EMD SD38-2

The EMD SD38-2 is a six-axle road switcher diesel locomotive built by General Motors Electro-Motive Division (EMD) from 1972 to 1979. EMD built 90 of these medium road-switchers, which were used in both yard and mainline roles. Part of the EMD Dash 2 line, the SD38-2 was an upgraded SD38 with modular electronic control systems, HT-C trucks, and many other detail improvements. The locomotive's power was provided by an EMD 16-645E 16-cylinder engine, which could generate 2,000 horsepower (1,500 kilowatts). These units were constructed with either 3,200 or 4,000 US gal (12,000 or 15,000 L; 2,700 or 3,300 imp gal) fuel tanks and were available with or without dynamic brakes. It shared the same 64-foot-8-inch (19.71 m) frame as the SD40-2 and SD45-2, which gives it a length over couplers of 68 feet 10 inches (20.98 m).

EMD SD38-2
LLPX 2808 in February 2005
Type and origin Power type Diesel-electric Builder General Motors Electro-Motive Division (EMD) General Motors Diesel, Canada Build date 1972–1979 Total produced 90
Specifications Configuration: ​  • AAR C-C  • UIC Co′Co′ Gauge 4 ft 8 1⁄2 in (1,435 mm) standard gauge Wheel diameter 3 ft 4 in (1.016 m) Wheelbase    • Truck 13 ft 7 in (4.14 m) Pivot centres 43 ft 3.5 in (13.195 m) between bolsters; Width 10 ft 3 1⁄8 in (3.13 m) over handrail supports Height 15 ft 7 1⁄4 in (4.76 m) over cooling fan guard Loco weight 368,000 lb (167,000 kg) Fuel capacity 3,200 or 4,000 US gal (12,000 or 15,000 L; 2,700 or 3,300 imp gal) Prime mover EMD 16-645E Engine type Two-stroke diesel Aspiration Roots-blown Alternator AR10E1-D14 generator-alternator Traction motors 6 × D77/78 DC Cylinders V16
Performance figures Power output 2,000 hp (1,500 kW)
Career Locale North America, South America