Trainmaster04 posted:breezinup posted:I had a chance to talk to Ed Dickens when I saw 4014 some months ago, and asked him about 3985. He said the UP brass told him they were only going to support two steam locomotives. They said 844, 3985, and 4014 - pick any two. (Things were leaning toward the 4014, however, for its great effect on public relations.) So 3985 was set aside. It was made clear, also, that 844 would always be maintained as an operational engine. I heard that a few of the 3985's parts had been cannabalized for 4014, but I don't know that for sure. Also, for now the 4014 is using her tender, as well. Ed said they were planning on building a new tender for 4014.
The cannibalizing of parts is true. Besides the big hint of the tender swap, 4014 also has the brake assembly off of 3985.
Plus the air pumps, the Elesco Exhaust Steam Injector components, the complete modern UP coded cab signal and former C&NW Automatic Train Control system, from 3985.
Also, I've heard the same thing about the tender except that it was going to be a total rebuild of 4014's original tender.
That probably will not happen, what with the budget cuts, and two members of the crew already furloughed.
For everyone: Personally, I have never been able to see 3985, since I was not born yet,
Really? You mean your were born AFTER 3985 was stuffed into the last stall of the Cheyenne roundhouse, in the winter of 2010/2011? Her last trip was through Kansas City, in October 2010.
but I am glad to see that most of you guys have been able to see her in operation. May her memory never die!
It sure won't with me! I was a contract Fireman for the UP Steam Crew, until the end of 2010 (about 17 years worth). I've got a lot of miles on 844 and 3985. Many, MANY great memories!
