UP 580 With Flanger At Colfax, 02/14/09

[@andersersand]

Thanks

[@andersersand]

I've always wondered. What is the metal thing on top of the cab of these GP38-2's? Maybe you will know. Great video! By the way, is that Amtrak #6 in the backround?

[@dutchtrainmanserie22]

Awesome video 5 stars!!!!!!

[@jakemiillephotography]

Great shot!

[@SF3751]

Thanks James, when are you ever going to get some? LOL.

[@SF3751]

Yes, Mark is right. Those are to knock any iceicle build-up off the top of tunnel entrances before a regular train comes through, and they damage the roof of the units or rolling stock.

[@SF3751]

That is called a "Flanger". 2 GP38-2's are usually assigned to 1 Flanger to work it up and down the mountain. The Flanger gets its name from the blades that are under the cars frame. The blades can be lowered and risen. When lowered, it throws snow either way from between the tracks. One blade is infront of the other, as one throws to the right and the other to the left. The blades can NOT be turned to face the other direction, so the entire car must be turned to go another direction.

[@johnrobertfox7775]

THE DEVICE ON THE ROOF OF THE LEAD LOCOMOTIVE IS CALLED AN ICICLE BREAKER BAR IN THE UP POSITIION ! WHEN NOT IN USE IT IS FOLDED DOWN ! ALSO THE LOCOMOTIVE IS EQUIPPED WITH A HORN HEATER AND ROTORY WINDSHIELD WIPERS !

[@SF3751]

And yes, that is Amtrak 6 (added a description you may now read also!)

[@SF3751]

Clearing the switch of snow. After the train passed over it the 2nd time, it drug snow over the switch. With this, the crew had to clear it off so they could throw the switch back.

[@elrodjones]

Pretty cool!

[@SF3751]

With these past couple storms up there, you should have just done Truckee for a day or something. UP runs a pilot Flanger in front of 5&6 each day. When I was up there, the Spreaders dodged my however.

[@SF3751]

They have always been there Mark! Why would they take them off? It wasn't only for Passenger domes cars back in the SP day...its for all mainline trains. You don't want some big ol thing of ice smashing a ES44AC's windsheild do you? lol