By the mid-1960s, EMD's General Purpose locomotives, known as "Geeps," had gained a favorable reputation with railroads. They were hard working road switchers known for their versatility and dependability. The 1500-h.p. GP-7, introduced in 1949, had set the standard for the series of locomotives, and the GP-40, which came along 16 years later, was to be yet another improvement in the GP family tree.
The GP-40 doubled the horsepower rating of the GP-7 and introduced the 645-series engine to the Geep heritage. EMD had relied upon the 567-series prime mover for years. The 3,000-h.p. in the GP-40 was indeed impressive, but it presented a problem. With only four axles and the barely adequate wheel-slip control systems then available, GP-40s had adhesion problems. While the units were being fixed at the La Grange, IL, plant, EMD supplied GP-40 buyers with temporary units. An improved electrical system fixed the adhesion problem on the GP-40s and they were ready to roll on U.S., Canadian and Mexican railroads once again.
By choosing one of the finest diesel road engines available today, your M.T.H. GP-40 engine will arrive with features unmatched by others. The incredible sound and action found in a Proto-Soundr 2.0 equipped M.T.H. engine truly brings an interactive experience to your locomotive operations. Realistic, slow-speed operation is controlled through the industry-leading Proto-Speed ControlT system. Remotely controlled Proto-CouplersT which can be fired open at any time in conventional or command modes gives the operator unprecedented switching functions for a truly fun operating experience.
Did You Know? EMD overcame early adhesion problems and sold 2,398 of the popular GP-40 units.
