GP38AC - MagnumMacKivler/RLCPT2 GitHub Wiki
Builder photo of LV GP38AC #310 shot in 1971. Photo credit Anthracite Railroads Historical Society
The GP38AC was a modified GP38 locomotive equipped with an AR10 AC alternator, instead of the typical D32 DC generator. After successful results, later "Dash 2" (such as the GP38-2) locomotives and beyond were equipped from then on with AR10 alternators. The Dash 2 line (the 4 axle units at least) also took the hood styling from the GP38AC, with redesigned blower ducting and slight carbody changes.
Between February of 1970 to December of 1971, 261 GP38AC locomotives were made for various railroads; Norfolk and Western and Southern Railways owning nearly half of all examples.
PT-Specific Information
| General Info | - |
|---|---|
| Prime Mover | EMD 16-645E |
| Horsepower | 2000 |
| Truck Type | EMD "Blomberg" B |
| Axles | 4 |
| Traction Motors | 4 |
| Minimum Weight | 244800 lbs |
| Maximum Weight | 280000 lbs |
| Model Base Speed | 65 MPH |
| Top Speed | 65, 71, 77, 83, 90, 96 MPH |
| Electrical System | - |
|---|---|
| Generator Max Current | 6000 Amps |
| Max Traction Motor (TM) Current | 1500 Amps |
| Max Continuous TM Current | 1050 Amps |
| Traction Motor Type | DC |
| Factor of Adhesion | 25% |
| Transition Mode | Automatic with Selector |
| Transition Groups | 1 |
| Transition Shunts | 1 |
| Generator Transition | No |
| Traction Control | APR + Sand |
| Dynamic Braking (DB) Mode (if used) | Mechanical Blowers |
| DB Max Current | 700 Amps |
| DB Max Continuous Current | 700 Amps |
| Blended Braking | No |
| Miscellaneous | - |
|---|---|
| Head-End Power (HEP) | No |
| HEP Power Consumption | N/A |
| HEP Standby/Run Mode | N/A |
| Load Ramp Speed | 2 Amps/Tick |
| TM Overload Protection | No |
| Starter Mode | Manual Primer, Manual Start |
| Air Brake Schedule | 26-L |
| Compressor CFM | 254 (WBO @ 900 RPM) |
| Main Reservoir Volume | 35 Cubic Feet |