GE U33B

GE U33B
Penn Central #2906 with a freight train in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in 1970.
Type and origin
Power typeDiesel-electric
BuilderGE Transportation Systems
ModelU33B
Build dateDecember 1966 – June 1970
Total produced137[1]
Specifications
Configuration:
 • AARB-B
Gauge4 ft 8+12 in (1,435 mm) standard gauge
Length60 ft 2 in (18.34 m)
Prime moverGE FDL-16[1]
Engine typeV16 diesel
Cylinders16
Performance figures
Maximum speed70 mph
Power output3,300 hp (2,500 kW)[1]

The GE U33B is a diesel-electric locomotive that was offered by GE between 1966 and 1970, featuring a 16-cylinder motor. It is part of the GE Universal Series It is 60 ft 2 in (18.34 m) long. From the U30B, the U33B gave an additional 300 horsepower to the traction motors. In doing so, a larger rear radiator assembly was required.  This "winged" look became a trademark of GE locomotives, and continues today under successor Wabtec Freight. The units were distinguished by their wider rear radiators, needed to support the higher horsepower output. It was dubbed the "U-Boat" at the time it was released.

Original owners

[edit]
Railroad Quantity Numbers Notes
Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad (Rock Island) 25 190-199, 285-299
New York Central Railroad 2 2858–2859 downrated to 3000 hp, to Penn Central, Conrail 2858-2859
Penn Central 81[1] 2890–2970 to Conrail 2890-2970
Seaboard Coast Line Railroad 29 1719–1747 Blomberg trucks

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b c d Trzoniec 2015, p. 85.

Bibliography

[edit]
  • Trzoniec, Stanley W. (2015). Vintage & Modern Diesel Locomotives: Prime Movers of America. Voyageur Press. ISBN 9780760348406 – via Google Books.
[edit]