

It was designed for versatility and could be used in road freight or switching service. The locomotive has a non-turbocharged engine, which made it more fuel-efficient and easier to maintain than higher-horsepower turbocharged models. Railroads across North America purchased the GP38-2 in large numbers, including major carriers like Union Pacific, Norfolk Southern, and CSX.

Over 2,200 units were built, making it one of the most successful locomotives in EMD’s history. Many GP38-2s are still in service today, often rebuilt or upgraded, due to their rugged design and reliability.