Dominic Mazoch posted:I have seen UP 844 and 3985 do the speed limit along the Hardy Toll Road near Bush Airport.
I also have been a passenger behind AFT, then SP 4449 on two trips Houston to San Antonio. She was running well except for the climb just east of Schulenburg TX, about 100 miles west of Houston. She came down to a crawl!
Speed Limit? Do you happen to know what the speed limit is for them? I know here in the north east on the North East Corridor, steam isn't even allowed unassisted. Bennett Levin has run his '50s E8s on the NEC, but they are only certified for 90mph, where a modern commuter will top 100 in some sections between NYC and Trenton.
UP has published the will take the 844 to Memphis sometime in October. I am hoping they will publish her route and maybe even where they expect her hitting her speed limit. Unfortunately I am sure that modern regulations will prevent her from being allowed anywhere near her 100+ mph capability.
I personally am not old enough to have seen steam at full speed and I am not sure if I ever will. For the most part, I am glad we still have what we have. I live within earshot of 2 steam excursion lines but I think if they ever hit 20 mph, it's only because they are late...
Tony
