Pacing The Southern Pacific 4449

This clip is all about pacing this beauty as she roars along the tracks in eastern Montana in July of 2009!

SP 4449 is currently undergoing her 15 year inspection at Oregon’s Rail Heritage Center owned by the City of Portland. After that is completed, she will be good for another 15 years of excursions and special events all across the country.

SP 4449 has 8 (80″ diameter) drivers that can apply 5,500 horse power!

This beautiful locomotive was originally placed into service in 1941. She is the only survivor of the Art Deco era of steam trains.

Back in her heyday, her runs included the coast route along the Pacific Ocean from Los Angeles to San Francisco and on to Portland, Oregon. Called the Southern Pacific “Daylight“, she could make this 470 mile run totally during daylight hours due to her ability to go 100 mph!

Quick Facts

• Rail Line: Southern Pacific
• Train Name: SP steam engine 4449 Northern Type
• Power type: 4-8-4 Steam Locomotive GS-4
• Builder: Lima Locomotive Works
• Maximum speed: 100 MPH
• Locomotive and tender weight: 870,000 lbs
• Nickname: The Coast Daylight – Los Angeles to San Francisco and Portland