UP 4014

4019 did for a few months after the end of WW2.

 

If the U is out of gauge I am sure this will fit just fine.

 

Ed Dickens
29 September at 03:09 ·
Question: What is the purpose of the Elephant Ears, Wind or Smoke Wings/Lifters?
My detailed answer:
UP designed wind or smoke wings, elephant ears etc were not designed to “lift smoke” per se. The concept is quite simple, they create a visual path between the plate and the smoke box that is clear(er) as the locomotive is drifting often times with unfavorable crosswinds on the vast openess of Wyoming and Nebraska. I have experienced this numerous times over the years particularly in cooler weather while drifting downgrade when the lower exhaust pressures in a drifting condition are inadequate to carry the smoke and steam vapor upward - it therefore will continuously wrap around and downward swirling around quite effectively obscuring the view of the engine crew.
As many people have likely observed over the past several years of operating the 4014, the smoke is carried high with sufficient exhaust pressure to carry the smoke upward - another handy use for that MU’d (Multiple Unit electrically connected and controlled from the cab of the 4014) dynamic brake as I’ve mentioned over the years, hold the train back and permit higher drifting throttle operation to give the fireman more exhaust to work with for both Elesco TP503 exhaust steam injector and on the UP 844 the wonderful Worthington SA - 5. Both of these feedwater devices utilize exhaust steam and the higher exhaust pressures result in improved operation while drifting.
As with everything that was designed and installed on the major classes of UP Steam, they were based on trial and testing, and they were there because they served an important function.
Additionally, these devices were typically applied to locomotives assigned to passenger service, while the Big Boys did pull such trains on several occasions over the years, they were simply too much power and too big (just like today, only use what we need to pull tonnage) for such service and were considered to be wasteful and therfore utilized where they could earn their keep pulling full freight tonnage.
So - enjoy this temporary addition while you can.
Thanks for reading.
Ed

 

Union Pacific Steam Club Update No. 42 - Jan. 8, 2026





We know everyone is super excited to learn more about the 2026 Steam Tour. The steam crew is hard at work planning as we pursue what is possible. Stay tuned for updates; as always, Steam Club members will be the FIRST to know when we have more information to share!


2026 Steam Merch is On Its Way!

New 2026 steam souvenirs are now available to pre-order from UnionPacificStore.com, with new products anticipated to be available for shipping in the coming days. Place your orders now to be ready when the Big Boy heads out to celebrate America's 250th birthday!

And don't forget to order your copy of the official 2026 Union Pacific calendar as well!


The Big 90

Check out the Niles 90-inch wheel lathe that our Union Pacific steam crew has been rebuilding at the Cheyenne Steam Shop. Intended to ensure that No. 844 "The Living Legend" and Big Boy No. 4014 can receive in-house maintenance, this massive piece of history represents the heart and soul of railroading. Union Pacific is proud of the hard work our Steam program does to keep our legacy running strong now and into the future.

Please enjoy these before-and-after photos showcasing the hard work and dedication that goes into preserving these iconic machines!








Remember Safety First!

At railroad crossings, ALWAYS expect a train on any track, at any time, in either direction. ALWAYS stay at least 25 feet back. Remember, NO TRESPASSING!

That's all for now. Stay safe everyone – 25 feet back from all railroad tracks! Always!

Union Pacific Steam Club