Here is a 3rd Rail 4023 UP BRASS 4-8-8-4 Big Boy Steam Loco & Tender w/TMCC – 3 Rail #4023. This locomotive is a scale length model of UPs legendary 4-8-8-4 steam locomotives from 1941. The locomotive features a decorative bell, a smoke unit, metal side rods and metal wheels. The tender features an operating coupler, die-cast trucks, metal wheels and axles.

The Big Boy was originally designed to be a massive freight hauler packing a whopping 24 wheels on the locomotive and a massive 14-wheeled tender in tow. Designing and producing the 4-8-8-4 model was a daunting task initially with several challenges presenting themselves in production. Early upgrades would include a 25,000 gallon water tank, a 50,000 pound capacity for coal, and a whopping 135,375 pounds of tractive power! A reduction in wheel diameter from 69in to 68in would see an increase in traction, and in 1940 the decision to equip each unit with a larger firebox would be made as well. Later upgrades like an increase in boiler pressure would provide a massive boost for the Big Boy helping power the massive giant as it made its way down the Wasatch Range. The Big Boy would also feature an articulated design, and was hinged to handle the curves and twists of the Wasatch route. At top speed the Big Boy was clocked at 130km/hour (80 miles/hour), but would rarely hit such speeds, and would typically travel at 55mph. At its completion, each Big Boy would cost roughly $265,000, translating to just about $4.6 million per unit present day.

Upon their arrival from production, the 4-8-8-4 model would quickly garner attention for its massive size. Engineers and rail-yard workers alike were in awe of the colossus that was presented to them. For one ALCO employee, only one name fit for such massive engine. Wasting little time, the unnamed ALCO employee found a nearby piece of chalk and would write “Big Boy” on the #4000 engine’s smokebox door. The “Big Boy” name quickly became popular around the rail yard, before eventually going on to become the locomotives official moniker.

This item has been graded per TCA standards C-7: Excellent based on visual appearance. This item displays light scratches and paint imperfections across the body and underframe. The wheels show moderate signs of prior usage and wear. The overall appearance of this item may be improved with a gentle and thorough cleaning. User installed trim parts are included. The original box is included. The box is faded and has handwriting on the front face from the previous owner. The instruction manual is not included. Please check the photos for a detailed look at this item. Overall condition is Excellent.

Condition: Excellent (C-7)
Operational Status: Functional
Original Box: Yes (P-6)

Manufacturer: 3rd Rail
Model Number: 4023
Road Name: Union Pacific (UP)

Scale/Era: O Modern
Model Type: Steam Loco

The SKU for this item is 5883586.

Product Id: 11377943