GE "B36-7" Locomotives: Specs, Roster, History
Last revised: January 1, 2025
By: Adam Burns
The B36-7 was General Electric's most powerful four-axle "Dash 7" model. It, along with the earlier B30-7, was designed for high-speed freight service over relatively level grades where high tractive effort was unnecessary.
By the time the model was cataloged, railroads had largely lost interest in such designs, citing increased maintenance costs associated with high horsepower designs.
Interestingly, General Electric continued to offer four-axle designs as late as 1990 with its B40-8W, part of its later "Dash 8" series.
The B36-7 was the final four-axle model to feature the Universal series, boxy carbody with a short nose and light beveling.
The later "Dash 8" series featured sharper lines and angles, a higher short nose, a more pronounced sharp "winged" radiator, and the first variants of General Electric's "wide cabs."
While the B36-7 had the fewest sales of the "Dash 7" line, ex-Seaboard units remained in use on CSX until late 2009. Today, all "Dash 7s" have been retired from Class I rosters.
Photos
It's the early CSX era as a former Seaboard System B36-7, #5866, leads an eastbound autorack train into Brunswick Yard at Brunswick, Maryland on August 11, 1988. Wade Massie photo.Overview
As Greg McDonnell notes in his book, "Locomotives: The Modern Diesel & Electric Reference, 2nd Edition," the B36-7 was a direct successor to the earlier B30-7.
And typical of GE practice, it was not given much fanfare. The first units were actually a group of upgraded B30-7's, St. Louis Southwestern Railway (Cotton Belt) #7770-7773, which rolled out of Erie in January of 1980.
These units were actually part of a larger batch of B30-7s Southern Pacific's subsidiary had ordered that year numbered 7774-7799.
They came equipped with a number of new GE gadgets including the builder's latest traction motors (752AF), GTA24 alternators, and the Sentry adhesion-control system.
The Southern Pacific was pleased with these testbed examples and the new model entered GE's catalog. The first buyer was the Santa Fe, which picked up 16 examples in October and November, 1980.
Reception
The B36-7 did not enjoy strong sales, outshopping roughly half as many units as the earlier B30-7. In fact, the Seaboard System, alone, accounted for over half of all orders, acquiring 120 examples.
While both GE and EMD continued offering high horsepower, four axle models into the mid-1980s, most of the industry had given up on the design by that time.
Their lower tractive efforts made them undesirable in drag service and their six-motored counterparts could still handle freights at relatively high speeds when needed.
CSX B36-7 #5912 has westbound freight Q249 on the Pittsburgh Subdivision as it passes beneath the Pittsburgh Sub, passing the Corliss signal bridge at Corliss, Pennsylvania (Pittsburgh) on June 8, 1997. Wade Massie photo.From the railroads' standpoint, four-axle models lacked redundancy in addition to featuring higher maintenance costs typical of high horsepower locomotives.
The introduction of the "Dash 7" line brought with it new designations and meanings. In regards to the B36-7:
- "B" referred to a four-axle (B-B) locomotive.
- "36" designated the horsepower rating of 3,600.
- "7" indicated that the "Dash 7" line was introduced in 1977.
As always, the model came equipped with GE's 4-cycle model 7FDL16 prime mover utilizing the company's very reliable, and latest, 752AF traction motors. The locomotive could produce 70,000 pounds of starting effort and 63,250 pounds of continuous effort at 10.7 mph.
By the 1980s GE had a steady following by some, such as Conrail and Seaboard, the latter of which purchased the most. Additionally, the Cerrejon Coal Project of Columbia acquired eight units. In all, General Electric sold some 230 examples by the time production was ended in September, 1985.
