Seen on the UPRR, July 2005: 3985, 844, and 6936, Part 1 of 2

The 2005 edition of the Denver Post Cheyenne Frontier Days Steam Special had some problems that transformed it into a unique opportunity for railfan photographers. It started out from Denver, CO, as planned, behind UP Challenger 3985 and the recently rebuilt Northern 844. But the 3985 was taken off the train at Fort Lupton due to mechanical problems, and the 844 handled it solo to LaSalle where three diesel units were added "just in case."

Category:

Autos & Vehicles

Tags:

• 844
• 3985
• 6936
• Challenger
• doubleheader
• locomotive
• railfan
• railroad
• railway
• steam
• train
• UP

[rattmamma]

2 people needs their butts kicked! My husband has been a locomotive engineer for over 40 years now. P.S. If you don't know anything about trains then STFU!

[gothpapa]

@rattmamma I know several people that need their butts kicked. Hell, I might even be one of them. Unfortunately, your comment is rather vague if not pointless. Would you mind being a little more specific so I will know whether I should agree with you or be offended? Thanks

[longhornandsouthern]

I really get tired of seeing nearly every steamer that runs nowadays followed up by a diesel (not even an old one, but a MODERN one). It ruins the view as far as I'm concerned. Besides, in their day steamers were capable of stopping just fine without help. Throwing on a ugly diesel in the consist is no substitute for an engineer who knows how to operate an air brake correctly.

[gothpapa]

@longhornandsouthern The reason tyhey do that is to have backup power instantly available in case thde steamer breaks down. All it would take to kill mainline steam operations would be for one breakdown that ties up the line fopr a few hours. Personally, I'd just as soon see the steamer running with a backup diesel than to see it sitting in a park somewhere.

[ricksclick]

What are the big side plates for on the front of 844?

[gothpapa]

@ricksclick Smoke deflectors, I believe.

[rattmamma]

2 people needs their butts kicked! My husband has been a locomotive engineer for over 40 years now.

[swaggastoega]

I love the 844

[longhornandsouthern]

@asdffggi The 844 and 3985 both run under their own steam.

[asdffggi]

is it realy drive of it sjelf or is it a engine after the 844?

[modeltrainman12345]

@mbtech2003 agreed

[844jim]

July of 2005 was when the two double-headed. Great video, thanks for posting!