CSX SD40-3 and GP38/GP40 Dash 3 Series
Take an old SD40-2 unit from the dead line that provided thirty years of service, strip it down to the bone, then rebuild it with updated operating systems and you’ll get another thirty years out of it. At least that is the philosophy at CSX and based on the exceptional track record of the SD40-2, this is a realistic expectation. In essence, the company is building “new” locomotives at a fraction of the cost of the new GE GEVO series and if the SD40-3 does establish itself as reliable motive power, then this rebuild program will be a bargain indeed.
upgrades
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The rebuild program is based out of the Huntington, WV shops and initially, these units were restricted to running on the Huntington Division. Since the program was initiated in early 2011 and of this writing, the shops have churned out twenty-eight units with the number series 4000-4027 and they are freely roaming the CSX network now. The projected goal is for a total of 300 units.
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The #4008 on Q676 in the siding at Lilesville, NC. Dan Robie 2011
For locomotive aficionados, listed below are the upgrades this unit has received that distinguish it from its SD40-2 predecessor:
New cabs that can withstand crashes
• Heating and air conditioning systems
• New control system
• Positive Train Control technology
• Modernized starting systems
On the topic of performance, notable is that the improvements will yield rejuvenated 3,000-horsepower, six-axle locomotives for the fleet. The tractive power will increase from 86,000 to about 130,000 pounds, making it capable of doing the work of more modern, high-horsepower units in all types of freight service including intermodal and coal.
New cabs that can withstand crashes
• Heating and air conditioning systems
• New control system
• Positive Train Control technology
• Modernized starting systems
On the topic of performance, notable is that the improvements will yield rejuvenated 3,000-horsepower, six-axle locomotives for the fleet. The tractive power will increase from 86,000 to about 130,000 pounds, making it capable of doing the work of more modern, high-horsepower units in all types of freight service including intermodal and coal.
A selection of interior and exterior cab views above. All photos Dan Robie 2011
SD40-3 #4014 at Pinoca Yard in Charlotte, NC Dan Robie 2011
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A side to rear profile of SD40-3 #4014. Dan Robie 2011
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Visually speaking, most apparent is the new “safety” cab that radically alters the appearance compared to the Spartan cab design used on EMD hood units since the introduction of the GP35/SD35 series of the mid 1960s. In railfanning circles, this design has divided opinions. Some refer to the new look as “ugly” while others find it “innovative” and “acceptable”. There is definitely no debating that it is different. From a personal standpoint and having seen several of them now, I’ve taken a liking to them. I look at it as being a "21st century SD40-2" that will ensure that it continues on if not only in spirit for many years to come. Hopefully, that spirit of reliability will carry on as well.
The class unit #4000 leads two other EMDs on Q614 through Waxhaw, NC on the afternoon of July 31, 2011. Dan Robie 2011
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It is early morning on Veterans Day 2011 as SD40-3 #4006 awaits the drop of the blue flag for departure to Monroe and Hamlet with F768. This train became Q468 effective September 2012. Dan Robie 2011.
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I have had the opportunity to speak with engineers who have run these rebuilds. Their comments have been favorable thus far about the performance despite the initial bugs the first units had. Apparently, those early operational glitches were corrected. Time will tell and dictate the track record and eventual reputation these models will earn.
The setting sun glistens off the #4017 at Charlotte which had just arrived on the Q469 from Hamlet. Dan Robie 2013
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Close up of the rear of the #4017 and number boards. The black field with white numerals makes for better visibility. Dan Robie 2013
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SD40-3 #4045 sporting the newer "boxcar" logo on the rip track at Charlotte shortly after arriving with Q469 from Hamlet. Dan Robie 2013
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The #4045 later that evening under the glow of mercury vapor lights. Dan Robie 2013
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The next to last in the number series (as of June 2013). The #4048 is on the ready track at sunset paired with an AC44CW for power on the next day Q468. Dan Robie 2013
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Another unique feature of the SD40-3 is the hand brake stand on the rear platform. Dan Robie 2013
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Head on profile of the #4048. From a distance, these models present a silhouette similar to a GP30. Dan Robie 2013
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SD40-3 #4044 and GE mates at rest during the falling snow in Pinoca Yard at Charlotte. This group will lead the next day Q468 to Hamlet. Dan Robie 2014
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Six axle power used in local service at Charlotte is restricted due to curvatures in the industrial parks and on former P&N trackage. Any that is assigned is used in Pinoca Yard and to switch the intermodal terminal. The #4035 spent a week in this duty during March. Dan Robie 2014
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A SD40-3 as a trailing unit. The #4011 in shadow play from the inside of the curve on the west departure track at Hamlet, NC.as Q619 begins its long journey to New Orleans. Dan Robie 2014
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The #4027 runs as a trailing unit on a manifest train through Manville, NJ in January 2015. Photo contributed by William Vandeveer
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The #4053 was the first of the Boise (MPI) rebuilds to appear at Charlotte. Note that the external brake has been relocated from the rear platform to a recessed panel at the rear on the engineer side on the MPI versions. Dan Robie 2015
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A color filtered image of one of the early models, the #4010. Image filtering defines the lines more so than color. Dan Robie 2015
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SD40-3 #4029, SD60 #8702, and another unit descend Sand Patch Grade in Pennsylvania with a manifest train in autumn 2015. Image courtesy Sholto Thomas.
