If you know something about trains, maybe you can answer this question...?

Question

Does anyone know if the Union Pacific railroad is in the process of restoring any of the 4000 class "Big Boy" locomotives to operation?

Answer 1

I wish they would but i don't think there are any plans to right now.There are only eight of them left all on display around the country.We have the 3985 Challenger class and the 844(aka 8444) Nothern class operating now.I was supposed to get a turn at the throttle of the 844 last time it came through but that honor went to a guy we had getting ready to retire.Sighhhh.Maybe next time.

Answer 2

I believe that they have two steamers operable; nos. 844 and 8444. One is a Challenger class. Don't know the other.

Answer 3

Good Q, not that I have heard but we can hope so.

None are in any condition that would make restoration an easy task.

If I had to make a guess I would guess that their Challenger is where they are going to stay.

I hope I am wrong though.

Answer 4

Hi Michael,

I heard that there is one either in restoration or near to starting restoration in Cheyenne, which is the usual home to the 844 and 3985.

There is some confusion about the number of the 844 (8444).  Originally, it was numbered 844.  But after being restored and placed into service, there was already another 844 (diesel electric) on the power roster, so it was renumbered for a while as the 8444.

It was carrying 8444 when I was fortunate enough to have been chosen as the fireman pilot (Bonnerman, firing the 3985, was a ********) for this engine and the Challenger in 1981, between Sparks, Nevada and Roseville, Ca., when they came west for the grand opening of the California State Railroad Museum in Sacramento.  What a thrill !!.

Sorry, Andy, but don't give up the ship...