Yes and no, sort of. The NP's Z-4 class 2-8-8-2 Mallets were based on the USRA design, which was based on the N&W's Y-2. In fact, a designer from N&W was on the USRA design team. The post-WWI Y3 was a further improvement on the USRA/Y2 design.
This information comes from the Guide to North American Steam Locomotives, published by Trains magazine.
Originally Posted by Jim Rawlings:
I have seen opinions both denying and confirming that the Northern Pacific
ever had a Y-3 in its steam roster. Could one of you NP authorities confirm
one way or the other?
Thanks very much. Jim