Worlds largest steam locomotive is back! Big Boy 4014 hits the main line

They said it couldn't be done. It was too heavy, too long, it burned too much fuel, and would cost too much to restore. But they were wrong. Union Pacific, Big Boy #4014, now holds the title of the Worlds largest operating steam locomotive. This locomotive underwent a frame up rebuild and is now better than new. This was a big day for the #4014. It was the first time it was taken out of the yard and onto the main line.
Since this was a break in run the locomotive is not working very much at all. Just a bit of throttle to keep the pistons lubricated. The locomotive made frequent stops to check bearings and rods for overheating. As expected there was some minor issues including leaking packing from both front cylinder rods. However this is a fairly easy fix. No major problems were reported.
We see the locomotive leave the East end of the Cheyenne yard as a freight train passes. Then the locomotive stops at the West end of the yard to lubricated the side rods. Then it leaves Cheyenne and makes another stop near Speer, Wyoming.
The darkness did not deter many rail fans as there was a large gathering at Carr, Colorado where the locomotive stopped for inspection and lubrication. There was a train in the siding that lit up the Big Boy with it's lights, and many cars turned on their lights as well. Running hours late and arriving at Nunn, Colorado at nearly 11:00 PM. The crew dedicated they have had enough for the day, and scrap plans for running to Greely, Colorado. They pull into a siding where several trains pass the Big Boy, and then head back to Cheyenne.

[@travelingtom923]

For those asking about the diesel locomotive. The diesel locomotive is doing no work. It is only there as a back up locomotive in case of a mechanical breakdown. The lines through Cheyenne are the main arteries of the Union Pacific Railroad. Any breakdown could result in delaying the 100 plus daily trains that travel through this area leading to millions of dollars in lost revenue. The Big Boy is fully capable of pulling mile long trains with out any help.

[@Isochest]

So the diesel is a "Belt and Braces" insurance policy. It's probably there due to the fears of the bean counters as steam locos can lose efficiency but rarely fail.

[@adavazquez3378]

Thank for explaining, i love that beast 4014

[@gittyupalice96]

They do the same thing in my state on the east coast. I've seen sometimes 3 or 4 engines

[@jackrepass7642]

What a sound!!!!

[@ianwallace16]

There is nothing to rival the raw power of a big steam locomotive.👌

[@mikeredenius425]

I can't believe that a Big Boy locomotive has been resurrected in my life-time. Hats off to the Cheyenne steam crew and "Uncle Pete" as a whole to committing to, funding, and following through on the restoration of #4014! Another piece of history brought back to life for those of us born after the steam-era ended and in which we can catch a fleeting glimpse of another era.

[@Garwulf74]

I believe that a steam engine is the closest Man will ever come to creating Life from Steel and Iron. They Breathe....they Eat and Drink...they each have "personalities" and you have to get to "know" them. Pure Poetry in Motion!!

[@georgeorwell4534]

Garwulf74 my thoughts exactly. A steam locomotive *lives*.

[@darthstanley166]

You are so right. They are amazing.

[@matthewwilson5019]

I couldn't agree more with you

[@Romans--bo7br]

Garwulf74...... A Very well "Articulated" description!! : )

[@daleburrell6273]

THAT'S VERY WELL STATED-!!!

[@stuartwesthall]

I'm from the UK and I'd like to think that I'm just as proud of the people who created this achievement as any American. Absolutely amazing!

[@justahillbilly7777]

@Ben Chuft What in the world do you mean by “the Green Weenie”? The official holder of the title of world’s fastest steam locomotive is London and Northeastern Railway (LNER) A4 class 4-6-2 number 4468 “Mallard”, which is indeed a British locomotive, but it hasn’t been green probably since it entered into preservation after being retired by British Railways, the nationalized successor to the LNER and the three other “Big Four” railway companies.

[@voraciousreader3341]

@@justahillbilly7777 I have to say that, even though I’m an American and am thrilled about the Big Boy’s restoration, I got totally choked up to see the Flying Scotsman get back on the tracks after being restored and was able to hit 100MPH! And I’m not even a huge rail fan….I just like steam engines, for some reason!

[@TesserId]

Well, I happen to be an American who sees Science and Engineering achievements as human achievements. And, this period of industrialization is one in which there was much partnership between our countries. So, I gladly and proudly stand by you in this.

[@richardlowe1094]

As a volunteer at a steam railway in the UK, i think this is the most beautiful piece of machinery ever constructed. Congratulations to the team.

[@JL-zn6uu]

It’s pretty amazing to hear how quiet the big boy is compared to the diesel locomotive. Something to be said for these old iron giants. Waited my whole life to see this, what a dream come true. Awesome video, a big thanks from Canada

[@travelingtom923]

It won't be quiet once it opens up the throttle and lets go. On this run it was just getting pushed by the diesel. The Big Boy hasn't sung just yet. Will sound just like the Challenger in this video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/aIq4qHiuftNnpLs

[@JL-zn6uu]

I was just referring to what I was hearing in this video. Having seen just about every piece of Historical footage I could get my hands on, this way or “full throttle” steam is far more pleasing to my ears than a diesel electric.

[@jdrok5026]

@@JL-zn6uu straight pipe a emd your ears will bleed

[@chucklantz8290]

I was born and raised in and near Oakland, California. I grew up listening to the steam locomotives, day and especially late at night, at the Oakland terminals. Not many sounds are as soothing and reassuring to a young kid as a steam locomotive and whistle in the middle of the night. When they switched to diesel, I never could get used to those damned air horns. As others have mentioned, often, ... steam locomotives are as close to being a living organism as any machine can be. As Garwulf74 put it so nicely; .."They Breathe, and Eat, and Drink." ... and they talk to us and to each other, too.

