HHAAPPPPYY NNEEWW YYEEAARR to all of our readers www.canadianrailwayobservations.com

(Visit our website on January 4th 2008 for a special report) CANADIAN NATIONAL

CN Retired since last issue:

CN SD40-2W’s 5292, 5297, 5312, on November 20th CN SD40-2 5371 on November 20th CN SD50F 5422, on November 20th GTW GP9r 4629 on November 21st CN SD40-2W 5311 on November 22nd CN SD40-2 5365 on November 22nd DMIR GP38AC 869, on November 29th GTW GP38`s 4995 and 4996 on November 29th CN SD40-2W`s 5309 and 5313 on November 29th DMIR SD40-3 417 on November 29th WC SD35(Q) 2500 (with a Q-Tron microprocessor), on November 30th< GTW GP38`s 4994 and 4998 on November 30th DMIR SD40-3 411 on December 1st CN SD40-2W`s 5306 and 5310 on December 3rd CN SD40-2 5364 on December 7th. BCOL RS18CAT 605 on December 17th BCOL RS3 405 on December 17th.

This photo shows GTW GP9r 4629 at Woodcrest November 4, 2007 and maybe the last photo of 4629 as an operating unit as it is currently parked in the storage lines with a bent frame, and as noted above, was officially was retired on November 21st. It was one only of a few GTW blue units that were sub-lettered GTW. http://csxchicago.gotdns.com:6003/CN_Trains/Roll72/0012315-R1-002-00A.jpg

Corrections to the CN retirement data received by CRO last month: CN GP9RM 7016, reported retired on September 8th was NOT retired. CN GP9RM 7070, reported retired on October 1st, was NOT retired, and CN GP9RM 7072 on October 1st was the actual Geep that was retired instead. As well, DMIR SD38AC 203 was retired on November 19th, and not October 2nd.

On December 1st only 13 WC 6900-series / GCFX 6000-series remained in service on CN. These are all SD40-3’s painted in the grey and orange GEC-Alsthom livery, with either WC or GCFX reporting marks. However, on December 23rd only two remain in service, one of each class. The last active GCFX 6051 unit on CN departed UP's Settegast Yard in Houston, TX December 22nd on the QHONL 21. The lead unit was UP 1988, the KATY . The other WC SD40-3 6902 was operating on a CN freight in Wisconsin. Now 48 of these rebuilt former CN SD40’s are out-of-service, and the entire fleet will be returned to the lessor on March 31. 2008. This image of WC SD40-3 6901 was taken on December 8th at IC Woodcrest Shop. This unit had been on the WC and now stored pending return to lessor. http://csxchicago.gotdns.com:6003/CN_Trains/Roll72/0012315-R1-074-35A.jpg

The UP unit reported above (UP heritage unit M-K-T 1988 which is the bright the red Katy unit) was on a Little Rock, Arkansas to M39891 on December 23rd, which would mark the first time any of the UP Hertage SD70ACe’s have been in In late November, stored CN MLW-built CN M636 2338 was moved to the CN Shop at MacMillan yard to remove some suspension bearings in the truck and traction motor assemblies as parts cannibalization for the CN DASH8-40CM`s which use the old MLW Dofasco C-C trucks. In 1990, many old trucks were swapped off some of the retired CN Big M`s and sent down to GE in Erie, PA. In a cost saving measure to use under their first GE cowled units. According to CN sources, CN has welded steel brackets in place and has for all intense and purposes made this classic Alco un-roadworthy. She is reported to have a slight lean now and unless she is loaded on a flat car she won't be going anywhere fast. CN M636 2338 was retired in operating condition at Pointe-St-Charles yard in the 1990`s, and was transferred to Toronto for long term storage. She was to be used in a pinch as a back up power source for the shop at Mac Yard, but was never needed. Photos: http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/2008/2338.htm

Some more shots of the CN Big M taken inside the Toronto shop: http://www.trainnet.org/cgi-bin/dcforum/dcboard.cgi?az=show_thre. &om=327&forum=DCForumID8&viewmode=all

At press time new deliveries of CN SD70M-2’s was up to about 40 of the 50 units on order and of the GE ES44DC’s, units 2255 – 2286 were on the property, leaving 24 still to be delivered. CN ES44DC 2282 was the lead unit on 101 by Stony Plain Mile 24 on the Edson Sub on December 17th. At press time CN 2286 was highest numbered GE-built unit in the 2255-2309 series to enter service in Canada so far.

Francois Jolin captured CN SD70M-2 8009 hitting the snow at L'Acadie QC, on December 15th on the CN Rouses Point subdivision. http://www.railpictures.net/viewphoto.php?id=215649&nseq=36

At Beaconsfield, Quebec on December 15th Michael Berry caught a westbound CN train with two of their newest classes of , the ES44DCs & the SD70M-2s. The consist was 2252 & 8836. http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/2008/mberr.jpg

HOUSTON LOCOMOTIVE GROUP, a scrapper from St. Lucie, Florida has begun scrapping some of the CN units at IC Woodcrest. The first units to be done were SAR C39-8’s 7482, 7484, 8606, BCOL RS18CAT 621, and DM&IR SD40-3 415.

Ken Lonovitch took this fine shot of CN E9Au 103 outside the Woodcrest Shop just prior to being tucked away for the Winter on December 5th, 2007. http://csxchicago.gotdns.com:6003/CN_Trains/Roll72/0012315-R1-060-28A

A You Tube video of the two CENTRAL E9Au`s on the move. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DTtgtEJ8w3M

In November, retired but operational CN units SAR B30-7 1012, and 1016 were sent to LARRY’S TRUCK ELECTRIC (LTEX) and were promptly renumbered LTEX 3000 and 3001 for their own service. In December five retired units were sold to LTEX: CN SW1200RS 7314, DMIR SD9M`s 301, 317, and WC SD40-2`s 6002 and 6003. Units 6002 and 6003 were being delivered directly to the WHEELING & LAKE ERIE, in Ohio for lease or for a sale. Here are photos of the DMIR SD9M, WC SD40-2 and CN SW1200RS: http://www.railpictures.net/viewphoto.php?id=163081&nseq=5 http://railfan.ca/cgi-bin/view.cgi?image=Scotch_Block_26.08.06_3337.jpg http://railphotos.herkamur.ca/xwiki/bin/view/Photos/00031-33?category=CN%20EMD%20SW1200RS&nbstart=0

CN has sold GP9RM 4000 to RAIL TRUST EQUIPMENT, in Social Circle, South Carolina.

The Surface Transportation Board of the U.S. issued its first decision on CN's application to purchase the EJ&E at www.stb.dot.gov STB ruled that CN - EJ&E is a "minor" transaction, meaning its decision would come by April, 2008. BUT, they also ruled that a full Environmental Impact Statement must be completed before they will give their final decision. This is because of the increased rail traffic through many communities along the EJ&E. STB states that this Environmental Impact Statement can take between 18 months and several years to complete. While there is a fast track on this initiative, the STB said that they will not give their final decision on the merger until after the environmental review is done.

In December, CN announced their intent to purchase the ATHABASKA NORTHERN RAILWAY for $25 million and will invest $135 million in upgrades over three years. While current traffic volumes are too low to keep it going as a stand-alone operation, CN will use the line in critical role with SUNCOR in one of the world's largest oil sands construction projects. CN had sold this 320km Northern Alberta branch line in the late 1980’s and prior to this announcement, ANY was making preparations to abandon the rail line. The trackage was originally part of the NORTHERN ALBERTA RAILWAY which was absorbed into CANADADIAN NATIONAL in January 1981.

