GE "70-Tonner" Locomotives: Roster, Specs, Data Sheet
Last revised: January 2, 2025
By: Adam Burns
General Electric's 70-ton switcher is considered by many locomotive historians and enthusiasts as one of GE's masterpieces in terms of both engineering excellence and versatility.
Designed in the late 1940s, this compact locomotive swiftly became a valuable asset across a broad range of applications, its impact evident in the numerous industries it serviced over the subsequent four decades.
The model did not enjoy the 44-tonner's sales numbers but nevertheless sold more than 200 examples between 1946-1957. Today, several are preserved.
Photos
Belfast & Moosehead Lake 70-tonner #51 is seen here in Belfast, Maine on October 23, 1973. Photographer unknown. American-Rails.com collection.Background
In terms of design, the 70-tonner was constructed with a solid steel frame, meticulously engineered to cope with the heavy loads and turns often required in switching operations.
Unlike the earlier 44-tonner - intended for common-carrier service and specifically aimed to avoid the "90,000 Pound Rule" - the 70-tonner was design for light branch lines with restricted axle loadings where 100-120 ton conventional yard switchers could not roam.
It boasted an overall length of 37 feet, a width of 10 feet, and a height of 13 feet and 5 ½ inches, allowing the switcher to be nimble on tighter networks. With a fuel capacity of approximately 500 gallons and sporting GE's rugged model 748 traction motors, the switcher was a robust and enduring presence on the tracks.
The 70-tonners were equipped with a six-cylinder Cooper-Bessemer model FWL-6T prime mover, originally capable of 550 horsepower (later upgraded to 600 horsepower).
As Bob Hayden notes in his book, "Diesel Locomotives: Cyclopedia - Volume 2," this engine was the direct descendent of the sixteen-cylinder model 7FDL16 utilized in GE's first production road-switcher, the U25B.
For the time, the power plant showcased impressive torque and response, matched by its four-wheel, direct drive traction motors that ensured efficiency in power delivery.
From an operational perspective, the switcher demonstrated outstanding tractive effort due to its low axle load and high adhesion design. With a starting tractive effort of 41,700 lbs, it successfully catered to steep gradients and heavy loads without compromising performance.
The true value of the locomotive lay in its versatility. It was used primarily as a yard switcher in railroads across the United States and Canada, and in a variety of industries ranging from timber to mining, cement plants to steel mills.
Its reliability and resilient nature made it an ideal locomotive for these challenging environments and their demanding work schedules. However, as Jay Reed notes in his book, "Critters, Dinkys & Centercabs," in many ways the 70-tonner was GE's first locomotive designed for general road service as it was quite capable of short freight consists as well.
The switcher was produced mainly at the famous Erie, Pennsylvania manufacturing plant - over a period spanning 11 years a total of 239 units were built there for North American and Mexican customers.
For railfans and enthusiasts, the 70-tonner also offered a unique aesthetic presence. With its lean and compact body, front and back platforms, and distinctive livery options, it stood out from the often-crowded switchyards. It presented a simplified, purposeful design that was a departure from the larger and more complex locomotive designs of the era.
As the need for high-horsepower locomotives became increasingly prevalent in the 1970s, the prominence of the switcher slowly began to fade and production eventually ceased. Nonetheless, its lasting impact on the North American rail industry cannot be underestimated. This classic switcher has since found a new lease of life in museums and heritage railways across the continent.
Center Cabs
While the end cab 70-tonner is most widely known by enthusiasts, GE also produced a center-cab version, primarily between 1940-1942. These units sported a rather boxy appearance and lacked the beveled and rounded aesthetic touches the company would later apply to its switchers.
Reed notes the first unit built was powered by a Cummins HBIS engine capable of producing 400 horsepower. The next three examples utilized four Cummins HBI engines, paired side-by-side, and could produce 600 horsepower. The final seven units were equipped with two supercharged HBIS power plants and - once more - offered 400 horsepower.
