GE 80-ton switcher

GE 80-ton switcher
USA 1663 is a GE 80 Tonner at Fort Eustis, Virginia
Type and origin Power type Diesel-electric Builder GE Transportation Systems Model 80-ton switcher
Specifications Configuration: ​  • AAR B-B Gauge 4 ft 8+1⁄2 in (1,435 mm) Traction motors Four
Performance figures Power output 470 hp

The GE 80-ton switcher is a locomotive model built by GE Transportation Systems. It is classified as a B-B type locomotive. It was designed for industrial and light switching duties around railheads and ports.

Military version

Inside the cab of a military 80-ton switcher.

The military purchased 80-tonners between 1952 and 1953 for use switching railheads around Continental U.S. (CONTUS) military insulations. In the 1990s Rail Equipment Division at Tooele Army Depot rebuilt most 80-tonners to have Cummins turbo-charged 450 hp 6-cylinder engines. The rebuild included a small cosmetic change resulting in end radiator screens and dual headlights. This rebuild gave all Army and some Air Force 80-tonners a much longer lifespan. Approximately 27 Army and five Air Force 80-tonners are still in service present day. Navy 80-tonners did not undergo this rebuild. Many Navy engines were rebuilt by contracts with locomotive rehab companies.

Heritage Railways

At least two 80-tonner have been known to be in tourist service. These locomotives resided on the Virginia & Truckee Railroad. The D-1 was acquired in 2004 and was the mainstay of the fleet while the railroads 2-8-0 No. 29 & 2-6-2 No. 8 were being restored. Another 80-tonner, D-2, was only used in 2003, and its current disposition is unknown.

• 
  Oridinal 80-Ton with "chopped cab".
• 
  GE 80-Ton moving cars at the Fort Eustis Railhead.