GE U34CH????????

[Allen Jenkins]

I was amused by the popularity of the U34CH, Atlas produced no less than two paint jobs, with several numbers. The model was a cinch, since the carbody was the same as the U36C, In fact, it is an "off the shelf" Utility, 3600HP, C-C(six axle), Head-End-Power re-geared freight locomotive drafted into passenger service. Back when these locomotives were manufactured, steam generators were still being installed into passenger units, and would have went into the space between the electrical cabinet and the filter compartment(like the U28/U30CG). I knew since the engine ran run8 most of the time, it, given twenty or thirty years, would sound terrific. Same as with the F40ph. The Pentrex Video "U-Boat Survivors", has a pair of U34CH Locomotives, repainted into their original colors, a special historical society fan trip respecting these locomotives, for which I'm glad to have around, complete with photo runby scenes, no less!EnJoy Your GE U34CH!

[Anonymous]

Dont like GE locomotives? How can you not like GE locomotives. These are my favorite. Anyway, i always admired the U34CH locos. Thy sounded great especialy when departing a station from a dead stop. With the engine constantly in the run 8 position to run the HEP generator it sounded awesome when the traction motors where engaged and the engine would load very quickly because it was already in the run8 position.
Sorry to ramble on like this but just talking about these engines brings back some of the best memories of my life.

[espeefoamer]

I was lucky enough to ride behind one,on vacation,between HobokenN.J.,and Suffern N.Y.[8D]

[Supermicha]

Thats not right! Septa leased 3 Units from NJT, one of them was repainted in Septa colors.

[Anonymous]

Nope. NJT was the only one with a fleet of 32.

[Anonymous]

Did any one have any U34CH expect NJT

DOGGY

[AntonioFP45]

It's great to read that there are some that do appreciate the old GE U-boats, even if it's a particular or an unusual one. The U34CH's were sharp looking hood unts.

Quite a few people on this forum, including railroad professionals, do not like GEs at all. Period. I can respect that. From a railfan's perspective, however, I've always like the body style and the loud "chugging" sounds that the U-boats made. They presented the image of hard working machines.

I was lucky enough to see one U34CH from the window of the Amtrak Silver Star as I journeyed back to Florida from New York back in the early 90s..

[Anonymous]

One has been saved for the NJ State transportation museam that is to be built someday. defently cool locomtives.
-justin

[Anonymous]

What ever happened to these magnificent locomotives? I know some went to Mexico but are any preserved? Also, if anyone has any pictures of these locomotives please post them if you dont mind.