Production Roster
| Owner | Road Number(s) | Quantity | Serial Number | Completion Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ahnapee & Western | 600, 601 | 2 | 31727, 31728 | 1/1953 |
| Albany & Northern | 70 | 1 | 28562 | 11/1946 |
| American Agriculture Chemical Company (Agrico) | 4 | 1 | 30018 | 11/1948 |
| American Agriculture Chemical Company (Agrico) | 5 | 1 | 31279 | 2/1952 |
| Arkansas & Ozarks | 800, 900 | 2 | 30380, 30381 | 11/1949, 1/1950 |
| Ashley, Drew & Northern | 170 | 1 | 30016 | 7/1948 |
| Ashley, Drew & Northern | 171, 172 | 2 | 30023, 30024 | 9/1948 |
| Atlantic & Western | 100 | 1 | 30452 | 9/1950 |
| Baltimore & Annapolis | 50 | 1 | 30437 | 1/1950 |
| Barre & Chelsea | 12 | 1 | 28514 | 1/1947 |
| Barre & Chelsea | 13, 14 | 2 | 29087, 29088 | 9/1947 |
| Barre & Chelsea | 15 | 1 | 29298 | 3/1948 |
| Belfast & Moosehead Lake | 50, 51 | 2 | 28567, 28568 | 12/1946 |
| Belfast & Moosehead Lake | 52 | 1 | 30846 | 5/1951 |
| Berlin Mills | 15, 16 | 2 | 30032, 30033 | 12/1948, 1/1949 |
| Calumet & Hecla | 210 | 1 | 28566 | 12/1946 |
| Carolina Southern | 201 | 1 | 30839 | 1/1951 |
| Central California Traction | 30 | 1 | 28512 | 1/1947 |
| Central California Traction | 31, 32 | 2 | 29082, 29083 | 8/1947 |
| Cherry River Boom & Lumber | 1, 2 | 2 | 32278, 32279 | 12/1954, 1/1955 |
| Cherry River Boom & Lumber | 3 | 1 | 32682 | 11/1956 |
| Collins Pine Company (Amador Railroad) | 166 | 1 | 32296 | 6/1955 |
| Condon Kinzua & Southern | 104 | 1 | 30845 | 3/1951 |
| Detroit Steel | 113 | 1 | 32680 | 10/1956 |
| East Erie Commercial | 17, 18 | 2 | 30445, 30450 | 9/1950 |
| East Erie Commercial | 19 | 1 | 30451 | 10/1950 |
| East St. Louis Junction | 70-72 | 3 | 29302-29304 | 3/1948 |
| East St. Louis Junction | 73 | 1 | 30029 | 2/1949 |
| Fibreboard Products | 2 | 1 | 30025 | 2/1948 |
| Fort Dodge, Des Moines & Southern | 401 | 1 | 32207 | 12/1953 |
| Fort Dodge, Des Moines & Southern | 402 | 1 | 32134 | 2/1954 |
| Fort Dodge, Des Moines & Southern | 403 | 1 | 32282 | 6/1955 |
| Fort Dodge, Des Moines & Southern | 404-406 | 3 | 32307, 32303, 32305 | 9/1955 |
| Frankfort & Cincinnati | 100 | 1 | 28507 | 12/1946 |
| Frankfort & Cincinnati | 101 | 1 | 28513 | 5/1947 |
| Frankfort & Cincinnati | 102 | 1 | 29086 | 7/1947 |
| Georgia Northern | 71 | 1 | 28565 | 12/1946 |
| Georgia State Port Authority (Savannah State Docks) | 102 | 1 | 31725 | 4/1953 |
| General Electric (Demo) | 1 | 1 | 30448 | 7/1950 |
| General Electric (Demo) | 7001 | 1 | 28238 | 10/1946 |
| Grafton & Upton | 12 | 1 | 30021 | 8/1948 |
| Greenville & Northern | 70 | 1 | 30020 | 8/1948 |
| Greenville & Northern | 75 | 1 | 31173 | 11/1951 |
| Hampton & Branchville | 70 | 1 | 30841 | 1951 |
| Helena & Northwestern | 70 | 1 | 30446 | 6/1950 |
| High Point, Thomasville & Denton | 201-203 | 3 | 29465-29467 | 1/1948 |
| Humble Oil & Refining Company | 998 | 1 | 32201 | 6/1954 |
| Inspiration Consolidated Copper | 19 | 1 | 31723 | 12/1952 |
| Inspiration Consolidated Copper | 20, 21 | 2 | 31164, 31165 | 9/1951 |
| Jamestown, Westfield & Northwestern | 600, 700 | 2 | 29084, 29085 | 9/1947 |
| Kansas City Connecting | 13 | 1 | 32262 | 10/1954 |
| Kelly's Creek Railroad | 500, 501 | 2 | 30182, 30183 | 7/1949 |
| Kelly's Creek & Northwestern | 5 | 1 | 30384 | 11/1949 |
