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Proto 2000 HO Scale
EMD GP38-2 Locomotive
Prototype Information
In the 60s EMD identified the need for a medium-horsepower roadswitcher with no turbocharger for improved reliability. With the rack settings on its 16-cylinder 645 prime mover set at a very conservative 2,000 horsepower, tried-and-true traction motors and other components, the GP38 was designed for reliability in all kinds of service. The locomotive sold well, but the addition of easy-to-maintain modular electronics made its successor the GP38-2 the runaway favorite with 2,188 locos sold. The externally identical GP38AC with an AC generator accounted for another 240 sales. GP38-2 production began in 1972 and lasted through 1987.
Late-production GP38-2s constructed beginning in 1977 came equipped with an 88" long low nose; this model is based on these units. Fuel tank size was specified by the customer and units came equipped with Blomberg M truck, although many were built with reconditioned standard Blomberg trucks from traded-in units. The GP38-2 could be found in all kinds of service from hauling road and wayfreights to ushering commuter (on the Long Island Railroad) and long-distance passenger trains (Mexican steam generator-equipped models) across the railroad. Hundreds could also be found in local, yard and heavy industrial switching service. In recent years, they fetch a pretty penny on the used locomotive market - if their original Class I owners ever get rid of them. The model was so successful that even in 2006 some Class I roads were still purchasing remanufactured/rebuilt units built to GP38-2 standards. Many have been rebuilt and still serve for their original owners, others have gone on to shortlines and regional roads.
Model Information
Dynamic Brake Option (As Appropriate)
Magnetic Knuckle Couplers
Dual Machined Brass Flywheels
Union Pacific #2139
MSRP $135.00
Your Normal Price $99.95
CLOSEOUT PRICE
ONLY $77.75
MTW Part #PR-920-31056 |