[@conniemaros]

Chuck Lantz Love your sincerity.

[@pacificcoastpiper3949]

Beautifully worded my friend

[@Gail1Marie]

I remember when my parents and I spent the night in Duluth when I was four. We heard the locomotives pulling iron ore trains up and down from the harbor; occasionally they'd lose traction and the drive wheels would slip. One of my earliest memories.

[@juanjosemartindelcampogarc8945]

Absolutamente de acuerdo, la locomotora de vapor es como un fiel amigo al cual hay que cuidar, mi suegro fue maquinista de estas locomotoras acá en México y me cuentan que cuando salía de viaje se iba una hora antes de la salida del tren a revisar el personalmente su locomotora, limpiarla y consentirla, aunque los mecánicos fueran los que tenían que hacer ese trabajo.

[@johnnyraiderallison851]

WERE U ALSO AN OAKLAND RAIDERS FAN LIKE I AM? ALONG WITH BEING A STEAM TRAIN ENTHUSIAST!!!!!!!! GO RAIDERS/23 !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!😊😊😊😊😊

[@sim-sam]

Back in the days, when I was still a child, in our trainstation of the small village I grew up in switzerland, there was long black and white photograph of realy big Steam locomotive. And the person behind the counter, whom I ask, what it is said, thats BigBoy Steam locomotive, from america and that it is no longer made. Some 40 years later, I stumble up your vlog (and of course several others) of rebuilding and bringing it back to live. Great to see it in motion! Thanks a lot for putting your effort in this - and of course thanks to all of them guys and girls bringing it back to life and preserving it.

[@georgeorwell4534]

si Spring we share your excitement. It’s a dream come true for rail fans.

[@Bluswede]

I live about 1 1/2 hours drive from the rail museum in Green Bay WI, USA...and have visited the non-running Big Boy that rests there. You can compare the size of these locomotives to the people and other things in the video...but actually standing next to one and/or taking the surprisingly long walk around it will transport you to another time! Sure, there are environmentally cleaner, and much more efficient, ways of making 6,000 horsepower, but none more..."beautiful" is not quite the right word. "Beautiful" will have to do though, until I can conjure a word that expresses the emotions involved in seeing 4014 back on the steel. It is sad to see America suffering the illness that she currently has, so divided and fighting with herself. Today, I see Big Boy 4014 back slowly out of the shed and my spirit rises! The restoration of Big Boy 4014 shows that we still have good people here that can come together and build great things if they decide to. This locomotive did not just fall from the sky in 1941, fully assembled and ready to haul freight for the war effort to put down the evil that existed in the world during the late 1930s-early '40s! He was not designed on a computer and 3-D printed...he was built (and RE-built!) by hands as strong as, or stronger than, the steel and iron from which he is made! Thank you, Union Pacific, for preserving this machine so current and future generations can see him! And for you, Big Boy, sound that lovely, "Basso Profundo", whistle of yours...and pull America back out of the switch yard onto the high steel!!!

[@cestmoi1262]

@@Bluswede Very well said and heartfelt! My favorite engine on my HO layout is the Maerklin Big Boy (out of 50 engines of all types). 18 inches long in HO. It is just awesome. I have other steam engines that are less than half the length of the coal tender. Seeing pictures of the Grand Canyon is great but nothing beats seeing it in person. I believe the same holds true for actually seeing Big Boy.

[@wales2k4747]

The beast has awoken from its slumber.

[@elbabysnail4135]

awakened

[@A_Bit_of_Thought]

@@elbabysnail4135 Say it any way you want to!

[@aimee2014]

Yes beautiful well put

[@hypexd5973]

Its designed for the apocalypse

[@zackattack7489]

That was literally what I was gonna say but then I read your comment I was like nope I’m gonna go get copyrighted

[@GKHaller]

It's like hearing and reading about dinosaurs your whole life, and then one day they resurrect one. This is my Jurassic Park

[@ARC9652]

Hell yeah

[@nuthineatholl6434]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/onLGhpaGr9xlgNk ( ಠ ͜ʖಠ)

[@adambreckenridge3741]

@@ARC9652 funny thats what i was about to say

[@charlesshivoder2887]

Hello from Pennsylvania. As a holder of Union Pacific stock, I’m glad to see my corporation spend some of its public relations budget on something so historically significant as the preservation of this operating piece of American history. Great decision. Thank you UP. And thanks for a fine video made under adverse conditions. Well done. CAS

[@trespire]

Couldn't agree with you more. This is part of American heritage, should be recognized as such.

[@erikgstewart]

Hi, fellow stock holder! I agree, this is a great PR-strategy of UP.

[@cr10001]

@Commentor1 Which part of 'public relations budget' did you not understand? If you can stop all large companies from lobbying and advertising you might have a point.

[@dfgjhdj]

as i understand it, a lot of the labor was volunteered; up provided the space, tools, and money to get parts fabricated. since history is part of this, the next projects i'd like to see would be a couple of smaller engines, a 4-6-2 and/or a 2-6-2. the big mallet types were built for special purpose lines; to beat steep grades. the pacific and atlantic types, though, were the backbone of passenger and freight service all across the country for decades.

[@Victorted]

@Commentor1 What a small and sad thought.

[@mikeloghry9521]

I FINALLY GOT TO SEE AND HEAR. IN MY 67 YEARS OLD. I OFTEN WONDERED WHAT IT WAS REALLY LIKE. I THANK GOD. I GOT TO LIVE LONG ENOUGH TO EXPERIENCE IT.