ATHABASKA NORTHERN RAILWAY roster in 2007: ANY SD40 5232 (ex-CN 5232) ANY GP9RM 4004 (ex-CN 4113, 4390, nee-4147) ANY GP9RM 4005 (ex-CN 4103, nee-4295) ANY GP9RM 4006 (ex-4120, 4421, nee-1745). (Plus two leased SD40-2’s from NREX which are former CP units).

See CN-ANY map changes: http://www.cnrelease.com/ANY_en.jpg

Trevor Sokolan provided CRO a few of his shots of the ATHABASKA NORTHERN: (many thanks-ed) ANY GP9RM’s on a wooden trestle: http://www.pbase.com/tsokolan/image/90658928 ANY Shop at the Head Quarters in Lac La Biche: http://www.pbase.com/tsokolan/image/90752656 ANY SD40 is a former CN SD40. http://www.pbase.com/tsokolan/image/90752658 ANY GP9RM’s rolling into Boyle: http://www.pbase.com/tsokolan/image/90752663 ANY GP9RM’s dashing through the snow: http://www.pbase.com/image/90752888

In early December we had heard that CN was about to transfer 23 IC SD40’s and SD40-2’s to the DM&IR, and six SD40’s and SD40-2’s to the B&LE (Bessemer & Lake Erie), which would have eventually resulted in the retirement of the DM&IR and B&LE SD38’s, SD38AC’s and SD38-2’s, however as these units are not equipped with dynamic brakes, are are not suited for the DMIR, the transfer was halted.

CRO learned in December that CANAC had scrapped five CANAC-owned ex-CN units at Montreal’s Taschereau Yard earlier this year. The units are: CN GP9RM’s 7006, 7009, SW1200RSM 7313, CANX S13m’s 8706, and 8709. http://www.myrailfan.com/collection/CN/CN_7006/img.aspx?ID=CN_7006_LACHINE_1.jpg http://www.myrailfan.com/collection/CN/CN_7009/img.aspx?ID=CN_7009_LACHINE_3.jpg http://www.myrailfan.com/collection/CN/CN_7313/img.aspx?ID=CN_7313_LACHINE_1.jpg http://www.myrailfan.com/collection/CN/CN_8706/img.aspx?ID=CN_8706_LACHINE_1.jpg

BCOL SD40-2 763, wrecked in the logging truck accident reported last month In Northern BC, has now moved to IC Woodcrest for major repairs.

The unique Canadian only model road switcher, the GMD-1m is rapidly disappearing from Canada. Originally built as A-1-A trucked units for light rail operations, most were rebuilt in Montreal and re-trucked as B-B units, and have served throughout Canada on CN. The A-1- A earlier version served Alberta and on CN’s Vancouver Island lines for many years. Last month the final three A-1-A units, 1063, 1078, (Ex-NAR 301), and 1082 (ex-NAR 305), had been scrapped. There are only about 24 B-B trucked GMD1m’s remaining on CN and all are assigned to yrad service in Montreal, Winnipeg, Edmonton, and Vancouver. http://railphotos.herkamur.ca/xwiki/bin/view/Photos/02050-28?category=CN%20EMD%20GMD1&nbstart=0

CN is apparently considering reopening the Rainy River Terminal in Ontario. Officials were in the area looking at accommodations for possible crews who will be working at the terminal. There is no word yet on whether the rail system will reopen it, or if CNR will continue operating the out of Fort Frances. CN is considering since they have been having issues with the border at Ranier, Minn. They have had similar challenges at Symington yard in Winnipeg to Fort Frances where crews have to be switched. CN has had to pay taxis to pick up and deploy crew on the regular basis. Rainy River is apparently one of the few places where they have extended runs. It has been six years since the station has been opened and with any luck crews could begin working again as early as mid- August.

Several very recent images of CN freights taken in the Belleville, Ontario area taken by Ron Visockis including repainted CN DASH8-40CM 2434: http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/misc/cn2434.jpg http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/misc/cn4122.jpg http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/misc/cn5647.jpg http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/2008/via6427.jpg

On December 1st at Mile 122.03 Newmarket sub at Bracebridge, Ontario Colin Tytler clicked this beautiful image of CN A45031 in fresh snow with brand new CN SD70M-2 8847 and CN 8839 running back to back, and It was the first run for each locomotive! http://www.railpictures.net/viewphoto.php?id=213987&nseq=1

Here is an December 7th image from Walter Pfefferle showing a single CN SD70M-2 handling CN Train 332. http://railfan.thegrebs.com/CN/cn8815a

Ed Van Pelt clicked this image of CN SD70M-2 locomotives in Buffalo, NY on December 2, 2007. They show brand new CN 8800`s on CN train 339 entering the CSX North Yard in Buffalo. The brakeman is just about to throw the track switch. http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/2008/cn8827.jpg

CN SD40-2W 5289 was spotted in the dead lines at Woodcrest in December, but at press time, the unit has not been retired. Photos taken this year of CN 5289 running Stateside. http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=776152 http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=776794

CN ex-SAVAGE RAILGE`s (SAR 7482, 7484, and 8606), were scrapped at the Woodcrest Shop in Mid december. Ken Lonovitch photographed the trio on November 23, 2007. http://csxchicago.gotdns.com:6003/CN_Trains/Roll72/0012315-R1-044-20A.jpg

On November 23rd, CN train 148 became CN train 122 and CN 149 has become CN 123. Trains 148 and 149 will continue to run between Montreal et (for now); but the direct train to and from Halifax has been lost. On November 28th, CN began running new grain trains between Edmonton and Prince Rupert and vice versa. These new trains are symboled G888 and G889. G888 has replaced G834 and G854 out of Prince Rupert, while G889 will handle two trains worth of traffic out of Edmonton CN currently has about 6 or 7 symbols that terminate in Prince Rupert, so they are just combining two trains in Edmonton. These trains are long and heavy, so will be utilizing DPU..

On November 2nd CN Train 122 arrived in Halifax, NS with CN SD70M-2 8837 & bright future painted CSX DASH8-40CW 7765.

Joe Zika’s report: On December 7th, there was only a small group of units at Mac Yard including several new SD70M-2`s. One surprise was former BNSF GP9 1684 in the old ATSF blue and yellow warbonnet which is now owned by NRE. The loco is moving to NRE- Capreol for repairs. http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/2008/sf1684.jpg http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/2008/cn8814.jpg

On December 18th, Roman Litarchuk caught GTW GP38-2 6227 which is still in blue paint, led by CN Dash 8-40CM 2447 on CN Train 357, with 122 cars including 107 center-beams. http://tinyurl.com/2d246z

On November 1, CN and CP announced that they had reached an agreement on a routing plan to expedite their freight traffic at key points on both their systems. Under this protocol, the railways have established a structured plan to direct freight trains on each other’s lines through convenient interchange locations. Implementation of the plan is already well underway. The routing protocol will result in several changes that include fourteen gateways. Specific locations such as Montreal, Quebec (St-Luc), Winnipeg, Manitoba (Paddington) and Milwaukee, Wisconsin will see an increase in the amount of interline traffic. On the flip side, fifteen gateways that include Chicago, Minneapolis, Wisconsin, Calgary, Alberta and several southern Ontario locations, will see reduced volumes of interline traffic. CN has routing agreements with the six Class 1 railways, including this new agreement and CP has a similar agreement.