| Kelly's Creek & Northwestern | 7 | 1 | 30388 | 4/1950 |
| Kennecott Copper Corporation | 61-66 | 6 | 30374-30379 | 10/1949 |
| Kingan & Company | 5 | 1 | 30180 | 7/1949 |
| Klamath Northern | 205 | 1 | 32304 | 6/1955 |
| Lakeside & Marblehead | 10, 11 | 2 | 30174, 30175 | 6/1949 |
| Lancaster & Chester | 60-62 | 3 | 30455, 30456, 30458 | 10/1950 |
| Laurinburg & Southern | 101 | 1 | 29089 | 9/1947 |
| Laurinburg & Southern | 103 | 1 | 30837 | 1/1951 |
| Lehigh Portland Cement (Alsen, New York plant) | 1 | 1 | 32420 | 11/1955 |
| Lehigh Portland Cement (Security, Maryland plant) | 1 | 1 | 32507 | 3/1956 |
| Lehigh Portland Cement (Metaline Falls, Washington plant) | 1 | 1 | 32679 | 12/1956 |
| Live Oak Perry & Gulf | 300, 301 | 2 | 28563, 28564 | 11/1946 |
| Louisville & Nashville | 125 | 1 | 30017 | 7/1948 |
| Louisville & Nashville | 126 | 1 | 30385 | 11/1949 |
| Marianna & Blountstown | 75 | 1 | 29090 | 9/1947 |
| McCloud River Lumber | 1 | 1 | 32302 | 8/1955 |
| Meadow River Lumber | 8, 9 | 2 | 32815, 32816 | 1/1957 |
| Mississippi & Skuna Valley | 3 | 1 | 30840 | 1/51 |
| Mississippi Export | 46 | 1 | 28509 | 12/1946 |
| Mississippi Export | 48 | 1 | 31168 | 10/1951 |
| Mississippi Export | 50 | 1 | 31724 | 2/1953 |
| Missouri-Kansas-Texas (Katy) | 1651 | 1 | 30030 | 1/1949 |
| Missouri-Kansas-Texas (Katy) | 1652-1654 | 3 | 30434-30436 | 2/1950 |
| Modesto & Empire Traction | 600 | 1 | 29093 | 10/1947 |
| Modesto & Empire Traction | 601 | 1 | 30031 | 2/1949 |
| Modesto & Empire Traction | 602 | 1 | 31278 | 2/1952 |
| Muncie & Western | 8 | 1 | 28505 | 12/1946 |
| Norfolk Southern | 701-703 | 3 | 30013-30015 | 6/1948 |
| North Louisiana & Gulf | 101, 102 | 2 | 30382, 30390 | 1/1950 |
| North Louisiana & Gulf | 103 | 1 | 30457 | 9/1950 |
| North Louisiana & Gulf | 104 | 1 | 32131 | 1/1954 |
| Norwood & St. Lawrence | 10, 11 | 2 | 32567, 32568 | 4/1956 |
| Oliver Iron Mining | 1003 | 1 | 30383 | 11/1949 |
| Oliver Iron Mining | 1004, 1005 | 2 | 30438, 30439 | 3/1950 |
| Okmulgee Northern | 7 | 1 | 30453 | 8/1950 |
| Oregon Pacific & Eastern | 10 | 1 | 31284 | 3/1952 |
| Pecos Valley Southern | 7 | 1 | 30181 | 7/1949 |
| Pecos Valley Southern | 8 | 1 | 31729 | 1/1953 |
| Pere Marquette | 20-22 | 3 | 28506, 28508, 28510 | 12/1946 |
| Prescott & Northwestern | 23 | 1 | 32200 | 6/1954 |
| Rahway Valley | 16 | 1 | 30838 | 1/1951 |
| Rahway Valley | 17 | 1 | 32130 | 1/1954 |
| Rutland | 500 | 1 | 31175 | 12/1951 |
| Sacramento Northern | 201 | 1 | 32297 | 6/1955 |
| Sacramento Northern | 202 | 1 | 32595 | 7/1956 |
| St. Johnsbury & Lamoille County | 46-48 | 3 | 29297-29299 | 3/1948 |
| St. Johnsbury & Lamoille County | 49 | 1 | 30022 | 7/1948 |
| St. Johnsbury & Lamoille County | 50 | 1 | 30184 | 8/1949 |
| St. Johnsbury & Lamoille County | 51 | 1 | 30844 | 2/1951 |
| Sanford & Eastern | 9 | 1 | 30185 | 7/1949 |
| San Luis Central | 71 | 1 | 32280 | 1/55 |
| Santa Maria Valley | 10 | 1 | 30019 | 7/1948 |
| Santa Maria Valley | 20 | 1 | 30176 | 7/1949 |
| Santa Maria Valley | 30 | 1 | 30447 | 8/1950 |
| Santa Maria Valley | 40, 50 | 2 | 31282, 31283 | 3/1952 |
| Saratoga & Schuylerville | 11 | 1 | 28239 | 10/1946 |
| Sioux City Terminal | 1, 2 | 2 | 31169, 31170 | 10/1951 |
| Sioux City Terminal | 3 | 1 | 32510 | 3/1956 |