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A pair of CSX newer power on the roster at Pinoca Yard at Charlotte. SD40-3 #4289, teamed with ES44AH #3233, idle with a long cut of cars on an icy frigid day in the Queen City. Dan Robie 2016
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One of the first rebuilds from Huntington,WV, the #4003, leads southbound intermodal Q027 through Cullman, AL in November 2016. From a personal standpoint, this railfan prefers the standard CSX lettering as opposed to the newer"boxcar" logo . Image courtesy Noah Chappell
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SD40-3s #4013 and #4061 are tied down at the end of first trick. Soon they will be at work again switching at Pinoca Yard in Charlotte. Dan Robie 2017
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One of the 4300 series rebuilds from Boise paired with a Huntington release. The #4331 and the #4026 on the ready track at Charlotte. Dan Robie 2017
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Q038 arrived at Charlotte with the crew short on time and relief has arrived to shuttle the power to Pinoca Yard. SD40-3s #4020 and #4088 idle as the swap takes place. Dan Robie 2017
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Early Huntington rebuilds #4011 and #4004 arrive with the inbound Q038. The train is at the "South End Pinoca" signal as it spots the 8000' "Threads Express" to the Charlotte intermodal ramp. Dan Robie 2017
Huntington rebuild #4026 paired with the #4331 on the ready track at Charlotte. Dan Robie 2017
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SD40-3 #4013 casts a reflection in a pool of water left by the morning heavy rain. Dan Robie 2017
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SD40-3 #4041 is tied down with a Jordan spreader in the sub siding across from the Hamlet, NC station. These rebuilds are now being utilized in all types of service. Image Matt Robie 2017
SD40-3 #4025 awaits an assignment at Pinoca Yard at Charlotte. The type of mercury vapor lighting here gives night shots a pink hue. Dan Robie 2017
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The #4033 and #4074 are paired on the ready track at Charlotte. A heavy rain created the puddle providing the opportunity for the reflection. Dan Robie 2017
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Two views of the same train: SD40-3 #4061 is in the service of its competitor as it leads NS 214 seen at different locations. At left, the intermodal passes through China Grove, NC and at right, drifting downgrade at Spencer, NC nearing a crew change at Linwood Yard. Both images Dan Robie 2017
Now in an era of "Precision Scheduled Railroading", road power other than wide cab GEs has become increasingly scarce. Breaking the pattern was this duo of #4027 and #4000 that arrived with Q581. Dan Robie 2018
The #4044 is at rest on the ready track at Bill Yard in Winston Salem, NC. Locomotive is in service on the Winston Salem Southbound Railway jointly operated by CSX and NS. Dan Robie 2018
On the RIP track at Charlotte is SD40-3 #4374 with short train including a generator load. Beside it on the adjacent track is GP38-2 #2559 of Durham and Southern Railroad lineage. Dan Robie 2019
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A lashup of seven locomotives begin building the outbound Q037 at Charlotte. SD40-3 #4038 leads the group immediate trailed by the #4005. Dan Robie 2019
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One of the Idaho rebuilds, the #4324, is paired with an #8800 series SD40-2 on the Pinoca Yard lead at Charlotte. The pair is building the manifest freight block for the outbound Q037 departure later that evening. Dan Robie 2019
The trailing #4005 in a long lashup of power at the CSXI Charlotte ramp. One of the Huntington rebuilds sans the boxcar logo that initially began with the #4045. Dan Robie 2019
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A trio of EMDs---including a two for one---couple to a cut of cars at the intermodal ramp. SD40-3 #4064, GP38-3 #2006, and SD40-2 #8044 bask in the sunshine of a gorgeous March day. Dan Robie 2020
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An early Huntington rebuild in the form of the #4002. Dash 3 power has been cyclic at Charlotte---several units will be assigned during brief intervals followed by periods of none for months. Dan Robie 2020