CN Photo Vignettes:

In a classic Montreal scene from a few years back, Canadian National M420W 3578 and a sister MLW lead a westbound freight at Dorval, Quebec on November 13, 1997.Photo by Jeff Lubchansky http://railpace.com/photogallery/new/0198-cn412.jpg

CN C630m’s roll through Bayview Junction to rail fans delight! (Arnold Moody photo) http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/2008/alcocn2030.jpg

Samuel Thibodeau provided these images showing the track reconfiguration work being done at Hervey Jct, in northern Quebec on the CN, this fall. http://www.samuelsphotos.fotopic.net

For the freight car buffs: In the early 1990`s, the Transcona Car Shop was called upon to come up with a unique articulated covered hopper car to use in place of retired 40`box cars for bulk loading. This car was an experimental cylindrical hopper built in 1993 and numbered CN 399000. It was one of two that were built with the other one numbered 398000 spending much of its life in storage. They are 55 feet long and ride on three 70 ton truck assemblies. Capacity is 4600 cu. ft with a unloaded weight of 76500 lbs and loaded capacity of 274500 lbs. and at last report were still in service. http://www.geocities.com/gexrpics4/4747R.jpg http://railfan.thegrebs.com/CN/399c http://railfan.thegrebs.com/CN/399b http://railfan.thegrebs.com/CN/399d

By any standards the CENTRAL RAILWAY was a class act. This photo by Arnold Mooney prooves this statement. http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/2008/cv4924.jpg CV “torpedo-Geep” GP9 4924 sits outside the St. Alban’s roundhouse on June 22nd, 1982. Note the "red" paint at the fuel fill is an added touch, as well as the EMD builder's plate carefully replaced over the yellow frame stripe. Even the roundhouse has some fresh paint around the doors and roof line. For an excellent photo resource for the CENTRAL VERMONT RAILWAY steam & roster: http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/locoList.aspx?id=CV

Last months Turbo Train photos provided lots of mail and images. My favourites were these two taken by Neil Compton in Brockville, Ontario in September 1970. It was very hard to shoot the turbo at speed without the photo being blurry …better to shoot it at a distance! CN fans will love the 40-foot ice reefer and RS18 and GP9’s in Brockville yard. http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/2008/turbo1.jpg http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/2008/turbo2.jpg

Here's a picture that has a lot more story to it when you are familiar with the area. Back in the mid 70s, CN ran its’ CNR Mountain Class U-1f 4-8-2 6060 affectionately known as “Bullet Nosed Betty”, to Niagara Falls and back to Toronto. Wednesdays and Saturdays in the summer. I think it ran from 1976 to 1978 before developing major boiler problems, and the Ontario Government wouldn't help foot the repairs. So Bullet Nose Betty ended up in Alberta We parked off to the north side in Bayview Junction as to keep the area clear for 6060 to rumble by. She always heads east, around the bay to Hamilton; the track on the right, and all of us got fooled on this day. CN 6060 actually ran up the Dundas sub!!!! She cleared our viewing area, stopped over the Hwy 403 and backed down once she got a light (dwarf signal) onto the Oakville sub once again and off she went on her regular route to the Falls. That is my 3rd car in this photo, the blue 1976 Cougar, the one that seemingly was going to run forever (1976-1993) and racked up 481,000 miles. I can't tell who is standing in the photo. Kevin, thats the walkbridge in the background...... History made this day, the only time CN 6060 ever set foot on the Dundas sub during her excursion years. She is reversing in this photo. Haven't found the date, but the slide was marked August 1978. Thanks to Arnold Mooney. http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/2008/am1.jpg

In 1954, CANADIAN NATIONAL RAILWAYS Pacific #5529 CLASS K1-d is seen on the Sorel Sub at St-Lambert, QC is waiting for the signal to enter the St-Hyacynthe Sub Since 1958 this steam locomotive has been stored/displayed at the St-Louis Transport Museum in Missouri. (originally ICR #346, ex-CGR #425 in 1913 and CNR #5529 in 1919) Photo from Dave Shaw’s Collection http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/2008/5529.jpg

CANADIAN PACIFIC

CP Locomotives Retired since last issue:

CP SD40-2`s 5578, 5616, 5633, 5675, 5676, 5701, 5709, 5761, 5817 on December 7th. SOO SD40-2 775 on December 7th

Note: These are the first CP locomotives retired since May 2007.

Further to last months CRO: BURLINGTON NORTERN - SANTA FE has now furnished CP an additional locomotive to the four from last month: BNSF SD40-2 6870, 7144, 7148, FURX SD40-2 7211, and this month added BNSF SD70MAC 9602.

CSXT has delivered six additional locomotives to CP: C40-8 7547, and SD40-2’s 8041, 8070, 8084, 8351, and 8872. 8872 is a former unit. Colin Tytler caught CP 434-13 with CSX 8351 led by CP 5905 South, seen in the photo stopped at MacTier, Ontario with - CP SD40-2 5905, CSXT SD40-2 8351, and SOO SD60M 6060. (2nd link CSXT C40-8 7547, 3rd CSX 8872). http://www.railpictures.net/viewphoto.php?id=215723 http://www.trainweb.org/csxphotos/photos/C40-8/7547CSX-bc.jpg http://www.trainweb.org/csxphotos/photos/SD40-2/8872cr.jpg

On November 27th, the CP ran an equipment train to Toronto, Powered by CP FP9Au 4106, and cars Mount Stephan, Royal Wentworth, Craigellachie, and baggage/generator car 95. These four cars were used for the Toronto Railway Club on November 30th and December 1st and 2nd for their annual banquet held at the Royal York Hotel. The cars will likely dead-head back to Calgary in early December. On November 29th, CP business cars were photographed just west of Toronto . http://hostovsky.com/~mrdan/msc/13833e-CPBizFenceTrack.jpg

Strange bedfellows! CP FP9Au 4106 and VIA Telus F40PH-2 6429 on November 27th Photo by John Morin http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/2008/4106andvia.jpg Later, in in- December CP FP9Au 4106 was in Toronto and CRO has learned that it may be going to NRE- Capreol for a modification of some sort. We have been unable to confirm that the F-unit could be repainted again due to dirt and foreign material that was not removed properly by the contractor. The AutoStart and other mechanical issues have been resolved and the locomotive is in great shape internally. Sister CP FP9Au 4107 is seen here on a CP freight heading back to Calgary in late November. http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/2008/ga1.jpg http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/2008/ga2.jpg

CPRS SD40-2's 5415, 5420, are the last two former KCS units operating on CP, and 5420 is the last 5400-series SD40-2 still in mainline service. The Morrison/Knudsen rebuilt CPRS SD40M-2's 5490-5497 and 5499, along with 5415 are all operating in yard service and assigned to Calgary and Thunder Bay. In 1993, CPRS 5415 was the third unit to sport the CP RAIL SYSTEM paint scheme, and as of December 27th the last 5400-series locomotive in mainline service on CP. Here is a photo of 5420 in one year old CPRS paint: http://www.railpictures.net/viewphoto.php?id=101067&nseq=1

As of November 27th, 2007 here are the remaining STL&H painted locomotives on the CP roaster: Via Bill Miller. Slug 1001 Yard GP9u`s 1502 and 1625, SD40-2`s 5560, 5593, 5615, 5651, GP38-2`s 7306, 7308 (both ex-D&H), and road GP9u`s 8223 (which arrived at Ogden Shop in late November has just now been repainted into CP livery) and 8225 and 8245. Take a look at Chris Wilson`s shot of former CP SD40-2 5648 (ST&LH) patch job! http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/misc/cp5648.jpg

