Illinois Railway Museum Blog

Yes, It was an event beyond belief. It happened on September 12, 2020. What was it you ask? Well, the lonely steam loco cab of UP 428 was finally reinstalled on the engine body. After many years of viewing it on the floor of the steam shop it has now found its way back onto the locomotive. She finally has received her "hat" again. That's what I call it anyway. Now it looks like a steam engine again! Here are some pictures of the blessed event.

The cab is finally moving out of the steam shop.

Using the big lift to move it out of the shop.

Out in the open and in fresh air at last.

Its a tricky balancing act.

On top of all this activity, it was raining.

Its a tricky balance.

The high wire act. Its seems like its flying though the air.

Removing the years of old rusty steel pieces and renewing them with new parts, presented a few problems for the cab. At first, it didnt fit on the boiler but after a few adjustments down on the locomotive boiler it went. Now, its a first class fit.   

And a little adjusting here and there.

Looks good and it fits to everyones satisfaction.

The proud crew who made it happen that rainy Saturday in September 2020.

Tom Schneider, the curator, who many years ago thought the 428 would be a good steamer to operate at IRM.

Rich Thomas who led the restoration of the cab stands with his buddy, Tom.

If you want to see this 428 project finally steam again, please consider donating to the UP 428! Thanks, Roger.