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SD40-3 #4036 is not far from Huntington, WV where it was reworked into a Dash 3. Assigned to yard and industrial service at the CSX South Charleston, WV terminal. Dan Robie 2021
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SD40-3 #4053 and GE mates are notched up as they climb the grade at Milepost 363 at sunset in Lincolnton, NC. Train is K465 ethanol train bound for the Winston Salem Southbound Railway connection at Wadesboro. Dan Robie 2021
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Side profile of the #4080 through the wild flora at Pinoca Yard in Charlotte. Not only favored on road power but crews also like them in switching service as well. Dan Robie 2022
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A pair of SD40-3s at Charlotte assigned to local service. The #4040 and #4056 are adjacent to the CSX intermodal terminal as they prepare to depart with Y103 on an overcast morning. Dan Robie 2023
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Another rendition of the #4040 and #4056 on a sunny day with a reflective water puddle. GP40-2 #6440 shares the scene. Dan Robie 2023
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Updates
Late 2012- A number of units taken out of service for engineer seat modifications. Eventually, all will be repaired as they are rotated for servicing. New SD40-3s will feature the corrected seats.
As of January 2013, the number series on the SD40-3 is 4000-4049, a total of 50 units. A few of them have the new CSX "boxcar" logo added.
March 2013-Heard reports that the SD40-3 program would be discontinued for 2013 although no official confirmation about this.
April 2013--Although the company announced that the projection was to increase tractive effort to a maximum of 130,000 lbs, to date all units are currently listed at about 82,000.
June 2013: An official at the Huntington Shops confirmed that the SD40-3 rebuilds will resume once Jacksonville reallocates funding for the program. No specific date for resumption at this time.
October 2013: SD40-3 rebuilds tentatively scheduled to resume in 2015. 2014 will see a similar rebuild program commence for four axle units presumably the GP40-2s. Other units such as GP15s, GP38-2s, and GP39s not mentioned although that does not necessarily rule any out that are or become candidates. These rebuilds will utilize the safety cab used on the SD40-3.
November 2013: A prototype GP38-3 and GP40-3 are in the works to be constructed possibly by the end of 2013. The initial plan---always subject to change--is for 22 GP38-3s to be built during 2014. All will incorporate the "safety cab" used on the SD40-3.
August 2014: Information from Huntington that EMD will build 50 SD40-3s in 2015. Unit numbers #4050-#4099.These conversions to be outsourced to MPI (MotivePower, Inc) in Boise, ID
April 2015: SD40-3 #4050-#4051 on roster----GP38-3 roster to date #2000-2019----GP40-3 roster to date #6500-6519
July 2015: I have not been prompt with updates this year but here is one for the roster slots for the SD40-3, GP38-3, and GP40-3. These units are in various states of disposition including the SD40-3 rebuilds at Boise, ID, out of service for modification/repairs on CSXT network, and of course, the ones in active service. SD40-3 now runs through #4069---ten more SD40-2s en route to Boise as of this writing for conversion that will occupy roster spots to #4080. GP38-3 roster now to #2031 and GP40-3 to #6527
As of January 2013, the number series on the SD40-3 is 4000-4049, a total of 50 units. A few of them have the new CSX "boxcar" logo added.
March 2013-Heard reports that the SD40-3 program would be discontinued for 2013 although no official confirmation about this.
April 2013--Although the company announced that the projection was to increase tractive effort to a maximum of 130,000 lbs, to date all units are currently listed at about 82,000.
June 2013: An official at the Huntington Shops confirmed that the SD40-3 rebuilds will resume once Jacksonville reallocates funding for the program. No specific date for resumption at this time.
October 2013: SD40-3 rebuilds tentatively scheduled to resume in 2015. 2014 will see a similar rebuild program commence for four axle units presumably the GP40-2s. Other units such as GP15s, GP38-2s, and GP39s not mentioned although that does not necessarily rule any out that are or become candidates. These rebuilds will utilize the safety cab used on the SD40-3.
