Does anyone have new updated information on UP 3985 Status for 2013/14?
I would also like to know. I’ve been a little worried that 3985 will suffer as a result of the 4014 project. I’d hate to see this thing get so far on the back burner that it falls off the stove…
I agree. I am happy about the Big Boy projects, but the Challenger is a more useful excursion loco, able to go more places. Also, more esthetically pleasing to my (prejudiced?) eyes.
I heard on a forum that she may be back for 2016 season, but I don’t know how reliable that source is. With the 2019 anniversary coming up I also heard that they hope to have all three (844, 3985, 4014) running at that time. Again, I don’t know how creditable these sources are.
Dave, if that’s a prejudice, I share it.
Ima big boy freak & I admit the challengers are sleeker then the 4000s
[8D] yea but nothing can beat a good old fashion heavy hitter![8-|]
As I understand it, 3985 is undergoing its most extensive overhaul since 1957, the scope of the work exceeds what was required to restore it back in 1981.
Patience my friends, patience
Dave
[8D]having seen the old girl in KC, MO with my daughter when she was younger i am sure it will be done rigtgh or not at all.[bow]
The 3985 is currently undergoing her mandatory FRA inspection which takes place after 1472 service days or 15 years (which ever comes first). Since the FRA inspection process requires much of the locomotive to be disassembled, most people just do a complete overhaul during that time.
The work on the 3985 was around 75% complete around a year ago. But since the Big boy is getting restored, the majority of the resources will be put to that project and the 3985 will be put on the back burner.
Thomas, it seems odd, at the very least, to place 75% of the resources needed to restore the asset that is the Challengerinto its restoration, and then to stop that project so that another six year poject could commence. The Big Boy will not be ready until (maybe) 2019. It doesn’t make sense to tie up all that went into the Challenger until then, but to wait until the Big Boy is completed until finishing what they started on 3985.
Or, have I misunderstood your post?
-Crandell
[8D]Uncle PETE, the union pacific railroad has the premier steam restoration shop in the world. I would never second guess them.[bow]