The locomotive model designation is interpreted as follows: B (B type truck arrangement, 2 axles per truck) 40 (4000 horsepower) -8 (the generation when it was designed, in this case meaning the late 1980s) W (Widecab).

[citation needed] All of ATSF's B40-8Ws were passed on to BNSF Railway, with some later sold to other railroads.

[1] The rest of BNSF's B40-8W fleet is, as of 2019, undergoing rebuild and refreshment at GE as preparation for their new role as local freight units.

[2] On June 14, 2023, BNSF donated unit #537 to the Railroading Heritage of Midwest America in Silvis, Illinois.

[3] In October 2024, the locomotive was repainted back to its ATSF Warbonnet colors.