Data Sheet and Specifications
| Entered Production | 1/1980 (St. Louis Southwestern #7770-7773) |
| Years Produced | 1/1980 - 9/1985 |
| GE Class | B36-7 |
| Engine | 7FDL16 (16 cylinder) |
| Engine Builder | General Electric |
| Horsepower | 3600 |
| RPM | 1050 |
| Length | 62' 2" |
| Height (Top Of Rail To Top Of Cab) | 15' 4 1/2" |
| Width | 9' 11" |
| Weight | 259,000 - 280,000 Lbs |
| Fuel Capacity | 2,150 Gallons |
| Air Compressor | 3CDC (Westinghouse) |
| Air Brake Schedule | 26NL (Westinghouse) |
| Trucks | B-B |
| Truck Type | Floating Bolster FB2 (GE) |
| Truck Wheelbase | 9' 0" |
| Wheel Size | 40" |
| Traction Motors | 752AF (4), GE |
| Traction Alternator | GTA24AC, GE |
| Auxiliary Generator | GY27, GE |
| MU (Multiple-Unit) | Yes |
| Dynamic Brakes | Yes |
| Gear Ratio | 83:20 |
| Tractive Effort/Starting | 70,000 Lbs |
| Tractive Effort/Continuous | 63,250 Lbs at 10.7 mph |
| Top Speed | 70 mph |
Production Roster
(Total Built = 230)
| Owner | Road Number | Serial Number | Order Number | Completion Date | Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| St. Louis Southwestern Railway (Southern Pacific) | 7770-7773 | 42784-42787 | 1441 | 1/1980 | 4 |
| Santa Fe | 7484-7499 | 43130-43145 | 1447 | 10/1980-11/1980 | 16 |
| Southern Railway | 3815-3820 | 43156-43161 | 1431 | 3/1981 | 6 |
| Exxon - Columbia | 1001-1004 | 43294-43297 | 1441 | 8/1983 | 4 |
| Exxon - Columbia | 1005-1008 | 43787-43790 | 1402 | 9/1984 | 4 |
| Southern Pacific | 7754-7769 | 43791-43806 | 1403 | 11/1984-12/1984 | 16 |
| Conrail | 5000-5048 | 44251-44299 | 1443 | 12/1983 | 49 |
| Conrail | 5049-5059 | 44400-44410 | 1443 | 12/1983 | 11 |
| Seaboard System | 5806-5880 | 44809-44883 | 1405 | 2/1985-6/1985 | 75 |
| Seaboard System | 5881-5925 | 44970-45014 | 1406 | 7/1985-9/1985 | 45 |
Sources
- Foster, Gerald. A Field Guide To Trains. New York: Houghton Mifflin, 1996.
- Marre, Louis A. and Pinkepank, Jerry A. Contemporary Diesel Spotter's Guide, The: A Comprehensive Reference Manual To Locomotives Since 1972. Milwaukee: Kalmbach Publishing Company, 1989.
- McDonnell, Greg. Locomotives: The Modern Diesel & Electric Reference, 2nd Edition. Buffalo: Boston Mills Press/Firefly Books, 2015.
- Solomon, Brian. American Diesel Locomotive, The. Osceola: MBI Publishing, 2000.
- Solomon, Brian. GE and EMD Locomotives: The Illustrated History. Minneapolis: Voyageur Press, 2014.
- Solomon, Brian. GE Locomotives: 110 Years Of General Electric Motive Power. St. Paul: MBI Publishing, 2003.
Conrail B36-7 #5059 leads a westbound local back to Conway Yard at Emsworth, Pennsylvania on April 20, 1997. Wade Massie photo.Retirement
Despite sales being slow some B36-7's soldiered on in active revenue service for many years with the final units being retired from CSX in the late fall of 2009.
Earlier, Conrail's original fleet of B36-7s were put out to pasture between 2000 and 2001. For GE and EMD, realized by the 1980s that interest in four-axle, high-horsepower locomotives had all but evaporated.
It did catalog the B32-8/W, B36-8, B39-8, and B40-8/W in the mid/late-1980s but, in total, these models sold a combined 400+ examples.
Not even Electro-Motive could sway railroads to acquire its final four-axle models; the GP50, GP59, and GP60 sold slightly better at a little over 700 examples.
Recent Articles
-
U.S. Rail Traffic Shows Continued Strength in Week 27 Of 2026
Jul 16, 26 11:52 AM
The Association of American Railroads (AAR) released its weekly rail traffic report on July 15, 2026, covering data for the week ending July 11, 2026 (Week 27). -
DL&W's Tavern-Lounge Observation Cars
Jul 15, 26 10:06 PM
The tavern-lounge-observation cars on the Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad’s (DL&W) Phoebe Snow were signature tail-end cars (numbered 789 and 790), not built by Pullman but by the Budd Company… -
B&O Railroad Museum Rebrands
Jul 15, 26 03:23 PM
The historic B&O Railroad Museum, long celebrated as a cornerstone of American railroad heritage, announced on July 14, 2026, that it is changing its name to the National Museum of Railroad History… -
Amtrak’s Empire Builder – Complete Scenic Route Guide 2026
Jul 15, 26 12:56 PM
Complete 2026 guide to Amtrak’s Empire Builder. Route overview, best scenic sections, schedules, what to expect, and tips for riding this iconic long-distance train through the northern United States. -
Washington ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 15, 26 11:39 AM
Here’s a detailed look at where and how to ride, what to expect, and practical tips to make the most of wine tasting by rail in Washington. -
Kentucky ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 15, 26 11:37 AM
Kentucky, often celebrated for its rolling pastures, thoroughbred horses, and bourbon legacy, has been cultivating another gem in its storied landscapes; enjoying wine by rail. -
Best THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Rides Across the United States 2026
Jul 15, 26 11:04 AM
Discover the best THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Rides in the US for 2026. Top locations, what to expect, dates, and tips for this magical holiday experience based on the beloved story. -
Indiana ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 15, 26 09:20 AM
