Big Boy Upgraded With Self-Contained PTC
Written by William C. Vantuono, Editor-in-Chief
Union Pacific photo.
The PTC (Positive Train Control) system on Union Pacific Big Boy 4014, the world’s largest operating steam locomotive, has been upgraded with a self-contained technology, which means the massive locomotive can operate independently in PTC-equipped territory without a diesel locomotive in tow.
The upgraded system’s components are now entirely housed within 4014 and its tender. The CDU (Cab Display Unit) remain in its present position. “This equipment used to be mounted and connected by hard wire to an accompanying diesel locomotive,” UP notes. The system has been tested and is ready for use on Big Boy’s upcoming 2024 Westward Bound Tour from Wyoming to California.” The four-week tour starts June 30 and includes Wyoming, Utah, Nevada, California and a short stretch of southeast Idaho.
“We are still going to travel with a diesel locomotive most of the time, saving wear and tear on Big Boy’s brakes and extending fuel and water, when needed, but this is going to give our Steam team greater flexibility to park the locomotive, switch the train or operate Big Boy solely as needed,” said Ed Dickens, Manager-Heritage Operations and Big Boy locomotive engineer. ““This new system has already made my life and the Steam team’s lives simpler, making it easier to plan and execute trips. We can now easily uncouple Big Boy from the diesel engine without worrying about moving hard wires.”
