RDG Co. EMD GP35, Class RSE-14, #3640
Background & History
#3640, built in 1964, was the last locomotive rebuilt in the Reading Locomotive Shops before their takeover by Conrail in 1976. It was in the largest group of second generation units operated by the Reading. This group of 37 units was built using components salvaged and rebuilt from older F3 and F7 model locomotives traded in to the builder.
The GP35 locomotives were used on all parts of the Reading, in all types of assignments, including emergency passenger service. #3640 is unique for being the only GP35 repainted into the railroad’s last paint scheme of solid bright green with safety striping and a number on the roof of the cab. The unit was also the last to be overhauled in the Reading Locomotive Shop while it was operated by the Reading railroad.
When Conrail assumed operations of the Reading in April of 1976, the large group of ex-Reading GP35’s kept their original numbers. The units were scattered about Conrail and assigned various duties. While Conrail made plans to rebuild their many GP35’s, only one was actually done. Many were traded in on new locomotives or scrapped (click here for the disposition of these units*). #3640 was stored out of service at Conway Yard near Pittsburgh for several years, then donated to our organization in September of 1994. This locomotive was started for testing in 2001 and as of 2003 is operational. We hope to have it painted in the solid green scheme in the near future. For updated photos of #3640’s progress (as of 2007), click here.
Restoration
Archival Photos
EMD GP35 Specifications (as-built): | |||
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Builder: | Electro-Motive Division, LaGrange, IL | Engine model: | 16V-567D3 |
Date built: | ? | Type: | 2-stroke diesel |
Builder’s #: | 29573 | Aspiration: | Mechanically-assisted turbocharger |
Horsepower: | 2500 | Cylinders: | 16 (Vee) |
Top speed: | 71 m.p.h. | Bore x Stroke: | 8.5" x 10" |
Weight: | 262,130 lbs. | Displacement: | 9,072 c.i. |
Tractive effort: | 65,532 lbs. | Idle Speed: | 315 r.p.m. |
Length: | 56' 2" | Max. speed: | 900 r.p.m. |
Fuel: | 2,600 gallons | Transmission: | DC generator, DC traction motor |
Lube oil: | 275 gallons | Brake system: | 26-L |
Water: | 275 gallons | Braking: | Air and dynamic |
Notes: | |
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*(info courtesy Josh Musser, Reading Railroad Page) | (last updated: 4/03) |