What is the main "spotting feature" to look for on a GP35 to tell it apart form a GP38-2? I already know How to tell a GP38-2 from a GP40-2 from a GP15-1, but not a GP35.
The GP 35 has three fans. The difference between it and a GP40 is that the center fan is smaller than the 2 outside fans. On the GP 40 all the fans are the same size. That is a basic spotting feature. If you do not have a copy of Louis Marre's Frisco Diesel Power book I highly suggest you try to find one. It is my Frisco Bible for Diesel locomotives. Bob Wintle
Another major spotting difference between the GP35 and the GP38/38-2/40-2 is that the GP35 could usually be spotted in the maintenance shop! The turbocharged EMD 567 2500HP V-16 that was in the GP35 was taxed to its limit. GP35 maintenance problems were one main reason that EMD felt the need to move to the new 645 engine with the new line of 38/40/45 models. FYI, the Engineer's hood-side water level sight glass opening was only on the -2 (Dash-Two) models (GP38-2, GP40-2), and was not on the GP38 (or on the GP35). Ken
I just took a quick look at the MR Cyclopedia, Volume 2, Diesel Locomotives. Wheelbases (truck centerline to truck centerline) EMD GP35: 32.0 feet EMD GP38-2: 34.0 feet Ken