description GE AC4400CW Overview
The GE AC4400CW is a six-axle 4,400-horsepower diesel-electric freight locomotive with AC traction, produced by GE Transportation (now Wabtec) from 1993 to 2004. Over 2,500 units were built for North American Class I freight railroads, with the largest fleets operated by Union Pacific, BNSF Railway, CSX Transportation, and Canadian Pacific. The locomotive is powered by a 7FDL16 diesel engine driving GE's AC traction alternator and motors. It was succeeded in production by the Evolution Series ES44AC.
help GE AC4400CW FAQ
What does AC4400CW mean in the locomotive's name?
AC refers to AC traction motors, 4400 to its 4,400-horsepower rating, C to three powered axles per truck, and W to the wide safety cab. GE built the model as part of its Dash 9-era product family.
Which railroads bought the GE AC4400CW?
Major buyers included Union Pacific, CSX, Canadian Pacific, and Southern Pacific. BNSF has also operated AC4400CW-family locomotives obtained through predecessor fleets and later acquisitions.
Why was the AC4400CW popular for heavy freight?
AC traction gives strong low-speed adhesion, helping a six-axle locomotive start and control heavy coal, grain, and intermodal trains. Its 4,400-horsepower output also matched the standard high-power freight market of the 1990s.
How is an AC4400CW different from a Dash 9-44CW?
Both are 4,400-horsepower GE wide-cab locomotives with similar body styling, but the Dash 9 normally uses DC traction motors. The AC4400CW's AC traction equipment provides different adhesion and low-speed performance, which is particularly useful on heavy trains.
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