Athearn Genesis HO GEN GP38-2 Locomotive w/DCC & Sound, SOO #4403

The Soo Line Railroad (SOO) operated a large fleet of EMD GP38-2 locomotives, acquiring them between 1977 and 1983 to serve as the backbone of its medium-horsepower freight and switching fleet. These versatile road switchers became a defining mechanical and visual presence across the Upper Midwest, where they earned a reputation for reliability and operational flexibility. The first GP38-2 was delivered in September 1977 as road number 790, later renumbered 4400. This initial group of ten locomotives featured the railroad’s distinctive red SOO lettering and marked the beginning of a major modernization program. Between 1978 and 1983, SOO expanded the fleet through additional production orders, ultimately rostering locomotives numbered 4400–4452. The fleet was further supplemented by GP38-2 locomotives acquired from Milwaukee Road (MILW) following its incorporation into the SOO. Later, SOO introduced its solid “candy apple red” paint scheme in 1989 to replace its classic white and red “hockey stick” scheme. SOO GP38-2 locomotives handled a wide variety of assignments, including branch line and local service, transfer runs, industrial switching, and yard operations.