This piece explores the allure of murder mystery trains and why they are becoming a must-try experience for enthusiasts and casual travelers alike. -
Ohio ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 15, 26 09:14 AM
The murder mystery dinner train rides in Ohio provide an immersive experience that combines fine dining, an engaging narrative, and the beauty of Ohio's landscapes. -
Arizona ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 15, 26 09:06 AM
Let's delve into the captivating world of Arizona's Wild West train adventures, currently offered at the popular Grand Canyon Railway. -
Michigan ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 15, 26 08:49 AM
While the term 'wild west' often conjures up images of dusty plains and expansive deserts, Michigan offers its own unique take on this thrilling period of history. -
Amtrak’s Coast Starlight – Complete Scenic Route Guide 2026
Jul 14, 26 02:24 PM
Complete 2026 guide to Amtrak’s Coast Starlight. Route highlights, best scenic sections, schedules, what to expect, and tips for riding one of America’s most beautiful long-distance trains. -
Best Steam-Powered Scenic Train Rides in the Eastern U.S. 2026
Jul 14, 26 01:21 PM
Discover the best steam-powered scenic train rides in the Eastern U.S. for 2026. From Cass Scenic Railroad Shays to Strasburg and other heritage steam operations — schedules, highlights, and tips. -
Indiana - Beer Tasting - Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 12:34 PM
On select dates, the French Lick Scenic Railway adds a social twist with its popular Beer Tasting Train—a 21+ evening built around craft pours, rail ambience, and views you can’t get from the highway. -
Wisconsin ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 12:10 PM
Through a unique blend of interactive entertainment and historical reverence, Wisconsin offers a captivating glimpse into the past with its Wild West train rides. -
Georgia ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 11:46 AM
Nestled within its lush hills and historic towns, the Peach State offers unforgettable train rides that channel the spirit of the Wild West. -
Florida ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 11:34 AM
Wine by train not only showcases the beauty of Florida's lesser-known regions but also celebrate the growing importance of local wineries and vineyards. -
Texas ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 10:05 AM
This article invites you on a metaphorical journey through some of these unique wine tasting train experiences in Texas. -
New Mexico ~ Wine Tasting ~Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 09:26 AM
For oenophiles and adventure seekers alike, wine tasting train rides in New Mexico provide a unique opportunity to explore the region's vineyards in comfort and style. -
Tennessee ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 09:10 AM
Amidst the rolling hills and scenic landscapes of Tennessee, an exhilarating and interactive experience awaits those with a taste for mystery and intrigue. -
California ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 14, 26 09:01 AM
When it comes to experiencing the allure of crime-solving sprinkled with delicious dining, California's murder mystery dinner train rides have carved a niche for themselves among both locals and touri… -
North Carolina ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 13, 26 01:49 PM
North Carolina, a state known for its diverse landscapes ranging from serene beaches to majestic mountains, offers a unique blend of history and adventure through its Wild West train rides. -
Pennsylvania ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 13, 26 01:45 PM
The Keystone State is home to a variety of historical attractions, but few experiences can rival the excitement and nostalgia of a Wild West train ride. -
New York ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 13, 26 01:40 PM
This article will delve into the history, offerings, and appeal of wine tasting trains in New York, guiding you through a unique experience that combines the romance of the rails with the sophisticati… -
Michigan ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 13, 26 01:35 PM
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Michigan’s wine tasting train experiences that cater to both wine connoisseurs and railway aficionados. -
Illinois ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 13, 26 01:32 PM
Among Illinois's scenic train rides, one of the most unique and captivating experiences is the murder mystery excursion. -
Vermont ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 13, 26 01:28 PM
There are currently murder mystery dinner trains offered in Vermont but until recently the Champlain Valley Dinner Train offered such a trip! -
The Flying Scotsman’s American Adventure: LNER 4472’s U.S. Tour
Jul 13, 26 12:02 PM
In the fall of 1969, a gleaming British steam locomotive unlike anything most Americans had ever seen rolled into Boston and spent the next four years touring the U.S. -
Amtrak's California Zephyr – Complete Scenic Route Guide 2026
Jul 12, 26 01:04 PM
Explore Amtrak’s California Zephyr, one of America’s most scenic long-distance train routes. Complete 2026 guide with highlights, best times to ride, what to expect, photography tips, and fall foliage… -
Alabama ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 12, 26 12:25 PM