| South Georgia | 202 | 1 | 28569 | 12/1946 |
| Southern Pacific | 5100-5102 | 3 | 30034-30036 | 3/1949-4/1949 |
| Southern Pacific | 5103-5107 | 5 | 30166-30170 | 5/1949 |
| Southern Pacific | 5108, 5109 | 2 | 30171, 30172 | 6/1949 |
| Southern Pacific | 5110-5113 | 4 | 30430-30433 | 2/1950-3/1950 |
| Southern Pacific | 5115 | 1 | 30842 | 2/1951 |
| Southern Pacific | 5116-5118 | 3 | 31161-31163 | 9/1951 |
| Southern Pacific | 5119 | 1 | 32284 | 5/1955 |
| Southern Pacific | 5120 | 1 | 32421 | 12/1955 |
| Southwestern Portland Cement | 5 | 1 | 28511 | 2/1947 |
| Southwestern Portland Cement | 6 | 1 | 29469 | 3/1948 |
| Tallulah Falls | 501, 502 | 2 | 29475, 29476 | 3/1948 |
| Texas South-Eastern | 22 | 1 | 32569 | 5/1956 |
| Tidewater Southern | 141, 142 | 2 | 29468, 29470 | 1/1948 |
| Tidewater Southern | 143 | 1 | 31726 | 6/1953 |
| Timken Roller Bearing | 1450 | 1 | 30028 | 1/1947 |
| Timken Roller Bearing | 6319 | 1 | 30459 | 12/1950 |
| Unadilla Valley | 100, 200 | 2 | 29091, 29092 | 10/1947 |
| U.S. Gypsum | 501 | 1 | 32204 | 7/1954 |
| U.S. Potash (A1A-A1A Trucks, 36" Gauge) | 4 | 1 | 29296 | 3/1948 |
| U.S. Potash (A1A-A1A Trucks, 36" Gauge) | 5 | 1 | 30874 | 7/1952 |
| U.S. Potash (A1A-A1A Trucks, 36" Gauge) | 6 | 1 | 32573 | 5/1956 |
| Valdosta Southern | 655 | 1 | 32299 | 6/1955 |
| Valley & Siletz | 5, 7 | 2 | 32132, 32133 | 2/1954 |
| Valley & Siletz | 11 | 1 | 32283 | 3/1955 |
| Ventura County | 1 | 1 | 30027 | 12/1948 |
| Washington & Old Dominion | 56 | 1 | 31174 | 11/1951 |
| Washington & Old Dominion | 57 | 1 | 32509 | 3/1956 |
| Winchester & Western | 1952 | 1 | 31166 | 10/1951 |
| Winifrede | 11 | 1 | 32681 | 1/1957 |
Center Cab
| Owner | Road Number(s) | Quantity | Serial Number | Completion Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carnegie-Illinois Steel (Gary Works) | 32-35 | 4 | 15673-15676 | 9/1942 |
| New York Central | 506 | 1 | 12592 | 7/1940 |
| New York Central | 507-513 | 7 | 15168-15174 | 10/1942-12/1942 |
| Steelton & Highspire | 30 | 1 | 13199 | 11/1941 |
| Steelton & Highspire | 35, 36 | 2 | 15017, 15018 | 10/1941 |
| U. S. Steel - Duquesne Works (36" Gauge) | 11 | 1 | 31052 | 1/1953 |
Canada
| Owner | Road Number(s) | Quantity | Serial Number | Completion Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| British Columbia Electric Railway | 940-942 | 3 | 30371-30373 | 9/1949 |
| British Columbia Electric Railway | 943 | 1 | 30386 | 5/1950 |
| Canadian National | 7802-7819 | 18 | 30608-30625 | 3/1950-5/1950 |
| Grand Falls Central (42" Gauge) | 101-103 | 3 | 33257-33259 | 1/1958 |
| Hudson Bay Mining & Smelting | 1 | 1 | 32596 | 6/1956 |
| Pacific Great Eastern | 552, 553 | 2 | 30037, 30038 | 3/1949 |
| Pacific Great Eastern | 554, 555 | 2 | 30177, 30178 | 6/1949 |
| Pacific Great Eastern | 556, 557 | 2 | 30440, 30441 | 2/1950 |
| Quebec, North Shore & Labrador | 91 | 1 | 31171 | 10/1951 |
| Quebec, North Shore & Labrador | 92 | 1 | 31276 | 2/1952 |
| Spruce Falls Power & Paper | 106 | 1 | 30387 | 2/1950 |
| Spruce Falls Power & Paper | 107 | 1 | 32306 | 6/1955 |
| Thurso & Nation Valley | 5 | 1 | 28238 | 10/1946 |
| Thurso & Nation Valley | 7 | 1 | 30179 | 7/1949 |
Export
| Owner | Road Number(s) | Quantity | Serial Number | Completion Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| F.C. Machacamarca-Unica (Meter Gauge) - Bolivia | 20, 21 | 2 | 29294, 29295 | 3/1948 |