[@carlstclair9920]

Me too, I loved seeing it at West Chicago,my dad was right.he said it is one hell of a giant.

[@j.m.5995]

Hang in there Pal there might yet be more machines resurrected

[@driver8339]

How was it sir? What did you feel?

[@BabuBabu-dh7ud]

@@j.m.5995 TF

[@scrambledmandible]

And thus a new generation of steamheads will be born

[@Aporter54]

I remember seeing a Big Boy by the side of the road as we drove by in the 1960s, and how darned impressive it was. I always loved that engine. Just a few months ago, I bought a Lionel "O" Gauge model of one, and have it displayed behind me as I type this comment. Truly a monument to a bygone era of railroading!

[@pacificcoastpiper3949]

Bygone my rear knuckle!!!

[@cmdrw0lf708]

I mean as a youngster from the 2000 Its still impressive

[@mocharger06]

My girlfriend got me an Athearn Genesis UP Big Boy for Christmas. Even in smaller than prototypical size, it's a work of art.

[@michaelnaisbitt1639]

I just can’t thank Union Pacific enough for giving back to the world the most magnificent steam locomotive ever built. Long may the ground tremble under its enormous power and might. 🚂🚂🇦🇺🇦🇺❤️❤️😁😁😁😁🎸🎸🎸

[@KCDash4400cw]

U put Australian flag fyi

[@infodeathmatch]

crazy Tony Channel Channel Kek

[@michellesliwa1120]

hey, are you a drummer by any chance ?

[@infodeathmatch]

Michelle Sliwa Who?

[@harrybabb1769]

Standing near a crossing feeling his rumble and hearing his wheels going around along with his whistle is the best

[@T8Hants]

As a UK steam railway volunteer, I am absolutely delighted for my American counterparts, you have a magnificent beast on your hands - wonderful.

[@bombasticbuster9340]

The UK had the steam speed record at one time. Great engineering came out of the British yards. I love watching your road steam trucks as well..

[@T8Hants]

@@bombasticbuster9340 I have always been very proud of the fact my Grandfather drove Sentinel steam wagons.

[@owensmith7530]

Bombastic Buster The UK still has the steam speed record for rail. Never taken away from Mallard.

[@jp-um2fr]

It was good to see the new Tornado do a ' ton. Wasn't on Welsh coal though, Polish I believe. I wonder what coal Big Boy uses ?

[@owensmith7530]

jp Big Boy fires on oil now, to avoid cinders setting the prairies on fire I believe.

[@F-Man]

This is truly magnificent. Arguably, this locomotive represented the ultimate “last hoorah” for steam, and now it’s back, simply by virtue of the hard work and donations of money and time by people who recognized that some things are truly worth saving.

[@zagan1]

Only back because there's 1 crane left able to lift half the body up.

[@Cookiecutter160]

Yes and while you watch this animals are becoming extinct amazing how we fool ourselves

[@sandyt4343]

Mark Westbrook I think that sometimes we forget that we can do more than two things at once. We can keep our only home planet alive for our kids and their kids and keep amazing things from our history alive for them to enjoy at the same time.

[@seavee2000]

Thank you to the person (or persons) that filmed this so that someone like me, +3000 miles away could see it. It must have been quite a sight!

[@travelingtom923]

You are welcome.

[@suedavenport7793]

Sean P such an absolute delight. Really cannot thank you enough. 69 yr old railway-loving lady

[@thunderbird1921]

@@travelingtom923 Love how at 12:00 that freight train crew saluted Big Boy with that horn sounding!

[@TomPauls007]

folks, this is one of the most awesome moments in rail history! so great to be alive to see this...

[@allenmarvetsthewildbuck3205]

I agree

[@CANControlGRAFFITI]

In person woulda been amazing

[@charlesbyrd1957]

Tom Pauls Happy for you Tom my grandpa was a railroad man after riding with Pershing in Mexico and France

[@1928Media]

It really is amazing. So much work and effort

[@millzym3381]

God bless every single one of the people who made this happen.

[@gamescentrel2951]

yup

[@LuiginoCisalpino]

He surely will

[@scrapwire1]

@Big Bill O'Reilly I believe he was expressing great appreciation for everyone that worked on or contributed in any way to this great locomotive being restored, I'm still trying to understand how his comment offended you, he didn't tell you to go to church, he didn't demand that you worship God, that is your freedom of choice to accept or reject God. If I have offended you with my comment, please don't be, I'm not offended by your way of thinking, I have made my choice.

[@scrapwire1]

@Big Bill O'Reilly The ultimate sin according to the Bible is to reject Jesus Christ as your Savior. The forgiveness of sins leading to eternal life is available as a free gift to everyone - but for those who refuse it, all that is left for them is judgment. God delays the Second Coming in hopes that no one will perish. All other sins can be forgiven, if they choose salvation and turn from sin. If someone turns from sin and accepts the free gift of salvation from Jesus, then follows the ten Commandments, Yes, they can go to heaven and live with all that is good for eternity.

[@ThreePhaseHigh]

Big Bill O'Reilly Wow everything we’re do I start!

[@michaelnaisbitt1590]

The king is back let the ground tremble in his presence This has to be the most magnificent loco built My undearing thanks to U P management for giving back the world a monster of a loco beloved by all

[@Mercmad]

I was a third generation railway worker.(not in the USA) grandfathers, my father, several uncles and cousins all worked on the rail and myself (Locomotive maintainer) . It's a bit Sad that both My Father and grandfathers have passed away long before Big boys rebirth. They would have loved to see him running again

[@janedoe5829]

Mercmad my great grandfather was a train engineer.

