Box in front of GP38 dynamic brake?

Question

I've noticed of box like structure, in front of the dynamic brake section (if equipped) of GP/SD38-2 models, what is this for?

Notice it above of "S" in this photo: http://www.railpictures.net/viewphoto.php?id=219653&nseq=0

Answer 1

EMD locomotives that are equipped with extended range dynamic brakes have a square hatch on the front portion of the dynamic braking grid housing.

Engines with standard range dynamic braking did not have this hatch, it holds the shunting equipment for the extended range portion.

The locomotives I am familiar with are SD and GP 40's, their extended range doors look a bit different than the one in your photo so I cant say for certain.

Answer 2

Access hatch.

Answer 3

I guess I have to go with Hoghead on this one. I work for a short line, but interchange cars with CP every week. There's still quite a few old Soo locos in their yard. I never even noticed that squared raised portion on the hood before. I don't know why an access hatch would be located there. All the vital organs (supercharger, electronics, etcetera) are all somewhere else. Anyway, I'm not much help here.

Answer 4

Peter,

It looks to me like that is the access panel for the air intake filters for the diesel engine.