| Cia Mogiana Estrada de Perro (C-C Trucks, Meter Gauge) - Brazil | 2000-2011 | 12 | 31233-31244 | 10/1952-12/1952 |
| E Ferro Santos a Jundiai (63" Gauge) - Brazil | 1-15 | 15 | 32742-32756 | 9/1956-10/1956 |
| Estrada de Ferro Sorocabana (Meter Gauge) - Brazil | 3101-3142 | 42 | 29140-29181 | 5/1947-11/1947 |
| Rede Viacao Parana-Sta-Catarina (Meter Gauge) - Brazil | 30 -33 | 4 | 29182-29185 | 6/1947 |
| Rede Viacao Parana-Sta-Catarina (Meter Gauge) - Brazil | 34-37 | 4 | 29290-29293 | 2/1948 |
| Central Cunagua (Cuba) | 4 | 1 | 33260 | 1/1958 |
| Central Cunagua (Cuba) | 4 (2nd) | 1 | 33419 | 10/1958 |
| Central Cunagua (Cuba) | 6, 8 (2nd) | 2 | 33417, 33418 | 9/1958-10/1958 |
| Central Punta Allegre (Cuba) | No Number | 1 | 31167 | 10/1951 |
| Central San Gorman (Cuba) | No Number | 1 | 31277 | 2/1952 |
| Consolidated Railway of Cuba | No Number | 1 | 31285 | 3/1952 |
| Consolidated Railway of Cuba | 500, 501 | 2 | 31721, 31720 | 10/1952 |
| Cuban Dominican Sales | 2 | 1 | 30843 | 2/1951 |
| Cuban Dominican Sales | 12 | 1 | 30026 | 12/1948 |
| Cuban Dominican Sales | 9-11, 13-17 | 8 | 32792-32799 | 2/1957-5/1957 |
| Cuban Dominican Sales | 18, 19 | 2 | 33255, 33256 | 11/1957 |
| Cubana, S.A. (Cuba) | No Number | 1 | 32422 | 2/1956 |
| Dominican Sugar (Central Palma) - Cuba | 3, 4 (2nd) | 2 | 33251, 33252 | 11/1957 |
| F.C. Cubano Hershey (Cuba) | 14, 15 | 2 | 31280, 31281 | 2/1952 |
| F.C. de Lumas (Cuba) | No Number | 1 | 32684 | 6/1957 |
| F.C. de Lumas (Cuba) | No Number | 1 | 32800 | 5/1957 |
| Francisco Sugar (Cuba) | No Number | 2 | 32677, 32678 | 10/1958 |
| General Sugar Estates (Cuba) | No Number | 1 | 32423 | 2/1956 |
| United Fruit Sugar Company (Central Boston) - Cuba | 121, 122 | 2 | 29173, 29174 | 2/1948 |
| United Fruit Sugar Company (Central Preston) - Cuba | 22, 23 (2nd) | 2 | 29471, 29472 | 1/1948 |
| West Indies Fruit & Steamship (Cuba) | No Number | 2 | 32683, 32685 | 11/1956, 2/1957 |
| Central Rio Haina - Dominican Republic | 2, 3 | 2 | 30449, 30454 | 9/1950 |
| Central Romana - Dominican Republic | 17 | 1 | 32202 | 6/1954 |
| Central Romana - Dominican Republic | 18 | 1 | 32261 | 10/1954 |
| South Puerto Rico Sugar Company (Central Rio Haina) - Dominican Republic | 5 | 1 | 31722 | 10/1952 |
| South Puerto Rico Sugar Company (Central Rio Haina) - Dominican Republic | 7 | 1 | 32419 | 11/1955 |
| South Puerto Rico Sugar Company (Central Rio Haina) - Dominican Republic | 8 | 1 | 32506 | 2/1956 |
| South Puerto Rico Sugar Company (Central Rio Haina) - Dominican Republic | 9, 10 | 2 | 32593, 32594 | 6/1956 |
| South Puerto Rico Sugar Company (Central Rio Haina) - Dominican Republic | 10 (2nd) | 1 | 33421 | 10/1958 |
| South Puerto Rico Sugar Company (Central Romana) - Dominican Republic | 15 | 1 | 29300 | 4/1948 |
| South Puerto Rico Sugar Company (Central Romana) - Dominican Republic | 16 | 1 | 30389 | 11/1949 |
| South Puerto Rico Sugar Company (Central Romana) - Dominican Republic | 17 - 19 | 3 | 32263 - 32265 | 10/1954-12/1954 |
| South Puerto Rico Sugar Company (Central Romana) - Dominican Republic | 20 | 1 | 32686 | 1/1957 |
| South Puerto Rico Sugar Company (Central Romana) - Dominican Republic | 21, 22 | 2 | 33253, 33254 | 12/1957 |