[@Fleetwoodjohn]

This is SO cool to watch. The sounds and the size! It has a personality. Thanks to all who worked on restoring this awesome piece of American history.

[@1963Franksworld]

Agreed, what a pleasure to see money spent on something other than wefare programs or infrastructure projects

[@Erzahler]

A diesel locomotive is merely a diesel locomotive. You've seen one, you've basically seen them all. Different models and manufacturers, perhaps, but nothing more than variations on a theme. But a steam locomotive is a living, breathing life force. Each one has its own personality, its own quirks, its own feelings. It is a living thing. It requires constant care and attention, but in return it gives faithful service. Every steam locomotive is distinct. No two are alike.

[@GLee-oe3op]

Erzahler UP’s 844 and 814 are alike. Same with SP 4449 and 4460 Just saying

[@Romans--bo7br]

@@GLee-oe3op.....Yes, they are alike in type/class but what he was saying is that even though may be of the same type (by wheel arrangement, etc, etc) - No two of them are/were Ever alike in their operating "personalities" if you will. Each one had it's peculiar handling traits and some responded well to certain engineers throttling abilities and some didn't, same with firing them.

[@jonathank1723]

My great grandfather actually worked on fabricating the original big boy boilers, very nice to see something he worked on working again

[@philvos4302]

Had the pleasure of seeing it running down the mainline a few miles from our home...MAGNIFICENT!!! Many thanks to those who made it possible!!!

[@jay600katana]

I can't wait until they get her fully broken in, hopefully some long freight trains are in her future. The UP Steam crew did a beautiful job, I'll bet she didn't look that good from the factory! Union Pacific management should be commended for their on going financial commitment to the heritage fleet. Thanks U.P for making every steam fans dream come true.

[@Nightdare]

@Josh Well, fuel efficiency wasn't that great either

[@jdrok5026]

@@Nightdare nor are diesel electrics great on fuel but they are better. Engines at high demand just love guzzling fuel.

[@Nightdare]

@@jdrok5026 Oddly enough, the M1 Abraham tank, actually has more fuel consumption running at idle

[@jdrok5026]

@@Nightdare turbines are way more efficient running at high rpms. That is the nature of engines because at idle you normally are running richer if I recall correctly. Well ices.

[@jdrok5026]

Diesel might be better at idle I would definitely need some time with measuring equipment but normally idle you fuel consumption is actually the worst it ever is while with piston engines this isnt as noticable due to the much slower rpms than a turbine. Actually I need to shut up because I might be incorrect on the science of a turbine ik normally peak torque is best for fuel consumption but I might need to take a second look in relation to industrial diesels at idle for relevant consumption metrics.

[@frederickwise5238]

They may post a thousand videos of diesel engines but THIS IS A LOCOMOTIVE!!!!!! I watched closely as the engineer backed 4014 up to the yellow auxiliary tender and he kissed it so gently the car never even jiggled at 2:26 - But when 8937 'jammed' into the cars he pushed them. This old B&O machinist has tears in his eyes, watching and listening. wish I could be there.

[@braymanj]

Never in my lifetime did I ever expect. I still can’t believe it.

[@knightsaberami01]

My Dad loved Trains, he always wanted to ride one, we were even making plans to catch the auto train in Lorton. This would've been right up his alley, I could us pacing this train, and getting vid of it.

[@joshuahenrichs9023]

It’s amazing to see the big boy alive and back on the main line but hearin that whistle just gives me goosebumps I’d be creepy to hear that whistle when it’s foggy

[@AndyFromBeaverton]

It would be creepy to see a million pounds of metal passing you on the highway going 70 mph while pulling a mile of loaded cars behind it. I never thought I'd see her run.

[@Navyguy1990]

Apparently her whistle is LOUD!! I’m a trucker and was in Cheyenne yesterday (I’m bummed that I missed seeing her today! 😕) and a guy on the CB said you could easily hear that whistle all over Cheyenne!! 😁

[@Romans--bo7br]

@@AndyFromBeaverton..... I would be very surprised if it sees over 60 mph. Although they were tested by ALCO and certified to safely run at 80 mph... the UP restricted them to 55 mph in actual service over their lifetime.

[@mindeloman]

That whistle might as well be the Liberty Bell sounding once again.

[@commodoresixfour7478]

It definitely helped bring liberty to a Europe in WWII!

[@ukrainiipyat]

Have had to replay it several times already.

[@travelingman484]

mindeloman Amen

[@DrVaults]

The king has risen however it's the same whistle as the 4449. Just the Hancock 3 chime.

[@hankrogers8431]

Magnificent.

[@jpooch00]

I can NOT believe you actually did it! God bless you all!

[@michaelgough6977]

Best video of Big Boy 4014 so far. Union Pacific did an amazing job restoring this locomotive.

[@highpointsights]

I appreciate the effort in this!! Did they restore it to full capacity? I mean the bores and the boiler?

[@rotunda57]

Purt sure it's running at original 300 lbs boiler pressure too.

[@rudycarlson8245]

@@highpointsights they did a full heavy overhaul!

[@tonerotonero1375]

The beast is back on track. A million thanks to the people who made that possible. This is a masterpiece of engineering heritage, now take good care of her and preserve her. Regards from France.

[@organbuilder272]

And regards to France, May that magnificent rock pile that stands, wounded though alive, The Lady Of Paris, be restored in all its glory once again. No less an achievement of the artistry and ingenuity of man, that beautiful edifice is a memorial that will live for centuries more.

[@daleburrell6273]

@@organbuilder272...YOU'RE DOGGONE RIGHT!!!

[@grbadalamenti]

This is so big that it ended on Italian newspapers too.