On November 18th, Mike Lockwood clicked these images of CP train 235 with a rainbow of colourful leased units from NRE. On the CP Belleville Sub at Bowmanville, Ontario. http://www.railpictures.net/viewphoto.php?id=213001 http://www.railpictures.net/viewphoto.php?id=213000 http://www.railpictures.net/viewphoto.php?id=213000

And Roman Litarchuk’s images in Saskatchewan: http://tinyurl.com/2k99ne

2007 HOLIDAY TRAINS CANADA USA Canadian Train: Number: Lengths: US Train: Number: Lengths: Loco (AC4400CW) CP 9815 73 Loco CP 9824 73 Box Cars CP 220305 68 Box Cars CP 220031 68 Box Cars CP 220009 68 Box Cars CP 220332 68 Box Cars CP 220592 68 Box Cars CP 220037 68 Box Cars CP 220219 68 Box Cars CP 220476 68 Platform Car CP 507213 57.58 Platform Car CP 507163 66.29 Generator Container CPPU900051 44.5 Generator CPPU900057 44.5 Box Cars CP 220300 68 Box Cars CP 220225 68 Box Cars CP 220608 68 Stage Car CP 401753 57.66 Stage Car CP 401750 57.83 Box Cars CP 220451 68 Storage Car CP 401754 55.58 Power Car CP96 44.5 Business cars Dominion 85.33 Business cars Banffshire 83.91 Smokey Smith 85.33 Killarney 83.91 NR Crump 83.91 Van Horne 83.91 Mt. Royal 83.91 Strathcona 83.91

Canadian Train: US Train: Loco to center stage 567.495 feet 508.12 feet Center stage to last car 421.555 feet 478.39 feet Total length 989.05 feet 986.51 feet

Photo of the Canadian Train: http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/2008/9815stluc1.jpg

The US version of the 2007 CP Holiday Train returned to Canada via Rouses Point, on a very snowy December 3rd. Was held at St-Luc for inspection and then moved to Toronto on December 5th. The US train returned stateside on December 7th to Buffalo, , and moved over NS to Chicago and then over CP in Minnesota before returning back over the border to Saskatchewan, and then Alberta. http://www.railpictures.net/viewphoto.php?id=215177 http://www.railpictures.net/viewphoto.php?id=215178

Lance Gleich caught the US version of the CP Holiday Train passing over the Don Valley River Bridge, in Toronto about a week earlier. http://members.trainorders.com/bn2189/Toronto/cp9824bdonriverholidaytrain.jpg http://members.trainorders.com/bn2189/Toronto/cp9824bdonriverholidaytrainwide.jpg

While staking a good photo location, he caught CP train train #103 a little earlier with SD9043MAC #9130 and AC4400CW #9520: http://members.trainorders.com/bn2189/Toronto/cp9130bdonriver.jpg

After repairs at St-Luc Diesel shop, D&H GP38-2 7312 returned to active duty in Saratoga Springs, New York on November 27th. She is one of only three lighting stripe painted D&H units remaining on the CP roster. On December 10th, at Port Henry, NY, she again led the 2007 Toys for Tots train. Gary Knapp photo : http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/2008/7312.jpg

This Christmas decorated CP SW1200RS switcher was done by the Coquitlam shop a few years back. Todd Luschynski. Photo and decorated by Don Scott. http://finance.groups.yahoo.com/group/C-P-R/

A December 18th visit to St-Luc Yard resulted in seeing a variety of motive power including: Former F40PH-2 245, AMT F59PHI 1329, BNSF SD40-2 7148 (In H1-paint) NREX SD40-2 4297 (in UP paint), CEFX AC4400CW`s 1038 and 1039, former-CDAC (CANADIAN- AMERICAN RAILROAD) F40PH-2m 457, and CP units 1537, 1612, 5936, 6078, 8555, 8728, 9511, 9565, 9643, 9703,and 9706. http://www.myrailfan.com/collection/CP/CP_1612/img.aspx?ID=CP_1612_STLUC_2.jpg http://www.myrailfan.com/misc/457.jpg http://www.myrailfan.com/collection/BNSF/BNSF_7148/BNSF_7148_STLUC_1.jpg

Gary Knapp photographed this great view of the BNSF and NREX SD40-2`s mentioned above while enroute to Canada at Plattsburgh, NY taken the night before on the 17th. http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/2008/cp251.jpg

The governments of Canada and Saskatchewan announced plans to provide up to $27 million for the Regina Region Inter-Modal project as part of the Asia-Pacific Gateway and Corridor Initiative. Estimated to cost $93 million, the project calls for constructing a intermodal terminal near Regina, upgrading a road connecting to the facility and improving nearby grade crossings. The federal and provincial funding is contingent on the project meeting certain federal eligibility requirements, the completion of an environmental assessment and negotiation of a contribution agreement among project sponsors.

For the freight car buffs ... CP’s new Johnstown Aluminum Auto-Racks. CP has purchased 375 of these cars, and the two prototypes were added added as well for a total of 377. CP 546375-546376 (ex-NOKL 790001-790002), and apparently have the billboard lettering removed (but still visible) and the unique stamping in the aluminum that you can see should remain. http://hostovsky.com/~WDM/NOKL_790002.jpg

CP MOTIVE POWER DISTRIBUTION (As of December 19th, 2007)

NOTE: This list shows only the ACTIVE CP units that are in service, and none of the SUS units.

Road units trail only marked "T" Road units lead US only marked "U" Yard units with RSC marked "L" Slug units marked "S" Mothers to slugs marked "M" Control Units for control cabs marked "C" In Backshops marked "B*" Passenger Service marked "P" D&H Cab Signal units marked "NYC" Expressway units marked "X" Toronto-maintained 4-axle units that are international marked "I" Toronto units not international marked "#" "NJ" denotes units in process of sale. "xx" denotes that home shops have been removed. "Q" denotes unit having a QEG Governor

Cote St-Luc DIESEL SHOP – MONTREAL CP 8600-8643 8645-8655 9500-9519 9520B* 9521-9525 9526B* 9527-9553 9555B* 9556-9559 9560B* 9561-9568 9569B* 9570-9582

CP1022S 1509Q 1519Q 1537Q 1547LQ 1549QB* 1577LQ 1599Q 1604Q 1608LQ 1612Q 1615LM 1626Q 1630LQ 1649LQ 1688LQ 1690LQ 1697LQ

CP 3024QB* 3025QI 3047Q 3072I 3121QI

CP 8228Q 8241IQ 8247IQ

CEFX 1026-1059

REX 9402 9903 9926 9931 AMT Locomotives 1310 1311 1312 1313 1321 1322 1323 1324 1325 1326B* 1327 1328 1329 1330 (Leased to AMT) ex-AMTRAK 243 287 319 372 400 411 VIA 6401