| South Puerto Rico Sugar Company (Central Romana) - Dominican Republic | 23 | 1 | 33422 | 11/1958 |
| Cementos Portland Del Bajio (Mexico) | 2 | 1 | 31172 | 11/1951 |
| Ingenio de Cristobal y Anexas S.A. (Mexico) | 302 | 1 | 32203 | 6/1954 |
| Ingenio de Cristobal y Anexas S.A. (Mexico) | 305 | 1 | 33423 | 12/1959 |
| Ingenio de Cristobal y Anexas S.A. (Mexico) | 306 | 1 | 33420 | 3/1959 |
| Petroleos Mexicanos PEMEX (Mexico) | 102 | 1 | 29301 | 4/1948 |
| Petroleos Mexicanos PEMEX (Mexico) | 107 | 1 | 30173 | 6/1949 |
| Terminal de Vera Cruz, S.A. (Mexico) | D50-D52 | 3 | 30010-30012 | 5/1949 |
| Unidos Nacional de Productores de Azucar (Mexico) | No Number | 1 | 32298 | 6/1955 |
| Unidos Nacional de Productores de Azucar (Mexico) | No Number | 1 | 32570 | 5/1956 |
| Philippine National Railways (42" Gauge) | 101-103 | 3 | 32288-32290 | 11-12/1954 |
| Philippine National Railways (42" Gauge) | 104 | 1 | 32801 | 4/1957 |
Data Sheet and Specifications
| Entered Production | 10/1946 (Demonstrator #7001) |
| Years Produced | 10/1946 - 12/1957 |
| Engine | FWL-6T |
| Engine Builder | Cooper-Bessemer |
| Horsepower | 550-600 |
| RPM | 1000 |
| Bore and Stroke | 9" x 10 ½" |
| Cylinders | 6 |
| Length | 37' 0" |
| Height (Top Of Rail To Top Of Cab) | 13' 5 ½" |
| Width | 10' 0" |
| Weight | 139,000 Lbs |
| Fuel Capacity | 500 Gallons |
| Air Brake Manufacturer | Westinghouse |
| Air Brake Schedule | 14EL |
| Trucks | B-B |
| Truck Type | Welded |
| Truck Wheelbase | 6'48 10" |
| Wheel Size | 36" |
| Traction Motors | 733 (4), GE |
| Primary Generator | GT-571 (2) |
| Auxiliary Generator | GMG-146 |
| MU (Multiple-Unit) | Yes |
| Dynamic Brakes | No |
| Gear Ratio | 105:15 |
| Tractive Effort (Starting) | 41,700 Lbs at 30% |
| Tractive Effort (Continuous) | 23,600 Lbs at 7 mph |
| Top Speed | 55 mph |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the story of the 70-tonner is one of uncomplicated but highly effective engineering, meeting the specific demands of the rail industry during a pivotal time in its history. It is a testament to the prowess of General Electric's locomotive division, a machine that was not just a product of its era, but one that actually helped to define it.
Balancing power, versatility, and simplicity, the switcher might not have been the flashiest locomotive of its time, but it certainly was one of the most important. Its enduring respect amongst the industry and enthusiasts alike is a testament to its significant legacy within the annals of North American railroading.
Sources
- Hayden, Bob. Diesel Locomotives: Cyclopedia, Volume 2 (Model Railroader). Milwaukee: Kalmbach Publishing Company, 1980.
- General Electric, Apparatus Department. 380-HP, 44-Ton Diesel Electric Railroad Locomotive: For Yard Switching and Road Service. Schenectady: 1947.
- Marre, Louis A. Diesel Locomotives: The First 50 Years, A Guide To Diesels Built Before 1972. Milwaukee: Kalmbach Publishing Company, 1995.
- Rail Heritage Publications. Early Diesel-Electric and Electric Locomotives. Simmons-Boardman Publishing Corporation, 1983.
- Reed, Jay. Critters, Dinkys & Centercabs. Whittier: Rio Hondo, 2000.
- Solomon, Brian. GE Locomotives: 110 Years Of General Electric Motive Power. St. Paul: MBI Publishing, 2003.
