Nostalgia & History > BN Denver Diesel Shop with Katy Visitor

Burlington Northern's Denver Diesel Shop was crowded with power on January 2, 1982. Katy SD40-2 626 was amongst the BN power. Note the old sanding structure above the power. Several units sport the yellow beacon that was common in the 1980's before ditch lights.

Rare, one of a kind, BN U30CB 4500 is under the sanding structure. GE power was the minority on EMD dominated BN roster.

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Thanks for sharing this moment in time with us. Nowadays, 23rd St. seems to be a ghost town, at least during my visits there. Do you have any closer photos of that BN 4500? Neat stuff.

Cheers,
Harry

No, I never did nail a good shot of the BN 4500. I didn't trepass on railroad property. I eventually was introduced to people that were very helpful and granted permission. However, not that day.

Yes, Denver Diesel Shop was cut back in the 1990's. Shop foreman Dallas Atkins had to oversee the downsizing. Then he took a buy out and left for another opportunity. Denver Diesel Shop only does light maintenance. Most power in this region is maintained at Alliance, NE, when needed.

From my BN files, 4500 @ K.C., MO 6-25-84 by Paul Wester.

Have to thank Paul for a great shot of a rare unit.

Keith

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Thanks for digging the BN 4500 out -- quite a rarity. Appreciate you finding it.

unit was cut up for scrap a PNC Mt. Vernon during the great U30C purge when the Oakways came onboard.

Regards
Q-GP30

A bit of trivia: BN 4500 was initially numbered 800-B for a short time after release from the shops. I think the only photo I've seen of it numbered as such was in Trains or Railfan & Railroad at the time.

Doug Stark

Thank you for the photo of the BN engine facility. I am shocked by how empty it has been lately.

Jim Barton

they were still working on freight cars   where the engines are parked tonight

they were still working on freight cars   where the engines are parked tonight and before that there were passenger cars there