November 2013: A prototype GP38-3 and GP40-3 are in the works to be constructed possibly by the end of 2013. The initial plan---always subject to change--is for 22 GP38-3s to be built during 2014. All will incorporate the "safety cab" used on the SD40-3.
August 2014: Information from Huntington that EMD will build 50 SD40-3s in 2015. Unit numbers #4050-#4099.These conversions to be outsourced to MPI (MotivePower, Inc) in Boise, ID
April 2015: SD40-3 #4050-#4051 on roster----GP38-3 roster to date #2000-2019----GP40-3 roster to date #6500-6519
July 2015: I have not been prompt with updates this year but here is one for the roster slots for the SD40-3, GP38-3, and GP40-3. These units are in various states of disposition including the SD40-3 rebuilds at Boise, ID, out of service for modification/repairs on CSXT network, and of course, the ones in active service. SD40-3 now runs through #4069---ten more SD40-2s en route to Boise as of this writing for conversion that will occupy roster spots to #4080. GP38-3 roster now to #2031 and GP40-3 to #6527
August 2015: Two items of note: (1) SD40-2 #8888 is en route to Boise for rebuild and (2) the 12 SD40-2s acquired from NS in the SD80MAC trade earlier this year are also headed to Boise. None of these units---black with gold lettering/numbering---will have never seen service as SD40-2s on CSX rails. CSXT # 8900-8911
Fall 2015: Modifications have been made to the roster numbering sequence. Several of the former Conrail SD40-2s (8800 series) are being renumbered as #4200 series SD40-3s. The 8900 series acquired from NS will fall into the # 4300 series group. As SD40-2s continue through the SD40-3 conversions, they will fall into the new series according to heritage and variations.
January 2016: CSX abolishes the Huntington Division as an operational entity effective spring 2016. Four axle program at Huntington Shops will continue as per contract; Roster updates: SD40-3 (4000-4085) (4225-4233) (4384-4390)--GP38-3 (2000-2039)--GP40-3 (6500-6542)
April 2016: Roster updates: SD40-3 (4000-4086) (4225-4235) (4372-4390). A number of these locomotives are in various states of disposition--in service, still in Idaho, stored, or shopped.
July 2016: Roster updates: SD40-3 (4000-4090) (4225-4237) (4372-4390)-- various states of disposition
The "class" unit---#8900---of the NS acquired SD40-2s by CSX at Pocatello, ID en route to Boise as SD40-3 fodder. Image courtesy of Ed Banks
Six of the 8900 series SD40-2s acquired from NS in exchange for the CSX SD80MACs. All will be rebuilt as SD40-3s by MPI in Boise, Idaho. Images courtesy CSX Huntington Locomotive Shop. All rights reserved 2015
Modeling the SD40-3
To my knowledge, no manufacturers have yet released this model in either ready to run or brass. At some point, I hope to acquire a spec dimension sheet for this locomotive---and it may be applicable to the GP38-3 and GP40-3 cabs as well---for any prospective modelers interested in scratchbuilding or kitbashing one. It may also help those who are involved with simulators and skins. Below is a gallery of----for lack of a better word---snippets--of the SD40-3 that may be of interest and could possibly aid in making the model whether it be real or simulated.
West in Idaho
Below are random images from the "west end" of the SD40-3 rebuild program taken in Idaho during 2015. These images are from Pocatello which offers the vantage point of SD40-2s that have moved west from Huntington, WV across the country. The inverse is also possible with the passing of the metamorphosis of SD40-3s returning east to CSX rails. My gratitude to Ed Banks for contributing these images to share on this page.
