Welcome to 44Tonner.org, covering the restorations of three historic General Electric 44-tonner locomotives.
Designed to skirt a 1937 labor agreement that required extra crew members on any diesel locomotive 45 tons or heavier, the GE 44-tonner became one of the earliest symbols of the railroad industry’s widespread change from steam to diesel power. A total of 386 44-tonners were produced at GE’s Erie, Pennsylvania factory between September of 1940 and October of 1956. These diminutive center-cab locomotives were shipped worldwide, serving everywhere from the United States to Saudi Arabia. A disproportionately large number of 44-tonners, all now between 67 and 83 years old, survive today. Many are in museums, while some are still in active service for railroads or industries.
In early 2023, four non-profit organizations in the northeastern United States partnered to restore three 44-tonners to operation, using parts from a fourth “donor” locomotive and also performing some mechanical work on a fifth already-operating example. In the process, these groups gained and shared knowledge and experience integral to the maintenance and upkeep of these historic machines. This website will not only cover and promote the progress of these restoration projects, but provide resources for other organizations wishing to preserve their classic 44-tonners for future generations to enjoy.
