Athearn HO GP40-2L, Rail America/TP&W #4053

Athearn HO GP40-2L, Rail America/TP&W #4053 Overview

Purchased second hand from CN, these locomotives were given another life operating in the mid-west for TPW, painted in their corporate RailAmerica colors.

By the early 1970s, many first generation diesels were reaching the end of their service lives. One of the most common replacement locomotives became the GP40-2. EMD began production of the 16-cylinder, turbocharged, 3000 horsepower engine in 1972. These locomotives were developed for service where higher horsepower and faster service were preferable. A major feature for the GP40-2 was the introduction of the "dash 2" modular electrical cabinet. For more than 40 years, the GP40-2 has worked main line freights, locals, switching jobs, yard service, and helper service. Many remain in service today.