Agincourt Yard TORONTO DIESEL SHOP CP 5420(US-owned) ST5560 5573 5576 5583 5585 5609 5612 ST5615 5629 5641 5642 5648 ST5651 5657 5662 5664 5687 5691 5711 5719 5721(US-owned) 5724 5726 5727 5730 5733 5735 5736 5739 5743X 5746X 5749 5750(US-owned) 5755 5759 5762T# 5763 5764 5765 5770T 5772 5773(US-owned) 5775(US-owned) 5776 5787(US-owned) 5788 5789Q 5790Q 5795 5802 5806 5808 5811 5813 5814 5822 5827 5829 5833 5836(US- owned) 5841 5843 5847 5857 5863 5864 5867Q 5871Q 5879Q 5901Q 5918Q 5932 5990 CP 6026QY 6030Q 6043C 6056T# 6057T# 6071Q 6072 6073 6075 6077 6079 CP 3031Q 3032Q 3038Q 3042Q 3043Q 3045Q 30573096 3097Q 3105Q 3111Q 3114Q CP 4652 4655 4656 4657 CP 5791Y 5835Y(for Windsor Yard) CP 6613Y(US-owned) for Smiths Falls roadswitcher SOO 769Y(for Vaughan Yard) CP 6618Y 6619Y 6620Y 6621Y 6622Y 6623Y CP 8200 8201 8203 8206 8207 8208 8209 8210 8211 8212B* 8214 8215 8216 8219 8220 8221Q 8222 8223 8224 ST8225 8226 8229IQ(US-owned) 8231 8233 8234C 8237 8238 8239 8242 8243 ST8245 8246 8248 8249(US- owned) 8250 8252B* ST1001S 1002S 1011S 1012S 1013S 1014S 1015S 1016S 1021S 1023S 1024S 1025S 1150 1152 1156 1159 1271Q ST1502L 1505L 1508L 1516L 1518M 1538 1542 1548M 1559 1561 1578M 1596M 1598MB* 1602M 1605L 1607M 1609B* 1610M 1614L 1618L 1628M 1646 1650 1682 1684L 1691 NREX 5417 5431 5462 5468? 5581 5760 5777 5823

D&H (East Conklin Yard) - BINGHAMTON DIESEL SHOP CP 4650 CP 4651 CP 4653 CP 4654

D&H SARATOGA DIESEL SHOP DH 7303U DH 7304U CP 7305 STLH 7306 CP 7307 STLH 7308 CP 7309 CP 7310 CP 7311 DH 7312 CP 8227 CP 8230 CP 8244 CP 5671nyc CP 5672nyc CP 5677nyc CP 5690nyc CP 5697nyc CP 5698nyc CP 1545 CP 1564 CP 1651 CP 1652 CP 1687

ST. PAUL DIESEL SHOP: CP 1403-1404 1415 1422 1424 1426 1428-1429 1433 1440 1445-1447 1511-151 SOO 1532 1535-1538 1540 1543-1544 SOO 1546-1548 1550-1551 1553 1555 CP 776Y CP 778UY 779Y SOO 2010U 2016U 2026U 2032UB* 2041U SOO 2057U 2064U 2066U CP 3015 3017-3019 SOO 4400-4403U CP 4404U SOO 4405U CP 4406-4407U SOO 4409-4410U SOO 4411-4413U SOO 4414-4415QU SOO 4416-4419U SOO 4420QU CP 4421-4422U SOO 4423U SOO 4424QU SOO 4425U SOO 4426QU SOO 4427-4429U SOO 4431-4434U SOO 4435QU SOO 4436U CP 4437U SOO 4438-4439U CP 4440U SOO 4441-4445U SOO 4446-4447QU SOO 4448-4452 SOO 4506U CP 4507U SOO 4508-4510U SOO 4511U 4512U CP 4513U SOO 4514-4515U CP 4520-4526U SOO 4598U CP 4599 4600U SOO 4601U CP 4602U SOO4603U CP 4608-4609U CP 4611U CP 4614UB* CP 4615-4616U 4617UB* 4618U 4620U SOO 4648U CP 6042 6044 6045-6046Q 6047 6048Q 6049-6051 6053-6055 6059Y 6060-6061 6063 6064Y 6066 CP 6067QB* 6068-6069 6080 SOO 6021-6062 CP 8263-8264U 8275U CP 8500-8576 8577B* 8578-8580 8760-8777 8779-8813 8815-8857 NREX 6300 6301 6309 6451 6475 6481 6497 6498 NREX 6503 6876 7360 7370 9273

THUNDER BAY DIESEL SHOP: CP 1153 1155 1157 1160 1506 1540 1543 1560 1571 1574 1576 1595 1633Q 1640Q 1643Q 1694 1695L CP 5490-5493Y 5499Y(Wpg maintained)

WINNIPEG DIESEL SHOP: CP 1127-1128S 3027CQ 3028C 3073Q 3106Q 3117 3119-3120Q 3122Q CP 5707Y 5756Y 6058TQY 6065TY 66607QY 6609QY 6612Y 6616QY CP 8205 8213Q 8240 8251 CP 1250Q 1503 1507 1526 1530 1532 1553 1562 1569-1570 1585-1587 1590 1594 1597L 1622 STLH 1625Mxx 1629Q 1641Q 1683

WINNIPEG EMD CP 5798Q 5865-5866 5868Q 5869 5870Q 5872 5873Q 5874 5875Q 5876-5878 5900Q 5902 5903-5904Q 5905 5906Q 5907 5908-5916Q 5917 5919Q 5920 5922-5923Q 5924 5925Q 5926 5927-5928Q 5929 5930-5931Q 5933 5934-5935Q 5936 5937Q 5939Q 5941-5944Q 5945 5946-5947Q 5948 5949-5950Q 5951 5952-5954Q 5956 5957Q 5958 5959-5960Q 5961 5962Q 5964-5966 5967Q 5968 5969Q 5970 5971-5972Q 5973 5975QB* 5976-5977Q 5978 5980Q 5981-5982 5983-5985Q 5987Q 5988 5989Q 5991-5993Q 5995-5998 5999-6001Q 6002QB* 6003-6006 6007Q 6009 6010Q 6011-6012B* 6013 6014B* 6015Q 6016-6017 6018-6019Q 6020 6021-6023Q 6024 6025Q 6027- 6028 6029Q 6031Q 6033Q 6034-6036 6037B* 6038-6040 6041Q 6052 6062Q 6076T CP 9000Q 9001 9002-9005Q 9006-9007 9008B* 9009-9011 9012Q 9013 9014-9021Q 9022-9023 9024Q CP 9100-9110 9112-9152 9153B* 9154-9160 CP 9300-9303 CEFX 100-119

MOOSE JAW DIESEL SHOP: CP 3013(US-owned) 3014Q (US-owned) 3016 3020 3021QB* 3036 3039 3040-3041Q 3044Q 3048Q 3053Q 3055-3056Q 3058-3061Q 3063Q 3066Q 3068 3070Q 3075Q 3079-3080Q 3082Q 3083 3085-3090Q 3093-3094Q 3098-3100Q 3103Q 3108-3110Q 3112-3113Q 3115B* 3116Q 3118Q 3123-3127Q 3129-3130Q 3133Q 3135Q 5392T(US-owned) CP 5593 5599 5604 5611 5643 5679 5683-5684 5688 5692 5696T 5700 5702 5712 5715 5716B* 5717 5720 5723 5725(US-owned) 5728 5729(US-owned) 5734 5741X(US-owned) 5747 5748(US-owned) 5753 5754B* 5757 5766 5778 5792Q(US-owned) 5793(US-owned) 5801 5804-5805 5830 5963 5994 6078T CP 762 6602 6604 6606 6608 6615Q SOO 6617Q 1251Q 1501 1533 1535-1536B* 1541Q 1546 1554Q 1555 1566 1568Q 1573 1584 1593Q1603Q 1611 1621 1631Q 1686Q NREX 783 4279 4294 4297 4403 4404 4406 NREX 5062 5067 5071 5078 5081 5082 5087 NREX 7356 7364 7368 7374 7880 8822

