I think back in the 20's when this was a somewhat secondary mainline to Tacoma, when they first started getting the older Z's they ran them thru Stampede, only big loco that fit the bore. I recently bought the old CTC Board 3 issues about the Stampede Pass being built. Good info in them. I've seen pic's of the Milw's old N-class on the line, (and one on the ground!), among some of they're other locos. My BNSF buddy says it's only rebuilding it just enough to store centerbeam cars out there. There has always been cars stored out there till recently since the line was so bad and outta' gauge. The tie plates are so bad from the fifties out there that they are tinfoil thin from wear, and that's the ties that actually have some-1/3 of the rail is spiked straight to the ties!! 3/4 of the ties are rotted thru, cannot hold spikes! Love the history of the area out there!
As I recall, the Z3 was the largest that would fit safely through. Others would, but were so tight they could not be used, as any rocking at all, they would scrape the rock. That line down to Enumclaw was the original NP route to Tacoma. Through Buckley, Orting and to present day Meeker. That derailed MILW N is a well known photo.
I read where they tried a Z6 in Stampede-3" between the cab and the tunnel lining!! Too close for comfort!
I have a train order and article about one tunne test. I believe it was written by Jim Frederickson. Need to look.