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Pittsburgh and Lake Erie Railroad: Map, Rosters, Photos
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Pittsburgh & Lake Erie—the Little Giant. Chartered 1875, Pittsburgh to Youngstown February 10, 1879. New York Central from 1883. Independent May 15, 1979. Last day September 11, 1992. -
Kansas Dinner Train Rides (2026): A Complete Guide
Sep 23, 26 01:11 PM
2026 Abilene & Smoky Valley Smoky Valley Limited—two hours from the Rock Island Depot, about $72–$110, dates into December 31. Confirm on asvrr.org. -
The Belpaire Firebox: Simplicity and Greater Power
Sep 23, 26 01:03 PM
Belpaire firebox—Alfred Belpaire, 1864. Square crown, straight staybolts at right angles. Pennsylvania standard after the 1880s. Great Northern was the other big user. -
Pennsylvania Railroad (PRR) Electric Roster: All Classes
Sep 23, 26 12:57 PM
Pennsylvania Railroad electrics—DD1s into Penn Station, P5s, 139 GG1s, B1 switchers, and 66 E44s. Class roster, 1905–1963. No unit-by-unit GG1 list. -
Penn Central Diesel Roster: All-Time
Sep 23, 26 12:46 PM
Penn Central diesel roster—PRR classes on NYC, PRR, and New Haven power. New orders carry serials. GP38-2s are 7940-8162. Conrail April 1, 1976. -
Penn Central Railroad: Map, History, Logo
Sep 23, 26 12:32 PM
Penn Central—Pennsylvania and New York Central merged February 1, 1968. New Haven January 1, 1969. Section 77 bankruptcy June 21, 1970. Conrail April 1, 1976. -
Iowa Dinner Train Rides (2026): A Complete Guide
Sep 23, 26 11:42 AM
2026 Boone & Scenic Valley Wolf Dinner Train—Saturdays May–October, Union Pacific dining cars, Bass Point Creek High Bridge. Confirm on bsvrr.com. -
Pennsylvania-Reading Seashore Lines: Map, Roster, History
Sep 23, 26 12:32 AM
Pennsylvania-Reading Seashore Lines—Atlantic City Railroad renamed July 15, 1933. Pennsylvania two-thirds, Reading one-third. Camden to Atlantic City, Cape May, and Millville. Conrail April 1, 1976. -
Wisconsin Dinner Train Rides (2026): A Complete Guide
Sep 23, 26 12:28 AM
2026 Wisconsin Great Northern dinner train in Trego—$105, Namekagon River, January 8–31 and May 5–December 17. Mid-Continent’s remaining 2026 calendar is snack and scenic. Confirm on the railroad. -
New Hampshire Dinner Train Rides (2026): A Complete Guide
Sep 23, 26 12:21 AM
2026 Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train in North Woodstock—five courses, 2 hours, from $125. Children under 6 not allowed. Confirm on nhdinnertrain.com. -
PRR "GG-1" Locomotives: Roster, Photos, Specs
Sep 23, 26 12:13 AM
PRR GG1 electric: 139 locomotives, 4800–4938, built 1934–1943. Specs, Loewy shell, Amtrak numbers, and the last revenue trip on October 28, 1983. -
Montana Dinner Train Rides (2026): A Complete Guide
Sep 23, 26 12:04 AM
2026 Charlie Russell Chew Choo from Hanover, near Lewistown—4.5 hours, prime rib, adult $151. Remaining listed dates sold out. Confirm on montanadinnertrain.com. -
Kentucky Dinner Train Rides (2026): A Complete Guide
Sep 22, 26 11:52 PM
2026 My Old Kentucky Dinner Train in Bardstown—four courses, 2.5 hours, adult $116. Confirm on kydinnertrain.com. -
Tennessee Dinner Train Rides (2026): A Complete Guide
Sep 22, 26 11:45 PM
2026 TVRM Chattanooga Dinner Train—Grand Junction, select Fri/Sat March 6–October 24, 6 p.m., from $110. Confirm on tvrail.com. -
The Trainphone: PRR's Wireless Radio System
Sep 22, 26 11:17 PM
Pennsylvania Trainphone—Union Switch & Signal inductive telephone. Bel-Del trial 1941, Frenchtown November 29, 1943. Carriers at 88 kHz and 144 kHz. Out of service April 30, 1967. -
Pennsylvania (PRR) Steam Roster: Post 1906
Sep 22, 26 11:13 PM
ennsylvania steam after 1906—H8, H9, and H10 Consolidations, 574 L1s Mikados, 598 I1s Decapods, 425 K4s Pacifics, 301 M1 Mountains. Drury’s grid. Last steam November 30, 1957. -
Pennsylvania Railroad (PRR) Diesel Roster: All-Time List
Sep 22, 26 10:59 PM
Pennsylvania diesel roster—SW 3908 in June 1937, then Alco, Baldwin, EMD, Fairbanks-Morse, GE, and Lima. Serials and Alco order numbers. Penn Central February 1, 1968. -
