Wrinn: The End of the Beginning For UP 4014

Jim Wrinn, editor of Trains Magazine, puts a bow on the opening year of the UP Steam Big Boy era in his blog post. Despite the pains Precision Scheduled Railroading is causing UP, a public relations juggernaut in the shape of a 4-8-8-4 is affecting all who fall within its shadow. Who knows what the future holds for this mammoth goodwill ambassador? ⚒

Photo: BUFFIE

BNSF Heritage Hoppers

Heritage fleets just keep on getting bigger. This year, BNSF has finally gotten with the program and produced a half-hearted "heritage hopper" harem.


Photo by John Csoka

It's almost as if they looked at UP and NS and said, "Oh, alright. Here. But don't expect us to paint them snazzy colors or anything."

What? You mean like these?



Both photos by Keith Schmidt.

The models were created by MTH, but probably could be adapted by the prototypic Union Pacific. A look at some concepts from the model railroading world might just show us what's possible for BNSF to try, if they're ever so inclined. In particular, Lionel (yes, that Lionel, 3 rails and all) designed some passable heritage designs that would catch anyone's eye.

Burlington 1848

Burlington Northern 1970

Frisco 1876

Great Northern 1889

Northern Pacific 1870

Santa Fe 1996

Above 6 photos Lionel.com LLC. (Catalog)

As with Union Pacific, the road numbers of the locomotives signify a year. In this case, it's based on the year the railroad started (save Santa Fe), rather than the year they joined the system. While there are no prototypical or "real" engines for these models (at least, not yet), I have to admit that when the design is scaled up, they look pretty sharp. To wit:



Which is your favorite? What about a Colorado & Southern locomotive? Do you think UP should start painting heritage hoppers based on the success of the Heritage Fleet?◊

GEs Juice Train Sells More Than Tropicana

Here's a nifty little commercial that GE put together. You'd never think that they were selling locomotives. Suddenly, I have a craving for freshly juiced diesels.

Hello, Caterpillar? Nice paint job, but that's not enough. GE's PR puts EMD's image on ice.



Anyone else notice the nod the ad gives to railfans?

If you're a fan of the 80s show Knight Rider, you're in for a big treat as well. The 80's dreamed of a talking car. 30 years later, GE touts a talking train.


Again, EMD, where are you? Where's your ACe in the whole?◊