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Three shades of CSX SD40-2s---YN2 #8031---powder blue primer #8133---YN3 # 8826. All images courtesy Ed Banks 2015
Excellent wide image of ten SD40-2s in different shades and heritages lined up at Pocatello, Idaho. Waiting for the final tow to Boise as SD40-2s before becoming the phoenix SD40-3s to rise from the ashes of the dead line. Image courtesy Ed Banks 2015
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Also at Pocatello, ID and fresh from Boise.....SD40-3s #4075 and #4076. Image courtesy Ed Banks 2015
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Two more fresh rebuilds from MPI---#4081 and #4289 at Pocatello, ID. Images courtesy Ed Banks 2015
A quartet of dead SD40-2s at the Union Pacific terminal at Pocatello. Four more SD40-3s will emerge from this group at Boise. Image courtesy Ed Banks 2016
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The 4300 series and flexi-coil trucks indicates these locomotives are of Conrail heritage. The #4386 is ex #8869 and the #4387 is ex #8884 from the CSX SD40-2 roster. Images courtesy Ed Banks 2016
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A pair of #4200 series rebuilds. Conrail lineage is also with the #4230 which was former CSX #8858. The #4296 will be listed with its lineage once confirmed. Images courtesy Ed Banks 2016
The #4388 is yet another of the former Conrail lineage series SD40-2s conversions. This is former CSXT #8879. Image courtesy Ed Banks 2016
Two units awaiting furtherance for the return to CSX. SD40-3s #4328 and #4237 at the Union Pacific terminal in Pocatello, ID. Image courtesy Ed Banks 2016
Different Look
For the 74th annual CSX Santa Train that operated between Shelbiana, KY and Kingsport, TN, SD40-3 #4384 was selected as the lead locomotive for the 2016 charity run. While in Shelby Yard prior to the departure, a sticker bearing the Clinchfield Railroad logo was applied to the nose to complement two other logos applied to each side of the cab. The nose decal was a group effort of Clinchfield employees that wished to add a personal and nostalgic touch to the locomotive. This, in effect, created the first CSX "heritage" unit---or semi-heritage one is tempted to say--- in the fleet. Unfortunately, since the application is not painted, this rendering will be temporary at best by either wear or removal. A nice touch no matter how long it may last.
Santa has returned to the Appalachians once again in 2016 as his namesake train pauses for a gift stop at Dante, VA during November. This was the 74th running of the annual Santa Train over the former Clinchfield Railroad. SD40-3 #4384 has been decorated with a Clinchfield logo on the nose as well as stickers on the cab sides. Image courtesy Tim Heckman
2017 Supplemental
As of this entry (March 2017), there have been no additions to the SD40-3 fleet since the spring of 2016 as the program was suspended. Huntington has continued with the four axle rebuilds, however. Another rebuild program commenced using the SD40-2s for conversion to SD33ECO models of which thirteen (13) were initially planned (roster numbers #1700-1712). Now that CSX is in a state of executive transition with reductions certain to follow, the continuance and/or pace of the rebuild programs remains to be seen.
GP38-3 and GP40-3
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Due largely to the upturn in business, CSXT has found itself with a power shortage and four axle units have been no exception. On one hand, it is a good problem to have---the booming traffic growth---but with the shortage of power it has been challenging to keep the freight moving whether it be on the mainline or from the yard to shipper. Leaser locomotives are being utilized to help alleviate the crunch short term but the long range solution is increasing the active number of four axle units through rebuild.
The GP38-2 and GP40-2 locomotives have been venerable power for almost four decades. The fact that many are still in service speaks for the reliability of the models; they have paid for themselves multiple times over both in CSX paint and the respective predecessors from which they came. But they are long in tooth and numbers of them are out of service needing major overhauls. Of course, some have been converted to road slugs in years past although the GP30 and GP35 models are predominant in that category. Embarking on a program that is concurrent with the SD40-3 rebuilds, the GP38-2 and GP40-2 will receive the same treatment as its SD40-2 cousin in phases that began early 2014.
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Wearing a coat of primer, the cab for the prototype GP40-3 #6500 is raised on a shop crane at the Huntington Shops. Image courtesy CSXT 2013
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An ongoing goal that was planned for this page was the addition of subsequent GP38-3 and GP40-3 models as they would make appearances where accessible. Unfortunately, CSXT operational changes in 2015---notably the closing of the Clinchfield as a through route---drastically affected this intent. The Clinchfield was formerly the pipeline for the Dash-3 models from Huntington moving south of which frequently found assignment for Charlotte trains. Since this is no longer in effect, the appearance of these rebuilds has diminished.
The first five production GP38-3s (excluding the prototype #2000) numbered #2001-#2005 pictured prior to departure to Cincinnati for inaugural service. Image courtesy CSXT Huntington Shop 2014
Geep Timeline
Winter 2014: First prototypes are built---GP38-3 #2000 and GP40-3 #6500. Tested in local service between Huntington and Russell, KY.