Although Alabama isn't the traditional setting for Wild West tales, the state provides its own flavor of historic rail adventures that draw enthusiasts year-round. -
Indiana ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 12, 26 12:22 PM
In this article, we'll delve into the experience of wine tasting trains in Indiana, exploring their routes, services, and the rising popularity of this unique adventure. -
South Dakota ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 12, 26 12:04 PM
For wine enthusiasts and adventurers alike, South Dakota introduces a novel way to experience its local viticulture: wine tasting aboard the Black Hills Central Railroad. -
New Mexico ~ Murder Mystery ~ Train Rides
Jul 12, 26 11:41 AM
Among Sky Railway's most theatrical offerings is “A Murder Mystery,” a 2–2.5 hour immersive production that drops passengers into a stylized whodunit on the rails. -
Michigan ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 12, 26 11:36 AM
Among the lesser-known treasures of this state are the intriguing murder mystery dinner train rides—a perfect blend of suspense, dining, and scenic exploration. -
Best Christmas and Holiday Train Rides in the Eastern U.S. 2026
Jul 12, 26 11:05 AM
Discover the best Christmas and holiday train rides in the Eastern U.S. for 2026, including Polar Express experiences, Santa trains, and festive scenic journeys. Plan your magical rail adventure this… -
New York ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 12, 26 09:53 AM
Join us as we explore wild west train rides in New York, bringing history to life and offering a memorable escape to another era. -
Ohio ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 12, 26 09:38 AM
For those enamored with tales of the Old West, Ohio's railroad experiences offer a unique blend of history, adventure, and natural beauty. -
Western Pacific's 4-6-6-4 "Challengers" (M-100)
Jul 11, 26 11:29 PM
In the late 1930s, the Western Pacific stood at a crossroads. Traffic volumes were recovering from the Great Depression, and the railroad needed more powerful, faster locomotives to move longer freigh… -
Cass Scenic Railroad Fall Foliage Trips 2026 – Complete Guide
Jul 11, 26 04:28 PM
Plan your 2026 fall foliage trip on the Cass Scenic Railroad. Complete guide to the Bald Knob route, schedules, what to expect, photography tips, and why this West Virginia steam train ride is one of… -
Best Fall Foliage Scenic Train Rides in the Eastern United States 2026
Jul 11, 26 03:16 PM
Discover the best fall foliage train rides in the Eastern U.S. for 2026. From steam-powered mountain climbs in West Virginia to scenic heritage railroads across the Appalachians and beyond — plan your… -
Missouri ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 11, 26 11:27 AM
In Missouri, a state rich in history and natural beauty, you can experience the thrill of a bygone era through the scenic and immersive Wild West train rides. -
Indiana ~ Wild West ~ Train Rides
Jul 11, 26 11:17 AM
Indiana offers a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of the Wild West through its captivating train rides. -
North Carolina ~ Whiskey Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 11, 26 11:05 AM
One of the GSMR's most distinctive special events is Spirits on the Rail, a bourbon-focused dining experience built around curated drinks and a chef-prepared multi-course meal. -
West Virginia ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 11, 26 10:45 AM
West Virginia, often celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and rich history, offers visitors a unique way to explore its rolling hills and picturesque vineyards: wine tasting trains. -
Utah ~ Wine Tasting ~ Train Rides
Jul 11, 26 10:42 AM
Utah, a state widely celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty and dramatic landscapes, is also gaining recognition for an unexpected yet delightful experience: wine tasting trains. -
Virginia ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 11, 26 10:12 AM
Among the state's railroad attractions, murder mystery dinner trains stand out as a captivating fusion of theatrical entertainment, fine dining, and scenic travel. -
Maryland ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 11, 26 10:02 AM
Maryland is known for its scenic landscapes, historical landmarks, and vibrant culture, but did you know that it’s also home to some of the most thrilling murder mystery dinner trains? -
U.S. Rail Traffic Surges 8.7% in Holiday Week Ending July 4, 2026
Jul 10, 26 03:39 PM
Despite the Independence Day holiday (which fell on a Saturday), U.S. freight railroads delivered an impressive performance, posting an 8.7% year-over-year increase in total traffic -
APSL Nears Acquisition Of B&O Depot In Paw Paw, WV
Jul 10, 26 11:44 AM
After decades of quiet abandonment, a dedicated preservation effort by the Allegany Preservation Society Limited (APSL) is racing to secure its future— having already raised approximately 90 percent o… -
Minnesota ~ Murder Mystery ~ Dinner Train Rides
Jul 10, 26 10:05 AM
Murder mystery dinner trains offer an enticing blend of suspense, culinary delight, and perpetual motion, where passengers become both detectives and dining companions on an unforgettable journey.
%20on%20June%208%2C%201997.%20%20Wade%20Massie%20photo.){kind=link}
