281-299 Series

GP39/GP39M

Always looking for a deal, FGI purchased ten former RP39-2C commuter configured units from HELM Leasing (HLCX) in the mid 2000s. These units were part of a group of units rebuilt out of ex-CSX and its predecessor GP40s by MPI for Virginia Railway Express (VRE). As VRE upgraded its commuter locomotive fleet with Siemens Charger locomotives, these unit were sold to HELM who then sold them to Florida & Gulf Coat RR (FGC). These units had their Cummins genset HEP units removed and were reconfigured for freight road switcher service. The units were well maintained by VRE, and FGC sent the units through its Bay Line Shops in Panama City, FL upon purchase for freight conversion. Spotting features are the smaller fuel tank specified by VRE which helped reduce weight on some of the more precarious trackage on the AMRR side of the railroad.

The units were designated GP38M unit, though they were upgraded to Dash 2 specifications. Six units were assigned to the Georgia Southwestern Railroad and the remaining four were put in service on the Meridian & Bigbee Railroad.

Road NumberNumberof UnitsPaint schemeNotes
GSWR290-2956
Sunburst Standard SchemePurchased from HELM Leasing as former VRE commuter locomotives rebuilt form ex CSX GP40 units. MPI rebuilt the GP40 cores with 12 cylinder 645 primemovers and upgraded them to Dash Two standards
with addition of Cummings genset HEP powerplant in the rear long hood. FGC removed the genset and reconfigured units to GP39-2 specifications as model GP38.
MNBR296-2994Sunburst Standard SchemePurchased from HELM Leasing as former VRE commuter locomotives rebuilt form ex CSX GP40 units. MPI rebuilt the GP40 cores with 12 cylinder 645 primemovers and upgraded them to Dash Two standards
with addition of Cummings genset HEP powerplant in the rear long hood. FGC removed the genset and reconfigured units to GP39-2 specifications as model GP38.
BAYL 2811Sunburst Standard Scheme
FGC
282-289		9Sunburst Standard Scheme