[@SimpleMechanic931]

Love that they added the “Big Boy” onto the front, just like one of the guys at Alco’s Schenectady plant did back in the 40’s.

[@STICKGUYMB]

Its so fitting, I wonder if a worker just snuck it on there

[@SimpleMechanic931]

I think just the locomotive (without the tender) is around 762,000 pounds and is slightly over 1,200,000 pounds with the tender attached.

[@ricomon35]

@@STICKGUYMB Ha!. No one sneaks a 381ton Loco... derp

[@mrdiplomat9018]

I’ll bet all the steel used to make it (including that great bell) came out of the ground around PA, right⁉️

[@EFCasual]

@@mrdiplomat9018 or West Virginia. It could have been from steel shipped on the great Lakes though, I've never heard about what transport was used in Schenectady back then.

[@danielsullivan958]

“It takes weight to move weight” Awesome to see this in action. Thank you.

[@xreconusmc3156]

Daniel Sullivan it took me nine months to rebuild the entire engine. Running weight is 542,758 pounds

[@SiCVoltage]

What an amazing flet getting Big Boy 4014 restored to working operations. I am so proud of Union.

[@Excelcior58]

So shiny and clean. It looks like a model!

[@organbuilder272]

Well try putting that "Model" on your 15 scale line in your back yard.

[@harriettedaisy2233]

1:1 scale.

[@timothyhanneman7715]

robert shaw o

[@dfgjhdj]

12 inches to the foot.

[@scottmcvittie2976]

At 76 I still remember steam locomotives belonging to the New York State Railroad running along the shoreline of Lake Ontario, and my home on Rock Beach Road in Rochester. As kids we would ride our bikes west with the train to Summerville where the train would cross the Genesee River on the "Ho-Jack" steam-driven swing bridge. Watching this majestic video and once again hearing the mournful cry of a steam-driven whistle is one of if not the best sight and sound I have ever heard. Thank you for recreating such a grand memory.

[@rixretros]

Thank you, UP, for ignoring the naysayers and bringing this old girl back to life !! ........and thank you, Tom, for a very good vid. It's not often that the world gets to view steam in action at night.....and having a well done night vid of the first run of the Big Boy is the cherry on the cake.

[@martinp3018]

Big vote of thanks to all the steam experts across the pond. This is some massive achievement. Never thought I would ever see one of these giants working in my lifetime.

[@brianorourke4880]

This made me cry. It has got to be the most beautiful machine in the world.

[@michaelcarrier4374]

If I could like your comment 10 times, I would.

[@bwyseymail]

@@michaelcarrier4374 Sorry, but for beautiful I'll have to go with NW-611

[@bowtieguy6870]

Couldn’t agree more. It absolutely is.

[@Cookiecutter160]

😂😂😂

[@CANControlGRAFFITI]

Brian ORourke I pooped.😓

[@npsit1]

What a gorgeous machine. And to think it was designed and built without the aid of computers. Just good old fashioned rulers and drafting tables.. Fantastic.

[@Romans--bo7br]

npsit..... you left out.... and people with brains who could actually Think for themselves and Think things through.... unlike today's "I'm entitled" generation (generally speaking).

[@nickelplatenerd6989]

Yeah, have you ever heard of the game "Pocket Trains" or have you heard of the Leader class locomotive? I thought to make steam electric locomotives using the leader class, and the design of the Pocket Trains steam locomotives. That ran on Charcoal, lump not the fancy round ones or grooved.

[@bwyseymail]

Yes it was and ran from 1941 to 1959. Interestingly the greatest plane ever built was designed in 1958-1958 using those same slide rules. The SR-71

[@mikebrzostowski8183]

I agree 100%. No computers, no CNC, just slide rules and drafting tables and brains. Damn, we sure used to kick ass and take names. God bless all those who built and now restored these wonderful machines. These steam engines are alive and doing well. Thanks soooo much to all.

[@TheNefastor]

@@Romans--bo7br today people build supersonic planes, self-driving cars and rockets that go into space and then come back to land on boats. Maybe pull your head out of your ass, not all geniuses lived during the Middle Ages.

[@MrFreshbreeze50EnjoyLife]

As trite as some may think, I feel blessed to have lived long enough to see a huge, working steam engine on the rails again, something I never thought possible. I can't explain it, but seeing 4014 come to life gives me a renewed feeling of life as if I was the engine itself.

[@gainsbourg66]

Me too

[@HughFromAlice]

If your a steam buff anywhere in the world then this is a BIG day!!!!! Congrats to all involved :-)

[@Rickster5176]

My life is complete. Thank you Union Pacific.

[@austintaylor7363]

@kevin Simala shut the fuck up Kevin.

[@davecrupel2817]

@kevin Simala read his comment. He got one. Now screw.

[@Admiralzzz_]

@kevin Simala shut the hell up Kevin, get a grip!

[@kevkoala]

@@Admiralzzz_ He's gripping his tic tac hard and squeezing the living piss out of it!

[@exogarwinoputt4257]

Kudos to the guys who restored this AWESOME thing. So glad to see it going again. Thank you!

[@sherrcon]

quote: The Big Boy locomotives weighed more than one million pounds and were 132 feet, 9 inches long. Stood on its end, one would be the equivalent of a 13-story building. Each one cost approximately $265,000 to build, or about $4.4 million in today’s money...what a magnificent sight that only an enthusiast would enjoy and appreciate...thanks for the video...

[@MarcABrown-tt1fp]

Why would UP restore 4014 if only enthusiasts would love it? What is there not to like about steam locomotives. They are a show every inch they go lol...

