GP38 & GP40 Drawings

Model Railroader Prototype information for the modeler
1

Hello,

I’m looking for drawings of EMD GP38 or GP40 locomotives that show the dimensions of the locomotive. I’m thinking about kitbashing an Amtrak GP38-3 locomotive which they use for work trains. I’m not sure but the GP38-3 was built on a GP40 frame with some modifications. Where can I find these drawings if they exist?

Thanks,

Lamont

2

GP38’s and GP40’s use the same frame. The drawing of a GP40 in Kalmbach’s Our GM Scrapbook shows a length of 59’-2" from coupler face to coupler face, 55’-0" between pilot faces and 34’-0" truck centers. What other dimensions do you need?

3

The Carstens book of plans, Loco 1 - The Diesel, has an HO scale drawing of the GP40

Presumably that is the same drawing that appeared in the November 1966 issue of RMC. I do not have that issue. I do have the August 1967 RMC that has an HO drawing of the GP38.

Dave Nelson

4

Hello,

Thanks for replying. The other info I’m looking for is:

  1. Dimensions between the roof top fans & size of the fans.

  2. Dimensions from center line between axles.

  3. Dimension from top of rail to top of locomotive frame.

  4. Dimension f rom top of rail to top of locomotive (including fans).

  5. Dimension from coupler face to pilot.

  6. Dimension form top of rail to coupler face.

  7. Dimension from pilot to CL of Bolster

I think this will do. Thanks in advance.

5

  1. Approximately 3’-6". 48" dia.

  2. Trucks have a 9’ wheelbase

  3. 61 3/4"

  4. 15’-2 1/2"

  5. 25"

  6. Top of rail to centerline of coupler is 34"

  7. 10’-6"

You’re welcome.

6

Try http://trainiax.net/mescalelococontu.htm it has literally hunderds of diesel locomotive drawings, including several varieties of GP38’s and GP40’s