ALYTH Yard : CP 1125S 1154 3022Q 3023QB* 3029-3030Q 3033-3034Q 3035QC 3037Q 3046 3049-3052Q 3054Q 3062Q 3064-3065Q 3069Q 3071Q 3074 3078Q 3081Q 3084Q 3092Q 3095Q 3101-3102Q 3104Q 3107Q 3128Q 3131-3132Q 3134Q CP 5415Y(US-owned) 5494Y(US-owned) 5495-5497Y 5731Y 5838Y 5844Y 5846Y 5853Y CP 6603QYB* 6610Y 6611QY 6614QY CP 8217B* 8218 8232 8235 CP 1245Q 1249Q CP 4106P-4107P CP 1510 1514-1515 1520 1521 1522-15251527-1529 1531Q 1539Q 1551 1557Q 1558B* 1563 1565 1567 1581L 1588LQ 1601 1613 1617Q 1632Q 1636LQ 1638Q 1642 1644-1645Q 1647-1648 1689Q 1692-1693 1696 SOO 4201 SOO 4204 NREX 8685 8695 8865 9294

ALYTH GE: CP 9583-9593 9594B* 9595-9614 9615B* 9616-9625 9626B* 9627-9647 9648B* 9649 9650B* 9651-9672 9673B* 9674-9683 9700B* 9701-9719

COQUITLAM DIESEL SHOP: CP 1126S 3000Q 3001 3002Q 3003 3004Q 3005-3007 3008Q 3009-3010 3011-3012Q 3026CQ 5621 5708 5713B* 5714 5742X 5745X 5794 5796-5797 5824 CP 8204 CP 1020S 1237-1238 1239Q 1241Q 1244Q 1550Q 1579-1580 1582-1583 1589L 1591 1620 1623 1624M 1627QB* 1634 1685

COQUITLAM GE 8700-8759 8858-8859 9720-9740 9750-9764 9765B* 9766-9784 9800-9805 9806B* 9807-9840

CP photo vignettes:

A CPR E8 in the as-delivered paint scheme, pauses at Weirs Beach, NH with CP train no. 20, the Montreal to Boston Alouette in August 1953. Note the classy mix of B&M and CPR coaches! http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/misc/1800-53.jpg

Ted Ellis captured this CP RAIL RS18 plow extra getting ready to head east on the SOO LINE on January 12th 1982. http://algomacentral.railfan.net/images/Oldies/ocpr32.jpg

CP RAIL train 901 with M636 4721, 4720, 4712 and SD40 5507rolls through Schreiber, Ontario in August 1974. A CP Alco switcher in the background (Photo D’Arcy Furlonger) http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/misc/cp4721.jpg

Christmas 20 years ago. With the CP shut down for the holiday, a variety of locomotives share the shop tracks at Smiths Falls, Ont. on Christmas Day, 1987. From left to right are SD40 #5514, newly rebuilt RS-18u #1838, RS-23 #8027, GP35 #5014, SD40-2's #5938 and #5957, leased Algoma Central SD40-2 #188, M-630 #4563, RS-18 #8760 and SD40-1 #5410. Twenty years later only one of these units, SD40-2 #5957, is still active on CP's roster, although some others remain alive working for other owners. (Photo by Bill Sanderson). http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/2008/cpsf.jpg

D’Arcy Furlonger’s image of a CP RAIL C424 in Schreiber, Ontario. http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/2008/c424-1.jpg

VIA and COMMUTER RAILROADS

CANADA ALLIED DIESEL of Lachine, Quebec has been awarded a $100-million dollar contract to overhaul the 53 remaining VIA F40PH-2`s in the 6401-6458-series. (Five are now retired from the fleet following wrecks). The GMDD-built F40PH-2 locomotives account for 70 percent of ’s locomotive fleet and the first of the group have arrived at CAD.

The CAD VIA F40PH-2 project includes a complete overhaul, and when they are complete their hoods will have been modified externally as well. The units will receive installation of new parts that will allow the units to be more environmentally friendly. The F40PH’s will also get a new modular relay system, cruise control, improved cab heating and ventilation, a new micro-processor, electronic fuel monitoring and a VIA Renaissance livery repaint. The HEP in the VIA F40’s will also be modified by adding a separate HEP diesel generator to avoid the engine always running in the 8th notch. The body will be extended out over the walkway, eliminating the side step access to the back door. This marks a big change from the CAD prototype locomotive VIA 6400 released last year. This also makes the 6400 a one- of-a-kind unique unit! This is an intelligent modification as it will cut down and fuel costs and reduce noise. Already on site are 6402, 6443, 6452, 6454, 6457. CRO has learned that even though they will be quite different from the prototype 6400, VIA will officially retain using the class number GPA-30d, as 6400 is now tagged. This rebuilt locomotive can no longer really be called an F40PH-2, but we will leave that to the pundits. (In my opinion, F40PH-3m has a nice ring to it! - ed) To see the current status of all the VIA F40 units, please visit Marc's website at http://www.myrailfan.com/tables/list_F40.aspx

In December AMT 1320 which is their first F59PHI, has been sent to AMERICAN MOTIVE POWER in Danville, New York for repairs (with AARX reporting marks). As reported last month AMP intends to purchase or lease part of the former CN Pointe St- Charles Shop in Montreal. Here is a photo of the movement from Fort Erie by Stephan M. Koenig crossing the International Bridge at Black Rock, NY. http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/misc/amt1320.jpg AMT F59PHI 1320 photos: http://www.myrailfan.com/collection/AMT/AMT_1320/AMT_1320.htm

CRO learned in December that the Quebec Liberal Government has warded BOMBARDIER a $C 386 million ($US 381 million) contract to supply 160 double-deck coaches for Montreal commuter rail operator AGENCE METROPOLITAINE de TRANSPORT (AMT). The stainless steel coaches will have capacity for up to 200 passengers, 30% more than AMT’s existing Bambardier and former GO TRANSIT single-deck coaches and will sport GPS-based audio visual passenger information systems. The coaches will be constructed and assembled at Bombardier's La Pocatiere, Quebec plant, and deliveries will begin in the third quarter of 2009. The order includes carss for AMT's $ 300 million East Train roject, which will see the introduction of commuter rail services on the 51km CN line from Montreal to Repentigny and Mascouche in 2011. On December 18th, Marc Chouinard captured these BOMBARDIER-built Double deck commuter coaches at CN Parsley, being interchanged with CP for BBD`s plant in Plattsburgh, NY, for completion. These specific cars eventually will be heading to NEW JERSEY TRANSIT, however according to our BBD sources, the cars in this photo are almost identical to the AMT order. http://www.myrailfan.com/misc/img.aspx?ID=bbd.jpg

After the big storm on December 3rd, the operator AGENCE METROPOLITAINE de TRANSPORT utilized lot of spare employees because of the extra hours worked the day before. There were a lot of double engine trains, and for added coverage, one train had a double engine and generator car. (Photos by Marc Chouinard) #14 0655 VAU - CP8241 (Traction) AMT1326 (HEP) #112 0710 VAU - AMT1324 (Normal, Rigaud train) #16 0730 VAU - AMT400 AMT1321 #18 0745 VAU - AMT1330 AMT1323 AMT60X (Generator) #20 0810 VAU - VIA6401* (Same eq. as #10) CP 8241 at Mtl-West http://www.myrailfan.com/misc/img.aspx?ID=cp_8241_montreal_1.jpg AMT 400 at Dorion http://www.myrailfan.com/misc/img.aspx?ID=AMT_400_dorion_1.jpg AMT 1323 at Dorion (+ 1330 & generator) http://www.myrailfan.com/misc/img.aspx?ID=AMT_1323_dorion_1.jpg

Former VIA Rail RDC-9 6005, ex-Boston & Maine Railroad 6920, was being scrapped during November. The RDC had been transported by road from Les-Cedres, Quebec to near Pointe-Calumet, Quebec in March 2007. There had been plans to convert the RDC into a coffee shop which never transpired.