[@ma8rk]

Gotta politely disagree...it's sights (and sounds) like this that turn people into enthusiasts. But I do have to agree that seeing 4014 in action is truly magnificent. Watching this video actually made me a little homesick. I am Cheyenne born and raised, but have long since moved on. My dad ran the old Albany Bar across the street from the Cheyenne depot for some time when I was growing up in the 60's. I used to walk (and later drive) across the viaduct over the UP yards separating downtown from the south side, to visit my grandma. The beautiful old 2-lane Riner Viaduct has long since been replaced by the cold and uninspiring blue painted split overpasses you see in the video, and gone are the sweeping curved on and off ramps on the downtown side of the structure that ran from Capitol Av (s/b on-ramp) and Warren Av (n/b off-ramp), replaced by Depot Park and public parking lots. Much more efficient, in the case of the new 4-lane highway bridges, and "touristy" in the case of the park...but somehow without the character that once graced the downtown area. Neither feature fits in with the "old Cheyenne" renovations along Lincolnway, but that's progress I guess... Oh, and by the way...thanks UP! I'm not sure what the renovation of 4014 cost, but it's unquestionably worth every penny spent.

[@johntapp1650]

Count me as one of the enthusiastae.

[@sherrcon]

@@ma8rk/in my opinion, it's like anything else...people like different things...enthusiasm is a absorbing interest and may comes in different degrees depending on how much money one has...some like show cars, sports memorabilia, musical instruments, rocks, crocheting, certain breed of dogs/shows etc...some are so absorbed as to have beanie babies/figurines all over the house; now that's enthusiasm...and it's all good...but this big boy is just beautifully gorgeous...and on vacation, if there is a scenic train ride or a train museum nearby, we go visit...I have yet to go on that coastal run on the west coast...have a great week everyone...

[@AndyFromBeaverton]

BigBoy sounds like the toughest lion on the African plain announcing to all that "This is my house! Step aside!"

[@Ferndalien]

Big Boy's steam whistle certainly seems more expressive than the diesel-electric locomotive's air horn.

[@ddpeak1]

I think the Garrett’s ruled the African plaines

[@mastro4065]

AndyFromBeaverton ...yes..at 12:00 I expected that poor, “little” diesel train to jump the tracks OUT OF FEAR when approaching BigBoy!

[@janedoe5829]

It sounds like he's been smoking too many cigarettes for too long. Lol.

[@mastro4065]

Jane Doe ....yea...so now Big Boy has taken up vaping!

[@davidfmelbourne3473]

Truly remarkable effort by everyone involved in the rebuild. Thank goodness that such an important piece of railway history has not only been saved, but is operating as well.

[@dgltowing]

I cant wait to see this, and maybe even get an excursion ride. Truly making history again. Thank you UP, for raising this iron giant from the decay of time, and giving us a chance to experience the power, and thrill to watch one of these live.

[@sidnzrael2433]

Thank you Harry Dewiitt for your very versed words here, "raising this iron giant from the decay of time, and giving us a chance to experience the power, the thrill..." I could not have versed my thoughts as well.4014 was my big choice 'to see' when back in '89 we had a US trip.Grand Canyon came second...

[@mikeloghry9521]

AGREED

[@JosephStAmant-vm1cg]

It has a sister

[@adolphsniadowski671]

@@mikeloghry9521 ppl

[@MyWagga]

There are no superlatives to describe this locomotive - let it speak for itself and let that haunting whistle make an indelible memory in your soul.

[@sebastianthomsen2225]

I could not have put it better myself!

[@COO415]

Seeing Big Boy brought back to life is literally, traveling back in time. I have time travelled.

[@sski]

Thank you Union Pacific for reviving this leviathan of the rails! Majestic!

[@Angry.General1461]

That old steaming piece of junk is not running under its own power, it needs a diesel to help it!

[@kevinc8947]

@@Angry.General1461 Ahhh....no...it's protocol to have at least one backup locomotive in all trains in case of an engine/mechanical failure....BB is pulling all cars in these runs

[@matthewhburch6198]

@@Angry.General1461 Pretty sure that with the mass of the big boy, and the insane torque of low rpm steam, that Big Boy would drag any diesel train around effortlessly once it's been put all the way back in shape.

[@DUBMANS]

12:00 big boy be like. I can pull that by my self.

[@KoothOdok2]

I was thinking the same thing! lol (9 diesel's = 1 BigBoy)

[@Mr.AtheTriggerGalleon6310]

I know right,all by its self too.

[@AndyFromBeaverton]

I was waiting for a reply to the 'toot toot' with an earth shaking whistle.

with one leeg tied behind your back ! :-) LOLOL

[@maxm4375]

The big boys aren’t called the titans of the tracks for nothing

[@arifakyuz7673]

That is one huge piece of art! Really, the staggering scale and the mechanics of this thing should constitute it as an official art piece.

[@huemanatie4392]

What a magnificent hunk of machinery! That whistle, the heavy 'breathing' while it waits in repose. It's all good.

[@denisehunt6540]

Just beautiful. Thanks to the entire UP team for the effort and cost to bring 4014 back to life. It showcases incredible American manufacturing and engineering!

[@sly2392]

this is what the great americans could build. machines that can last forever, if taken care of properly. way to go guys great job. god bless all of you. WHAT A BEAUTIFUL MACHINE.

[@sly2392]

@@fredgarvin9262 you missed the point. at one time this was state of the art.

[@highlander723]

That whistle there's nothing like the sound of that whistle the modern-day diesel trains don't sound like that. The steam whistles we're deep menacing is like a beast roaring out announcing its presence you don't hear that from trains these days!!!

