The Glade 4.0

Two of the most classic steam locomotives are undergoing programs to restore them to operation. First up: Union Pacific 4014, a Big Boy, the bigger borther of UP 3985, still operated by that railroad. I've linked a few videos of it.

official site

The Big Boy was probably the mightiest steam locomotive ever built, and was the largest by engine and tender combined weight. While other locomotive exceeded it in horsepower at speed, or tractive effort starting a train, no other locomotive could compete with it its ability to do both. The Big Boy could start a heavy train and take it uphill through the Utah Watsach range Rockies, then haul it through flatlands at speeds over 60 mph. Few other locomotives offered the same versatility. The Allegheny I own a model of in the GG&N thread was no slouch at 110,000 pounds of tractive effort, but the Big Boy easily beat it at 135,000 pounds. While the Allegheny could put out more horsepower at speed (almost 7,000) it was never used in flat lands where it could truly exert its biggest strength, and it had only 2 lead wheels to the Big Boy's 4. The Big Boy represents the ultimate in American steam power. Few, if any diesels could compete with it either; their advantages were in lower cost and simplicity.

Also note, that Union Pacific is the last Class I railroad never to totally dieselize, as UP #844 was never retired and still operates. When 4014 fires its boiler, UP will have 3 operating steam locomotives, all capable of pulling a train in revenue service if needed (although such a situation would most likely be an emergency)

Next up, Norfolk and Western's thoroughbred, #611.
Virginia Museum of Transportation

This one is being funded through donations,a nd when pay is forthcoming again, I will be donating.

#611 is a competitor for one of the most beautiful locomotives ever build, and if operating will stand aside SP #4449 as the two most dinstinguished-looking steam engines. Built to pull express passenger trains, #611 was capable of over 100mph pulling a train, and was run up until 1992 by Norfolk and Western, when legalities and insurance concerns ended their steam program. If they can meet their funding goal, #611 will participate in the Norfolk Southern (successor to N&W) 2014 season of 21st century steam. NS sponsors a number of operating steam engines over its rails and #611 will be a noble addition.

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