August 2014: Five GP38-3s released for use and testing in revenue service in Cincinnati area. Initial assignments of Q558 (Cincinnati-Lima) and Q559 (Lima-Cincinnati) Additional units will consist of two GP40-3s and 20 GP38-3s constructed by EMD. The Huntington Shops will build 45 GP40-3s in 2015
December 2014: As of this month, 19 GP38-3s (#2000-2018) and 11 GP40-3s (#6500-6510). All are in either the Huntington, Louisville, or Nashville Divisions.
Spring 2015: Units--especially the GP40-3--began to migrate into other CSXT divisions. Several have moved into the Baltimore Division and in May, the Florence Division saw its first four axle rebuilds.
August 2014: Five GP38-3s released for use and testing in revenue service in Cincinnati area. Initial assignments of Q558 (Cincinnati-Lima) and Q559 (Lima-Cincinnati) Additional units will consist of two GP40-3s and 20 GP38-3s constructed by EMD. The Huntington Shops will build 45 GP40-3s in 2015
December 2014: As of this month, 19 GP38-3s (#2000-2018) and 11 GP40-3s (#6500-6510). All are in either the Huntington, Louisville, or Nashville Divisions.
Spring 2015: Units--especially the GP40-3--began to migrate into other CSXT divisions. Several have moved into the Baltimore Division and in May, the Florence Division saw its first four axle rebuilds.
Fall 2015: GP38-3 now up to #2035 and GP40-3 numbered to #6536
April 2016: Roster updates GP38-3 (2000-2046) GP40-3 (6500-6545)
July 2016: Roster updates GP38-3 (2000-2051) GP40-3 (6500-6549)
September 2016: Roster updates GP38-3 (2000-2056) GP40-3 (6500-6554)
December 2016: Roster updates GP38-3 (2000-2058) GP40-3 (6500-6557)
March 2017: Roster updates GP38-3 (2000-2063) GP40-3 (6500-6561)
July 2017: Roster status GP38-3 (2000-2063) GP40-3 (6500-6562)
A trio of Dash 3 geeps---GP38-3 #2036, GP40-3 #6521, and GP40-3 #6541 spot containers at the Charlotte intermodal ramp. Yard power typically spots these cars from the Port of Wilmington to the ramp during the early morning. Dan Robie 2020
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The same trio of Dash 3 geeps pictured at left. Departure from Pinoca Yard on a misty, overcast day. Dan Robie 2020
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gp38-3
GP38-3 Specs: 2000 Horsepower with a tractive effort of 55,400 lbs. Equipped with QNX software, digital video recorder, ERAD, air conditioned cab, remote control capability but not active at this date.
GP38-3 interior and sectional exterior views. All images Dan Robie 2019
A good look at GP38-3 #2000, the class unit, leading a local through Decatur, AL early in 2015. The new cab gives these models a husky appearance. Image courtesy Noah Chappell
GP38-3 #2017 leads CSX local M781 at Decatur, AL en route to Lewisburg, TN during the summer of 2016. Image courtesy Noah Chappell.
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GP38-3 #2024 runs in the consist of an eastbound train at Garrett, PA in the fall of 2015. Image courtesy of Sholto Thomas.
The #2003 is the filling in a Geep sandwich at Charlotte. Local en route to the West Industrial Park for switching duties. Dan Robie 2017
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GP38-3 #2003 makes it second tour of duty at Charlotte in July 2017. A humid evening finds it and a GP38-2 on the rip track at Pinoca Yard idling between shift changes. Dan Robie 2017
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Two views of GP38-3 #2026 at Charlotte in November 2018. On a work train earlier in the day, it had just completed spotting a cut of cars the intermodal ramp later in the afternoon. Dan Robie 2018
GP38-3 #2010 shares the RIP track at Pinoca Yard with a GP38-2 and SD40-2. The amber light on the cab roof is a telltale that the locomotive is equipped for remote control operation. Dan Robie 2019
GP38-3 #2012 basks in the evening sun on the RIP track at Charlotte with several GP38-2s and GP40-2s coupled directly behind it. Local crews as a general rule like these units calling them "Cadillacs". Dan Robie 2019
The #2010 enjoyed its stay in Charlotte so much last year that it decided to return. Paired with a GP40-2, it runs the main line past empty cars at the intermodal terminal on its return from switching 84 Lumber. Dan Robie 2020
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GP38-3 #2006 is the meat in the sandwich as a trio of EMDs switch the Charlotte ramp. Flanking it are an SD40-3 and an SD40-2, respectively. Dan Robie 2020
GP38-3 #2006 is mated with a GP40-2 and GP38-2 as a trio working Pinoca Yard. Early morning switching will soon be underway as the set builds its train for departure to the West Industrial Park. Dan Robie 2020
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Soft light of early morning and a reflective water pool make a good combination. GP38-3 #2036 and mates exit Charlotte Pinoca Yard on a local switching job. Dan Robie 2020
Evening backlight makes for a tough photo but sometimes you play the hand that is dealt. GP38-3 #2023 works a cut of tan cars at the South Charleston, WV terminal. Dan Robie 2021
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GP38-3 # 2024 is the center cut of three Geeps on the outer tracks at Pinoca Yard in Charlotte. Teamed with the #2024 is GP38-2 # 2769 and GP40-2 #6490. Dan Robie 2021
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GP38-3 #2030 sits on the ready track at Pinoca Yard on a sunny January day. Another Dash 3 Geep is directly behind in the form of GP40-3 #6562. Dan Robie 2023
gp40-3
GP40-3 Specs: 3000 Horsepower with a tractive effort of 54,750 lbs.Equipped with QNX software, digital video recorder, ERAD, air conditioned cab, remote control capability but not active at this date.