In Late November, GO TRANSIT announced plans to open the new Barrie South GO Station on December 17th. The station is part of a $25 million project to extend GO Transit's Bradford Line north to the city of Barrie, Ontario. The project, which began in February, included improvements to existing tracks, and upgrades to signals and crossings. The line will be renamed the Barrie Line. The four morning and evening GO trains that currently operate between Union and Bradford stations also will serve Barrie South. In mid- December , GO TRANSIT tested their newest unit, GO MP40PH-3C 602 east of Mimico with a 14 car test train.

Terry Brennan’s shots of VIA train #45 the day after the big snow storm in December. You can see how all that snow can mess with the switches. http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g199/viahogger/CIMG7112.jpg http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g199/viahogger/CIMG7113.jpg http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g199/viahogger/CIMG7118.jpg http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g199/viahogger/CIMG7127.jpg http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g199/viahogger/CIMG7130.jpg VIA 6401 left AMT and was on duty on #640 on December 22. Here are two Terry Brennan’s shot's of VIA #640 on her way to Ottawa. First in Cobourg then in Kingston. http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g199/viahogger/CIMG7162.jpg http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g199/viahogger/CIMG7169.jpg

With the December we all just went through we felt these photos by Neil Renshaw, of Burlington, Ontario were pertinent as they capture VIA, GO and CN trains in Canada`s snowy environment this past few weeks. http://home.cogeco.ca/~trainpics1/HPIM1367.JPG http://home.cogeco.ca/~trainpics1/HPIM1369.JPG http://home.cogeco.ca/~trainpics1/HPIM1370.JPG http://home.cogeco.ca/~trainpics1/HPIM1373.JPG http://home.cogeco.ca/~trainpics1/HPIM1374.JPG http://home.cogeco.ca/~trainpics1/HPIM1375.JPG

Great Shot: Frank Jolin clicked this beautiful photograph of an AMTRAK P42 leading the NY train at M.P 21.50 on the CN Rouses Point Subdivision at St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec, on December 17, 2007 http://www.railpictures.net/viewphoto.php?id=215856

CANADIAN LOCOMOTIVE REPAIR SHOPS

CN GP9RM 7249 was scrapped at CANADA ALLIED DIESEL in Lachine, QC in November 2007. Regarding those CAD-rebuild switchers bound for Socitie d'Exploitation du Transgabonais, (or simply the GABON RAILWAY), in Africa, which we posted in the last month’s ìssue of CRO. Here are their ancestries: BB565 (Ex-UPM Miramichi 711, nee CN 1376), BB566 (ex CN 1363), BB567 (ex-CAD 1993 nee CP 1211, nee- 8127). Thanks to Bruce Mercer, Bill Linley and Geoff Doane. http://naphotos.nerail.org/showpic/?2007112409023728995.jpg

During December an internet rumor began circulating suggesting that BRANDT ROAD-RAIL CORP of Regina, Saskatchewan, may begin rebuilding a GMDD Geep (ex-CP GP9u 1592), for a new model GENSET Switcher, that would utilize three John Deere engines with a brand new cab that would be shipped to Brandt from another vendor. We emailed the company on December 14th however when Mr. Neil Marcotte of Brandt replied, he could neither confirm, or deny our inquiries. Brandt Road Rail currently sells M-O-W products, and tractor-based car movers, and a switching unit that is based on a Cat and Kato alternator. Those products, dubbed the DE 600 and DE 1050, have 600 or 1,050 hp respectively. Website: http://roadrail.brandt.ca/

In December NREX GP9 1684, ex-BNSF, nee-ATSF was moved to NRE in Capreol, Ontario for repairs. It still sports the SANTA FE`s attractive blue and yellow war bonnet livery. http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/2008/sf1684.jpg In January, NRE-Capreol will be sending five former CP SD40-2`s to NRE in Dixmoor, Illinois. They are ex-CP 5482, 5590, 5623, 5704, and 5769.

SHORTLINES, REGIONALS & INDUSTRIALS

ONTARIO SOUTHLAND RAILWAY RS-18u 180 (ex-CP 1860) had a crankshaft failure in November and will eventually be sent to a contract shop for a change-out, and will likely inherit the prime-mover from OSRX RS-18 1116 which is currently SUS. in November OSRX RS-23 switcher 504 (ex-CP 8044) had its failed piston replaced and OSRX GP9 175 (nee C&O 6193) and are both expected to return to service in December.

In Mid-November, the GODERICH-EXETER RAILWAY replaced the main generator in GEXR FP9u 1401 at their shop in Goderich, Ontario, and once a new coupler is installed, the A-unit is expected to return to service. In December, sister GEXR FP9u 1400 was still stored unserviceable at Goderich. GEXR GP38 3835 was also down with traction motor problems in November, and the front bearing assembly was being replaced. Also in November, leased CEFX GP38-3 6537 was still undergoing repairs at Goderich. This unit had been stored unserviceable for quite some time. And finally in late November, GEXR GP40 4046 was sent to the Goderich shop with several serious mechanical issues.

MM&A F40PH-2 245, ex-AMTRAK 245 came to the MM&A eralier this year to donate parts for the Poland Project. It has now arrived in St-Luc and will be going to AMERICAN MOTIVE POWER in Danville New York.

Five ex-Amtrak F40PH-2 units (339, 247, 391, 345 and 320) purchased by TITAN RAIL (Oswego, IL) will soon be on the move to Canada via the MONTREAL MAINE & ATLANTIC. SUPERIOR LOCOMOTIVE REPAIR of Ohio, was contracted by TITAN RAIL to get these hulks prepared to move safely as regular freight cars with a working brake line air, etc.. They have air-lines restored and operational brakes and all of the loose parts including hood doors spot welded so nothing will move, fallout or open. There are not going back to RAILWORLD in Chicago. At press time there destination was not known. RAILWORLD used to own these units, but took them to MM&A in Derby to have the engines removed and rebuilt. These units were to be part of the Poland Project and were eventually purchased by TITAN RAIL The rest of the remaining locomotive hulkswas to be scrapped or sold. In this case, these five were sold, http://www.railpictures.net/viewphoto.php?id=215288 The Poland Project was when Railworld bought old Amtrak F40 units and took the engines out at the Derby Shops and had them rebuilt while the generators were sent out to a contractor to be rebuilt. Once completed, they would pack each piece in a container and ship them to Poland. The Poland Railroad would put these new engines into their old Soviet Built diesels. Thus the name Poland Project. The CDAC F40PHm’s were leased by IRONROAD`’s and when they went backrupt, Railworld bought them as well and have used some and sold some. One of the CDAC units 462, was used in the Poland Project. (Thanks to Rodney Bushway)

In December, CDAC F40PHm 457, in St-Luc Yard in Mid December is distined to AMERICAN MOTIVE POWER in Danville, NY for repairs.

In December, former CDAC F40PH-2m 461 now owned by OMNITRAX moved from the HUDSON BAY RAILWAY to the IOWA NORTHERN in Waterloo, Iowa. More locomotives are expected to follow from Canada. In December OMLX SD35E 2959 (ex-SP 2959), also moved from the HBRY, and moved to OMNITRAX in Loveland, Colorado. It wore several numbers and was retired by SP in 1995, sold to and then Omnitrax, who had leased it to UTAH RAILWAY, prior to the much traveled SD35E coming to Canada.

