A total of 145 examples of this model were manufactured from 1984.
 Its external appearance is almost the same as that of the later Dash 8-40B model, with the obvious exception of the trucks.

The first three Dash 8-39Bs were built for Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway (ATSF).
 A fourth example of the model, a GE demonstrator designated as a Dash 8-39BE (or B39-8E), was converted from the original Dash 8 prototype.

There were also two much larger groups of this model: 102 Dash 8-39BEs were fabricated for Locomotive Management Services (LMSX) and placed on long term lease to Burlington Northern Railroad.

The remaining 40 were built for the Southern Pacific Railroad.

Power output: 3,900 hp (2,910 kW)
A total of 145 examples of this model were manufactured from 1984.  Its external appearance is almost the same as that of the later Dash 8-40B model, with the obvious exception of the trucks.
The first three Dash 8-39Bs were built for Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway (ATSF).  A fourth example of the model, a GE demonstrator designated as a Dash 8-39BE (or B39-8E), was converted from the original Dash 8 prototype.
There were also two much larger groups of this model: 102 Dash 8-39BEs were fabricated for Locomotive Management Services (LMSX) and placed on long term lease to Burlington Northern Railroad.
The remaining 40 were built for the Southern Pacific Railroad.
Power output: 3,900 hp (2,910 kW)
GE Dash 8 Series