[@CommanderSky1]

I dont know about that. Most of em were high pitched

[@stangneshakon]

You do hear some great electric horns tho

[@neonthehybrid8047]

Its hard to not scream out along with it, its soooo good!

[@Gkuljian]

One night when I was in bed while going to college in San Luis Obispo, I heard a steam train whistle from a train going down the grade. It was so special to hear. That was around 1988.

[@Angry.General1461]

@@Gkuljian That old steaming piece of junk is not running under its own power, it needs a diesel to help it!

[@kukri8848]

me the entire video: PLEASE WHISTLE. PLEASE WHISTLE.

[@03svterminator64]

You and me both buddy!

[@erikallen3804]

Thank you for reviving this beautiful engine. A lot of people think just because we have Diesel engines that are faster, we should dump these in a volcano and watch them burn. Just because they’ve been replaced doesn’t mean we should just forget them. They started everything. God bless everyone who worked hard here!

[@railroad9000]

Love the "Big Boy" chalked on the smoke box front. Just like the first one! Great! So glad UP was able to restore her to operational status.

[@trainmanrobbie3360]

Bill rouleau I think this (4014) was the one that the guy originally wrote BIG BOY on!

[@railroad9000]

@@trainmanrobbie3360 More likely 4000, the first one.

[@CANControlGRAFFITI]

Bill rouleau that’s the start of graffiti. Praise him!

[@railroad9000]

@@CANControlGRAFFITI Ha Ha I guess it was!

[@jasondecristoforo4882]

It's a him.....hence "BIG BOY"

[@oliviamalerich462]

I’ve been keeping my eye on he restoration for the last few years. To finally see it operating is just amazing!

[@richardjohnson4373]

We need to thank who ever at UP decided that reviving this classic to life was good spent money. I agree with that decision. In this day of corporate greed it is good to see someone still feels history is just as important as profit. BEAUTIFUL!!!

[@thatoneguy611]

That’s why I think someone should restore a Union Pacific Gas Turbine-Electric locomotive back to operating condition.

[@ironmatic1]

It's not about history, it's about getting positive press for an otherwise perfect example of "corporate greed" as you say.

[@richardjohnson4373]

@@ironmatic1 I understand what your saying. Why not have it pull paying loads on the tour around the country that is not what they did it for. You are right but if the greed was that deeply rooted they would not have even attempted the idea let alone bring it to fruition if all that mattered was counting the beans. Yes all the press and show was to make a sales model to increase business and feed the bottom line. True it was a dog and pony They have to make money kind of the definition of capitalism.

[@michaelconnelly2994]

You have no idea of how excited I am to see one fully operational. Hope I can see 4014 in person !!! Thanks to all that rebuilt 4014 !

[@richardjones7035]

There are 7 or 8others around the country on display. Would love to see, ride & hear the #4014 barrel down one of those hills!

[@hans2406]

A diesel locomotive, an electric locomotive? It are just inate objects. A steam locomotive lives, breathes and it is alive. This giant is the ultimate steam locomotive. UP: Compliments for making the past live again! People who worked on it, thank you.

[@ulyssesgrant4324]

I think of diesels, and electric as living things

[@johannesslobbe6854]

@spam lite Oh dear. How sad. Never mind. In the western world we must become greenish, China in the next ten years or so, will build 1100+ new coal fired electricity plants. Very green indeed.

[@DesertTripper]

@spam lite Good God, do we have to politicize EVERYTHING? It's a fantastic restoration, not a return to the steam era.

[@daleburrell6273]

@spam lite SCREW HIM!!! ...THE DAM HYPOCRITE!!!

[@edithdavis2848]

She is beautiful. Now keep her that way. We need our heritage in view so the youngsters can see, hear and feel the power and grace that WE are capable of. To build some thing that LAST, and is Not thrown away. I watch a lot of JPvideos he loves trains and live near Scranton Pa. The train museum is marvelous there.

[@denfenrir520]

It's a boy

[@jetegtmeier71]

This is my wife and I's 11th anniversary and my what a gift this video is :)

[@stevenspaziani9159]

What a GREAT moment in Railroad history. Words just can not explain the joy I feel knowing a BIG BOY is alive again, I have loved the big boy since I was a kid and my dad bought me one in HO that I still have today.

[@The1trueDave]

I remember reading about these as a kid, great to see one back in action. I love the way it makes that Peterbilt look like a toy!

[@stilz0]

Absolutely amazing! The night time shoot was mesmerizing with the steam spewing like a fire breathing dragon. The lights created many colors and highlights of the massive Herculean! Praise to the people that accomplished this project!

[@planetwisconsin9901]

Wow wow wow wow! I cannot believe what I am seeing! Thank you Union Pacific! And thank you Traveling Tom! 😊

[@travelingtom923]

You are welcome.

[@machobunny1]

I never thought I'd see the day. WOW. I can recall the feeling of steam on my legs as a child watching these monsters chug away from the platform. It scared me then. Now...Awe is more like it. So happy someone cared enough to bring this magnificent machine back to life. THANK YOU.

[@eyecrunchyfraug]

Great to see her up and running. I still remember when my dad took me to see 4017 when I was 8 or 9 years old. I tell you, the video doesn't do a justice to how big this thing is. Makes me wonder how much ALCO and UP were asking if they could compared to if they should. Absolute unit.

[@wernerabel]

You've just done the best job in the world - thank you for restoring this magnificent steam locomotive.

[@dalewright3667]

I just love trains. As a young one, I had train sets, some plain oval some extraordinary with hundreds of track settings At 63 i get emotional , It brings back such great memories thanks for the posting I love trains!!

