EMD’s diesel-electric road switcher, the GP38-2, began production in 1972 as an upgraded model of the earlier GP38. Looking almost identical to its predecessor thanks to a standard body and cab design, the GP38-2 become widely successful on railroads across the country and can still be found in service today. Equipped with an Econami™ Soundtraxx® sound decoder and factory-set for GP38-2 realism, the diesel package offers a choice of 5 prime movers, 16 airhorns, multiple variations of 7 bell types, 2 air compressors, 3 couplers, plus a function-activated grade-crossing signal—all in 16-bit polyphonic sound. The Econami™ sound system includes adjustable auto-notching sensitivity for prototypical operation, adjustable master volume, individual sound effect volume levels, advanced consisting, and more.
 
Additional features include:
DCC sound-equipped with Econami™ Sound Value package
dual-mode NMRA-compliant decoder
directional headlights with Rule 17 dimming
precision motor
flywheel
die-cast frame
fine-scale handrails
separately applied detail parts
E-Z Mate® Mark II couplers, front and rear