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Re: (erielack) there is hope!

Actually, the GP39-2 is a 12-cylinder turbocharged model. The GP38-2 has a 
16-cyl normally aspirated prime mover; add a turbocharger and you have a 
GP40-2. It helps to remember that turbocharging augments hp by approx 50%. 
So for the GP39-2, you can calculate hp by starting with the 2000 hp GP38:
2000 x 12/16 x 1.5 = 2250 (it was actually rated at 2300 hp).

There isn't a whole lot of rationale for this configuration, which was 
introduced in 1968 as the GP39. The high-cost item is the turbo, which costs 
a lot more than the savings from the smaller prime mover, not to mention 
maintenance costs (especially if the turbo fails). In return, you get a 
small increment in hp and modest fuel savings. So as you would expect, the 
GP39-2 was vastly outsold by the GP38-2.

In addition to the buyers Bill mentions, the GP39 was acquired by C&O/B&O 
(20 units) and KCC (2); there may have been 1 or 2 others. The SD39 did a 
bit better, including the shorter, lighter SDL39 variant acquired by MILW 
for branchlines in Granger territory.

Paul B

From: "Bill K." <pontiac_@_dreamscape.com>
Subject: Re: (erielack) there is hope!

Sorry for the O/T.   A GP39-2 is basically a GP38-2 with a turbocharger,
which makes it good for about 2300 horsepower if I remember correctly.
About the only major differences in carbody to a GP38-2 for most is a
GP40-type brake hatch and GP-35 style radiator grilles.
 


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