IRM gets a WC SD45 (and it still runs!)

[Lord Atmo]

i think they're running out of space over there too. that's never good

[EJE818]

They need to get a EJ&E engine once CN merges with them. There are no EJ&E diesels preserved, and only one steam engine.

[Lord Atmo]

they really need a CNW SD40-2 too. but this is a nice addition. a VERY nice addition. now we finally have plenty of SD45s preserved!

except for a CNW one.... 

[greyhounds]

OK, now they need to get RS1325 #30, which is still running and painted in its Chicago & Illinois Midland colors.

It is, after all, the Illinois Railroad Museum.

 

[EJE818]

I do have to agree with that. IRM has the first GP7 and SD7 built, the last Baldwin Centercab, the last operating E5, the only matching CNW commuter train I know of, and now, the last WC SD45 to ever operate on CN. That is the main reason I think it should stay in WC paint, and I am glad they are thinking the same way. I'll be heading up there Saturday to get some photos of it in its new home.

[dknelson]

The IRM was really one of the first railroad museum to recognize the "common" diesel locomotives were going to be worthy of museum preservation.   

Dave Nelson

[EJE818]

Yep, it is great that IRM recognizes the WC is just as classic of a railroad as the BN or ATSF. Just another reason why a trip to IRM is recommended.

[n012944]

Reposted from the Interchange at RyPN.org:

"CN has donated the very last operational Wisconsin Central SD-45,
#7525, to the Illinois Railway Museum, it arrived this afternoon.

It is currently visible on the "Mainline Webcam" at www.irm.org (at
least until the next switch move, possibly longer)

7525 will be preserved as a WC engine, and should be operational, and
in IRM passenger service, this coming summer, after some very minor
repairs."