[@sunsetarts]

Skeptics. "It can't be done. It's too big, too expensive." UP, "Hold my beer and watch this."

[@TFD1982]

Absolutely amazing to see such machinery working in today’s age thank you Union Pacific for Restoring this lovely train!

[@WINCHANDLE]

Utterly astounding. I just hope kids these days will appreciate such amazing machines.

[@MarkusReese]

Absolutely fantastic! The restoration of this isn't just for us fans of classic steam engines, but really is an inspiration to a new generation. The mechanics, scale and visual of the original plus the years spent to bring the 4014 back to life alone is inspiring to got for it all. I have been planning a trip to the us this summer, but now I want to schedule it around seeing 4014. It is almost disappointing just saying the 4014. Surely there has to be somebody in the UP history, that one person who really gave their all to the preservation and restoration of not just this, but many other trains and pieces of our industrial history. Deserves an official name!

[@scottressler6632]

Thank you for sharing. Almost like being there, just need the smell.

[@brook8523]

Union Pacific knows how to run a big steam programme

[@FutureRailProductions]

Welcome back, old boy. Welcome back.

[@GuentherB.]

Congratulations and thanks to all those who got this machine up and running again. I am very impressed by the size of this locomotive. May it be preserved for a long time.

[@jameslowe3014]

One of the few man-made machines that had; a heart, a mouth, a stomach, a digestive system, a voice, a diaphragm, lungs, and a soul. The only thing it was missing, was a brain to control those. That's where the Engineer and the Fireman come into play.

[@BossmanEight]

When I was 10 or 11 my great-grandfather took me down to the switchyard to see the last steam locomotive that would ever pass through Plymouth, Indiana. (1960-61?). I vividly remember being amazed that the drive wheels were taller than my great-grandfather, who stood 6'-3" tall . . . . . without his every present fedora! Little did I understand what I was witnessing.

[@frankjandris6972]

The part of the video where it passes blowing its whistle at night just gives me the chills

[@natemartin5175]

I thought the same thing, especially if you didn't know they rebuilt it. You'd think it's a ghost train

[@janedoe5829]

frank jandris they always sound so haunting. Love it.

[@THEwb1812]

Fantastic I use to draw pictures of these 4-8-8-4s when I was a little kid. A freaking work of art for those of us who love these old steam engines!

[@psoon04286]

Never thought I’d be able to see and hear a “Big Boy” in this day and age. The UP team did a marvelous engineering job of restoring this railroad icon. Thanks for sharing this early glimpse video........great audio capture too👍👍👍

[@kenkee2011]

Never thought I’d see one under steam in my lifetime. Just fabulous! Great work UP!

[@daleburrell6273]

THAT'S EXACTLY HOW I FEEL-!!

[@keithlucas6260]

Rode on steam engines back in the day. Use to take the newer diesel electric from Los Angeles to Chicago back in the early 60's

[@stevenking9357]

Absolutely amazing is all I can say. Thanks to UP for breathing life into this forgotten beast.

[@GMCShazamataz]

Brings goose bumps all over watching this beast come back to life. Long Live BIG BOY. Well done to all those who worked on this beast. Thankyou.

[@genestatler2514]

Thank you for that great video. I have loved steam engine trains for as long as I can remember, and I'll be 86 next month.

[@tanishqsrivastava1816]

Happy 86th birthday

[@flakethefox9005]

I used to obsessed with this engine when I was little. Its amazing how big it really is.

[@boatymcboatface5195]

Big boy's First words: *"What'd I miss?"*

[@PS-nf3xw]

You were missed a lot

[@TMCCABE]

You missed a lot oh might king

[@Creeperboy099]

The restoration of 4501 and 630, the introduction of tier 4 diesels, Cat buying EMD, 844 getting a different whistle... etcetera LOL

[@CrimsonCutie]

Nothin much... Welcome back titan of the rails!

[@raymondbermudez5660]

screaming child The landing on the moon 🌙 For openers and the retirement of the centennial series of locomotives

[@gingerbread6614]

I will bet those engineers were in 7 th heaven.

[@indyrat500]

Yes. Some people get all the good toys!

[@kenhollom1669]

I bet those Engineers were thinking what a pain in the ass to run this thing.

[@brentboswell1294]

@@kenhollom1669 it's like driving an old car, you know it's harder to do, but we'll worth the effort. The UP steam engineers are all volunteers (fully qualified UP trainmen), but they volunteered to be in that position, including going through training for steam locomotive operations.

[@Romans--bo7br]

@@kenhollom1669.... NO, they were Not thinking that whatsoever.... and there is Only One engineer on the 4014 and that's Ed Dickens. There are a couple of others, Ted Schulte for one... but he wasn't even firing on the Break-in run in this video.

[@Romans--bo7br]

@@brentboswell1294..... it will be "interesting" to see if Ed ever lets anyone else put their hands on "his locomotive", at least out on the mainline... on tour.

[@michaelslamon386]

I love that big boy steam engine! Always great to see the old engines still running in service!

[@umann1557]

Hearing and seeing that brings tears to my eyes... I rode the steam trains in my younger years, before the diesel electric. To all who made this happen my hat is off to you one, and all.. I salute you ✨

[@Martin.H98]

My first meet with the Big Boy was in a book of engineering at groundschool at the library, and i fell in love haha this is amazing pice of machinery. Well done Union Pacific

[@davidm8914]

What a beauty!!! Never thought I would see a "Big Boy" operate again. Just sat here watching with my jaw dragging the floor....LOL.

[@williampatterson5125]

Been a Union Pacific rail fan had seen this outside in that yard in 91. Thanks to all that paid and helped to restore this beast bring it out to Pa soon