Well, Normally I would post a UP 3985 pic, but instead, I have somepics of UP 844 for the first time in years, steamed up! Right now, it's a 4-2-4 'Hawaiian' type--for the Hawaiian rebuilders UP contracted out to rebuild the old girl. It really is holding live steam, but the pics didn't show it.
Wow, that's interesting! I didn't know that they could support the frame with one set of drivers. What the heck has happened to the smoke lifters? Looks like someone used them for a punching bag. Thanks for posting those. If she is steamed up, that's great news, means all the firebox repairs and tubes and flues are done. Yeah!!!!
I heard there is some work needed to be done for her to hold full steam pressure, but the bulk of the work is completed. Yay! The other 3 drivers were 30 feet from the location I shot the broadside view, re-tired in Strasburg, PA. I think they just need a big crane to lift her up, and slide 'em under! I have more pics here: http://www.railimages.com/gallery/UP_Steam
I got a surprise in the mail this weekend. Jim Wrinn, of the North Carolina RR Museum fame, sent me slides he shot of the 2816/261 doubleheader in July. Since I was riding, I had limited access to photographing it. These two are departing St. Paul Union Depot (SPUD) on July 3rd. Thanks, Jim! Great view of the departure with St. Paul skyline in background. Zoomed in.
I believe it was five or so years ago at the Galesburg Railroad Days event. I think the super gloss finish on the pilot was just giving off strange reflections. Reminds me of Darth Vadar's helmet.
