The GE 70-ton switcher is a 4-axle diesel-electric locomotive produced by General Electric between 1942 and 1958. Built at GE’s works in Erie, Pennsylvania, this locomotive was marketed by both GE and Alco from 1946 until their joint agreement ended in 1953. A total of 238 units were produced.
Classified as a B-B type locomotive, the GE 70-ton switcher was valued for its versatility and efficiency. The first series, delivered to the New York Central Railroad in November 1942, featured seven center-cab locomotives, which differed from later end-cab versions.
The locomotive’s capability to handle heavy loads and operate on light-capacity rails made it a favourite among short lines and industrial users though it also found use with several Class 1 railroads.
Barre & Chelsea Railroad
| No. | Built | Serial | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 | Jan 1947 | 28514 | Purchased new; sold to M&B as #21 (1/56) > B&ML as #53 (8/70) > disposition unknown |
| 13 | Sep 1947 | 29087 | Purchased new > traded to StJLC as #52 (12/55) > wrecked & rebuilt (6/56) > scrapped (9/74) |
| 14 | Sep 1947 | 29088 | Purchased new; sold to M&B as #22 (12/56) > preserved as B&C #14 |
| 15 | Mar 1948 | 29298 | Leased to STJ&LC as #47; sold to nee M&B as #20 (12/56) |
Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad
| No. | Built | Serial | Notes | Photographs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50 | Nov 1946 | 28567 | RRPA | |
| 51 | Nov 1946 | 28568 | RRPA | |
| 52 | 30846 | RRPA | ||
| 53 | Jan 1947 | 28514 | ex-Barre + Chelsea 12, ex-Montpelier & Barre 21 | RRPA |
| 54 | 30032 | ex-Berlin Mills 15 | RRPA |
Berlin Mills
| No. | Built | Serial | Notes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 | Dec 1948 | 30032 | to Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad as No. 54 | RR Picture Archives |
| 16 | Jan 1949 | 30033 | RR Picture Archives |
–
Montpelier & Barre
More Information
- Hayden, Bob. Model Railroader Cyclopedia Volume 2 Diesel Locomotives. Kalmbach Books, 1980, p. 50.