Pennsylvania Railroad: Map, Logo, History, Rosters
Sep 22, 26 10:02 PM
Pennsylvania Railroad—chartered April 13, 1846, Harrisburg–Pittsburgh, Horseshoe Curve 1854, Penn Station 1910. Standard Railroad of the World. Penn Central February 1, 1968. -
Pennsylvania Dinner Train Rides (2026): A Complete Guide
Sep 22, 26 04:48 PM
2026 Pennsylvania dinner trains—Colebrookdale Dining Class in Boyertown and Strasburg Dinner on the Rails. Confirm on each railroad. -
New York, Ontario & Western Steam Locomotives: History & Roster
Sep 22, 26 04:40 PM
NYO&W steam—camelback 2-8-0s and 2-6-0s, Class X Bull Moose 2-10-2s, Class Y and Y-2 Mountains. All-time class roster. Steam finished in the summer of 1948. None saved. -
New York, Ontario & Western Diesel Roster: All-Time
Sep 22, 26 04:36 PM
NYO&W diesel—five GE 44-tonners 101-105, eighteen FTs, seven F3s, twenty-one NW2s. Serials and the NW2 order E824. Railroad liquidated March 29 1957. -
New York, Ontario & Western Railway: Map, Roster, History
Sep 22, 26 04:26 PM
New York, Ontario & Western—New York & Oswego Midland chartered January 11 1866, O&W January 21 1880. Scranton coal, West Shore rights. Last train March 29 1957. -
Massachusetts Dinner Train Rides (2026): A Complete Guide
Sep 22, 26 04:16 PM
2026 Cape Cod Dinner Train—Hyannis, Buzzards Bay, and North Falmouth. Four-course, 3–3½ hours, from $99.99. Confirm on capetrain.com. -
Colorado Dinner Train Rides (2026): A Complete Guide
Sep 22, 26 03:51 PM
2026 Royal Gorge Route First Class Dinner and Lunch from Cañon City. About 2 hours, 12+, from $199+. Confirm on royalgorgeroute.com. -
New York and Long Branch Railroad: A PRR & CNJ Subsidiary
Sep 22, 26 03:11 PM
New York & Long Branch—chartered April 8 1868, Perth Amboy–Long Branch July 1 1875, Bay Head Junction 1881. Jersey Central and Pennsylvania trains. Conrail April 1 1976. NJ Transit North Jersey Co… -
Monongahela Railway Steam Locomotives: History & Roster
Sep 22, 26 01:34 PM
Monongahela steam—H-5 Consolidations, USRA light Mikados 170–179, Baldwin L-2s, ex-P&LE L-3s. All-time roster. Last steam May 26, 1954. -
Monongahela Railway Diesel Roster: All-Time
Sep 22, 26 01:16 PM
Monongahela diesel—27 Baldwin S-12s, NYC RF-16 sharks, P&LE GP7s, GP38s 2000–2004, Super 7s 2300–2310. Serials and orders. Last steam May 26, 1954. -
Monongahela Railway: Map, Rosters, History
Sep 22, 26 01:14 PM
Monongahela Railway—incorporated December 31 1900, Railway July 1 1915. Brownsville–Fairmont coal road. Last steam May 26 1954. Conrail May 1 1993. -
Virginia Scenic Railway Dining (2026)
Sep 22, 26 01:09 PM
2026 Virginia Scenic Railway—Blue Ridge Flyer Dining Class from Staunton, about 3 hours, plated meal. Sunday Brunch from Louisa, about $132. Confirm on virginiascenicrailway.com. -
Virginia Dinner Train Rides (2026): A Complete Guide
Sep 22, 26 01:03 PM
2026 Virginia Scenic Railway—Blue Ridge Flyer Dining Class from Staunton, Alleghany Special Dining Class, Sunday Brunch from Louisa. Confirm on virginiascenicrailway.com. -
Oregon Dinner Train Rides (2026): A Complete Guide
Sep 22, 26 12:51 PM
2026 Oregon has no plated dinner train on the calendar. Mount Hood is scenic with snacks. Oregon Coast Scenic’s evening ride is the 21+ Moonlight with sandwiches. -
Maine Central Steam Locomotives: History & Roster
Sep 22, 26 12:33 PM
Maine Central steam—Ten-Wheelers, W-class Consolidations, S-class Mikados, C-class Pacifics, Hudsons 701 and 702. Post-1900 roster after Drury. Last steam June 13, 1954. -
Maine Central Diesel Roster: All-Time
Sep 22, 26 12:04 PM
Maine Central diesel—railcar 901, HH660s, GP7s, E7s, F3s, GP38s, U18Bs, ex-Rock Island U25Bs. All-time roster with serials and orders. Last steam June 13, 1954. -
Maine Central Railroad: Map, Logo, Rosters, History
Sep 22, 26 11:36 AM
Maine Central—Androscoggin & Kennebec and Penobscot & Kennebec, October 28 1862. Pine Tree Route. Mountain Division, Portland–Bangor–Vanceboro. Last steam June 13 1954. Guilford June 1981.
