EMD GP20

Infobox Locomotive
name=EMD GP20
powertype=Diesel-electric

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caption=ATSF 3055 in San Bernardino, California
builder=General Motors Electro-Motive Division (EMD)
gauge=RailGauge|ussg
aarwheels=B-B
buildmodel=GP20
builddate=November 1959 – April 1962
primemover=EMD 567D2
cylindercount=16
poweroutput=2000 hp (1.5 MW)
totalproduction=260
locale=United States
An EMD GP20 is a 4-axle diesel locomotive built by General Motors Electro-Motive Division between November 1959 and April 1962. Power was provided by an EMD 567D2 16-cylinder turbocharged engine which generated 2000 horsepower (1.5 MW).

260 examples of this locomotive model were built for American railroads.

Units built for the Great Northern were equipped with high short hoods and set up to run long-hood forward. Western Pacific received ten GP20s with high noses and dual cab controls.

While the EMD SD24 with six axles was producing 2400 Hp with an engine of the same displacement, the four axle GP20 was limited to 2000 Hp by the capabilities of the traction motors of the time. In appearance the locomotive was similar to a late version GP9 or GP18 but with the two exhaust stacks over the engine replaced by a single stack forward over the exit of the turbocharger, in common with later turbocharged locomotives. An identification detail of the GP20 is the small radiator fan added ahead of the large aft fan.

EMD was initially hesitant to turbocharge their 567-series diesel engine, but was spurred on to do so following successful tests made by Union Pacific in the form of their "Omaha GP20" units.

Current owners of GP20s include the Toledo, Peoria and Western Railway (TP&W) and the New York, Susquehanna and Western Railway (NYSW). The Susquehanna's GP20s numbered 2062, 2064 and 2066 came from the Toledo, Peoria and Western Railway and are ex Santa Fe units. The very first GP20 built, Western Pacific Railroad 2001, is preserved at the Western Pacific Railroad Museum at Portola, CA.

References

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