GP40-3 interior and sectional exterior views. All images Dan Robie 2015
Three quarter view of GP40-3 #6501 on ready track at Pinoca Yard in Charlotte. Dan Robie 2015
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Head on view of the #6501. Note amber lights for use in remote controlled operation (RCO) although locomotive not set up for that operation yet as of this time. Dan Robie 2015
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Two views of the #6500 on the rip track at Pinoca Yard. As the first GP40 series rebuild at Huntington, this locomotive is the class unit on the GP40-3 roster. Both images Dan Robie 2019
GP40-3 #6543 receives a bath courtesy of Mother Nature as rain falls from a cloudburst. Idling on the rip track behind the Pinoca Yard office at Charlotte. Dan Robie 2020
GP40-3 #6541 is one of the trio of Dash 3 geeps exiting Pinoca Yard on a December morning. The #6521 is visible as the middle unit in the consist. Dan Robie 2020
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GP40-3 #6553 shoves a brace of center beam flatcars on the main at Charlotte. Cars were picked up at 84 Lumber. Dan Robie 2021
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Passing the Charlotte Block Company on the main line is the #6537 with three loaded centerbeam cars destined for 84 Lumber. Not much traffic on the main through here in recent years. Dan Robie 2021
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Tied down at the Charlotte intermodal ramp adjacent to Pinoca Yard on a quiet blue afternoon. The #6553 is paired with GP40-2 #6410 and slug awaiting a crew. Dan Robie 2021
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GP40-3 #6527 basks in the morning sun with a combination of GP40-2 and GP38-2 models. On the ready track at Pinoca Yard for the day of work ahead. Dan Robie 2022
GP40-3 #6540 awaits a crew at the South Charleston, WV terminal on an overcast summer day. Other four axle power is visible including a GATX leaser. Dan Robie 2022
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The evening sun basks the #6562 and other four axle units on the ready track at Charlotte's Pinoca Yard. This power will go out on the second shift locals operating in the immediate Charlotte vicinity. Dan Robie 2022
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Sharing track P01 at Pinoca Yard in Charlotte with GP40-2 models is the #6556. The Dash 3 models have become favorable staples in local service during the past few years. Dan Robie 2023
2018 Supplemental
There appear to be no further additions to the GP38-3 or GP40-3 rosters since early last year (2017). Considering the multitude of changes that have transpired in the past year at CSX--in this case, referencing locomotive rebuilds--it is no surprise that the program is idle. With the number of locomotives now placed in storage throughout the system, a continuance of rebuilds would be counter to the philosophy of the new management regime. If there is a resumption of the program, this page will be updated.
Locomotive Lineage
As these locomotive rebuild programs continue, I have received requests to include a roster of the models with the former lineages and numbers. For any interested, there are sites on the web that record locomotive ancestries. Two recommendations are The Bull Sheet and The Diesel Shop. Both are typically prompt with updates.
Credits
Ed Banks
Noah Chappell
CSX Transportation (Locomotive Specs and employee input)
Tim Heckman
Matt Robie
Sholto Thomas
William Vandeveer
Special acknowledgement to Ed Banks for the Idaho images