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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Feb 15, 26 10:46 AM
If you’ve ever wished you could pair a classic scenic train ride with a genuinely satisfying meal—served at your table while the countryside rolls by—the Virginia Scenic Railway was built for you. -
New Hampshire's Dinner Train Rides In N. Conway
Feb 15, 26 10:45 AM
Tucked into the heart of New Hampshire’s Mount Washington Valley, the Conway Scenic Railroad is one of New England’s most beloved heritage railways. -
Union Pacific 4014 Begins Coast-To-Coast Tour
Feb 15, 26 12:30 AM
Union Pacific’s legendary 4-8-8-4 “Big Boy” No. 4014 is scheduled to return to the main line in a big way this spring, kicking off the railroad’s first-ever coast-to-coast steam tour as part of a broa… -
Amtrak Introduces The Cascades Airo Trainset
Feb 15, 26 12:11 AM
Amtrak pulled the curtain back this month on the first trainset in its forthcoming Airo fleet, using Union Station as a stage to preview what the railroad says is a major step forward in comfort, acce… -
Nevada Northern Railway 2-8-0 81 Returns
Feb 14, 26 11:54 PM
The Nevada Northern Railway Museum has successfully fired its Baldwin-built 2-8-0 No. 81 after a lengthy outage and intensive mechanical work, a major milestone that sets the stage for the locomotive… -
Metrolink F59PH 851 Preserved In Fullerton, CA
Feb 14, 26 11:41 PM
Metrolink has donated locomotive No. 851—its first rostered unit—to the Fullerton Train Museum, where it will be displayed and interpreted as a cornerstone artifact from the region’s modern passenger… -
Oregon's Dinner Train Rides Near Mt. Hood!
Feb 14, 26 09:16 AM
The Mt. Hood Railroad is the moving part of that postcard—a century-old short line that began as a working railroad. -
Maryland's Dinner Train Rides At WMSR!
Feb 14, 26 09:15 AM
The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad (WMSR) has become one of the Mid-Atlantic’s signature heritage operations—equal parts mountain railroad, living museum, and “special-occasion” night out. -
Colorado Wild West Train Rides
Feb 14, 26 09:13 AM
If there’s one weekend (or two) at the Colorado Railroad Museum that captures that “living history” spirit better than almost anything else, it’s Wild West Days. -
South Dakota Beer Tasting Train Rides
Feb 14, 26 09:11 AM
While the 1880 Train's regular runs are a treat in any season, the Oktoberfest Express adds an extra layer of fun: German-inspired food, seasonal beer, and live polka set against the sound and spectac… -
Kentucky Wild West Train Rides
Feb 14, 26 09:10 AM
One of KRM’s most crowd-pleasing themed events is “The Outlaw Express,” a Wild West train robbery ride built around family-friendly entertainment and a good cause. -
Pennsylvania "Wild West" Train Rides
Feb 14, 26 09:08 AM
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. -
Indiana "Wild West" Train Rides
Feb 14, 26 09:06 AM
Indiana offers a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of the Wild West through its captivating train rides. -
B&O Observation "Washington" Cosmetically Restored
Feb 14, 26 12:25 AM
Visitors to the B&O Railroad Museum will soon be able to step into a freshly revived slice of postwar rail luxury: Baltimore & Ohio No. 3316, the observation-tavern car Washington. -
Southern 2-8-2 4501 Returns To Classic Green
Feb 14, 26 12:24 AM
Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum officials announced that Southern Railway steam locomotive No. 4501—the museum’s flagship 2-8-2 Mikado—will reappear from its annual inspection wearing the classic Sou… -
Illinois Murder Mystery Dinner Train Rides
Feb 13, 26 12:04 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
Feb 13, 26 12:00 PM
There are currently murder mystery dinner trains offered in Vermont but until recently the Champlain Valley Dinner Train offered such a trip! -
Missouri Ice Cream Tasting Train Rides
Feb 13, 26 11:47 AM
Among the Iron Mountain Railway's warm-weather offerings, the Ice Cream Express stands out as a perfect “easy yes” outing: a short road trip, a real train ride, and a built-in treat that turns the who… -
Florida "Wild West" Train Rides
Feb 13, 26 09:53 AM
This article delves into wild west rides throughout Florida, the historical context surrounding them, and their undeniable charm. -
West Virginia "Wild West" Train Rides
Feb 13, 26 09:49 AM
While D&GV is known for several different excursions across the region, one of the most entertaining rides on its calendar is the Greenbrier Express Wild West Special. -
Alabama "Wild West" Train Rides
Feb 13, 26 09:47 AM
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. -
Michigan "Wild West" Train Rides
Feb 13, 26 09:46 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. -
Grand Trunk Western 4-6-2 No. 5629
Feb 13, 26 12:10 AM
Included here is a detailed look at 5629’s build date and design, key specifications, revenue career on the Grand Trunk Western, its surprisingly active excursion life under private ownership, and its… -
New York Easter Train Rides
Feb 12, 26 01:19 PM
New York is home to several Easter-themed train rides including the Adirondack Railroad, Catskill Mountain Railroad, and a few others! -
Missouri Easter Train Rides
Feb 12, 26 01:13 PM
The beautiful state of Missouri is home to a handful of heritage railroads although only one provides an Easter-themed train ride. Learn more about this event here. -
Arizona's Wild West Train Rides
Feb 12, 26 01:05 PM
Let's delve into the captivating world of Arizona's Wild West train adventures, currently offered at the popular Grand Canyon Railway. -
Missouri's Wild West Train Rides
Feb 12, 26 12:49 PM
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. -
Maine's Tea Tasting Train Rides
Feb 12, 26 12:42 PM
Tea trains aboard the historic WW&F Railway Museum promises to transport you not just through the picturesque landscapes of Maine, but also back to a simpler time. -
Pennsylvania Tea Tasting Train Rides
Feb 12, 26 12:09 PM
In this article, we explore some of the most enchanting tea train rides in Pennsylvania, currently offered at the historic Strasburg Rail Road. -
Nevada St. Patrick's Day Train Rides
Feb 12, 26 11:39 AM
Today, restored segments of the “Queen of the Short Lines” host scenic excursions and special events that blend living history with pure entertainment—none more delightfully suspenseful than the Emera… -
Minnesota Ice Cream Tasting Train Rides
Feb 12, 26 10:22 AM
Among MTM’s most family-friendly excursions is a summertime classic: the Dresser Ice Cream Train (often listed as the Osceola/Dresser Ice Cream Train).
