The power generated by the main alternator drives six GE 752AG or 752AH Direct Current traction motors, each with a gear ratio of 83:20 and connected to 40-inch (1,016 mm) wheels which allow the Dash 8-40CW a maximum speed of 70 mph (110 km/h).

Since no four-axle versions of this unit were built, the "C" designation (indicating trucks with three powered axles, or C-C) is often omitted.

The units will be rebuilt with the Norfolk Southern-designed wide-nose RLS cab which meets current FRA crashworthiness standards.

The rebuild will also include the installation of locomotive speed limiter (LSL), and cab signals and other electronics upgrades.

The program consisted of 10 C40-8Ws from CSX, #'s 7771, 7774, 7799, 7801, 7807, 7811, 7786, 7787, 7779 & 7780, the units were rebuilt with updated prime movers, new cab interiors, new control system (upgrade to CCA from IFC), installation of PTC equipment, fresh repaint, body work as needed, addition of shutters to the radiator to help more accurately control the engine temperature, and a few other refurbs.