Former KCS SD40-2’s 653, and 663, in St-Luc Yard in Mid-December, have been overhauled by MM&A, Derby, Maine., and are going to Houston, Texas for movement to the PANAMA CANAL RAILWAY. They are currently in all white primer and are still sub lettered KCS, but may be going for a paint job prior to moving to Houston. The current paint scheme is the same as the KCS de Mexico. http://www.panarail.com/

TSHIUETIN RAIL Transportation F40PH-2 600 and 600 (ex-MAINE EASTERN F40PH's 256 and 291) were released in their new paint scheme in December, and were sent to the QNS&L shop for their interchange inspection. The Current TSH roster consists of: TSH GP38-2 (De- turbo'ed GP40-2's to GP38-2), TSH GP40-2W 701, Ex-CN 9663, TSH GP40-2W 702, Ex CN- 9667, Power car: TSH 1422 fitted with 2 Diesel MTU 400 generators, Baggage cars: TSH 1445(ex-Amtrak 1445), TSH 1455 (ex-Amtrak 1455), TSH 1000: (ex-Amtrak 8712 - "Silver Rein" was previously Amtrak coach 5018 - "Silver Rein", nee CB&Q 4741 - "Silver Rein"). TSH 1001: (ex-Amtrak 7606 - "Schenectady" was previously Amtrak 7415, nee PC/PRR 1585), TSH 1002: (ex- Amtrak 7617 - "Fort Edward" was previously Amtrak 7428, nee PC/PRR 1598), TSH 1003: (ex-Amtrak 7614 (no name) was previously Amtrak 7425, nee PC/PRR 1595), TSH 1004: (ex- Amtrak 7001 (no name) was previously Amtrak 7401, nee PC/PRR 1570). These classic passenger cars are both Budd-built, 1000 was built in 1956 and 1001-1004 were both built in 1952. (Thanks to Michel Daoust and Earl Roberts). http://www.railpictures.net/viewphoto.php?id=86078&nseq=8

On December 20, 2007, Brendan Frisina caught this OTTAWA VALLEY RAILINK plow extra at Mile 5, on the North Bay Sub, near Wylie, Ontario clearing fresh snow. http://www.railpictures.net/viewphoto.php?id=216212

ELECTRO-MOTIVE CANADA COMPANY

(By Don McQueen)

Summary of EMCC deliveries during November 2007:

During November, 32 units were shipped from London, although at least four were not for the customer. 20 CNRC SD70DCe (8813, 8815, 8817, 8823, 8824, 8826, 8831-8833, 8837- 8847) were delivered to the company. 8829 went to LaGrange for testing. Four Euro Cargo Rail (ECR) units were shipped for the joint company created by English Welsh & Scottish Railway (EWS) and new owner Deutsche Bundesbahn (DB) for operation in France (order 20068864). ECR (77006-77009) with yellow ends, ivory-white finish with blue and red were shipped in an special export train to Halifax for loading onto Jumbo Ship JUMBO SPIRIT. Joining them in the same train were another five SNTF (Algeria - Societe Nationale Transports Ferroviaire) blue passenger GT36HCW units (060DS-02 to 060DS-06). Although they had been shipped earlier in the month from ITS-Welland with incorrectly painted noses (blue with white stripes), EMCC repainted them white with blue bands before the shipping date. More BNSF SD70ACe units (Order 20066862 for 100 - 9130 to 9229) have been sighted in paint at the London plant and two (9137 & 9138) may have gone to ITS-Welland for final testing. The first of nine G26MC-2 export units for PJKA (Indonesia - Perusahaan Jawatan Kereta Api) under order 20068821 for road numbers CC202.40 to CC202.48 have been seen in primer at the plant. In Welland, assembly continues of the SNTF Algerian passenger units.

The first week of December, brand new CN SD70M-2 8829 has been shipped to EMD McCook, for emission testing, frame #20066861-030. the same week after completing testing at EMD McCook, two (London-built) ALASKA RAILROAD SD70M-2’s ARR 4327 and ARR 4328, were interchanged to the UP at Yard Center, Dolton, IL and two days later headed west on a Chicago-Seattle train. The pair were seen out side Chicago on a UP train of Auto-racks with UP 5481 up front , trailing ARR 4327, ARR 4328, trace car TTGX 997221. http://www.railroadforums.com/forum/showthread.php?p=179284 In this image, brand new BNSF SD70ACe 9136 shows off her isolated cab details: http://www.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=980792

On December 20th Ronald Pelletier captured BNSF 9144 & 9133 on the test track at London, doing some brake tests. http://railfan.thegrebs.com/Misc/bnsf9144a http://railfan.thegrebs.com/Misc/bnsf9144b http://railfan.thegrebs.com/Misc/bnsf9133a http://railfan.thegrebs.com/Misc/bnsf9133b

Bombardier Transportation announced in Mid December that it has received an order from Electro-Motive Diesel Inc. (EMD) to assemble 145 SD70ACe EMD locomotives, (likely for the BNSF contract). The order, valued at approximately 66 million euros ($94 million US), is based on a frame-work agreement signed between the parties April 3, 2007. The contract calls for fabrication of sub-parts and assembly of the locomotives at Bombardier's production facilities in Sahagun, Mexico. Deliveries are scheduled to begin by mid-March 2008 and take place through the end of the year. Some background information on Electro-Motive Diesel, Inc.: Founded in 1922, (EMD) Electro-Motive Diesel, Inc. is one of the two last U.S. original equipment manufacturers of diesel-electric locomotives. Headquartered in LaGrange, Illinois, with additional facilities in London, Ontario, EMD designs, manufactures and sells diesel-electric locomotives for all commercial railroad applications and has sold its products in more than 70 countries worldwide. The Company has the largest installed base of diesel-electric locomotives in both North America and internationally. EMD has an extensive aftermarket business offering customers replacement parts and a range of value-added services for its locomotives. Additional information may be found at http://www.emdiesels.com/

Five SNTF & 4 ECR units were moved to Pier 9 at the port of Halifax on December 1st to be prepped for shipment in December. The SNTF units are model GT36HCW, 060DS02 to 060DS02, s/n 20028519-002 to 006, all b/d 10/07. The ECR units are the latest version of JT42CWR and will be used in France (and probably other parts of Europe such as Germany & the Netherlands). They are not numbered yet, but have f/n 20068864-006 to 009. (via Ian Pyatt with thanks)

The new owner of EWS / ECR is the German "Deutsche Bahn AG", which is the former "German Federal Railway". Therefore there is a possibility that the new JT42CWR (class 66 units) will operate all over Europe, including Germany. The 6-axle locomotives that currently run in Germany are mainly older Russian units and 11 Bombardier-GE-built Locos, also known as "Blue Tiger's. The owners of this modern GE-units are mostly other private railway-companies. (Thanks to Jan Poepleu))

CANADIAN RAILWAY HISTORY

For the latest news and updates from each historical group and museum website homepage, please refer to our CRO website – MUSEUM - GROUPS LIST:

The Britsh may restore Peppercorn A1-class 4-6-2 steam engine “Tornado”. ht tp://www.a1steam.com/hista1.html SOUTH OF THE BORDER

What was to be the last run of NORFOLK SOUTHERN train #369 to Canada operated on November 30th, with an eclectic consist! Powered by NS C40-9W 9815, NS C40-8W 8402 (Still in CONRAIL blue), and brand new CN ES44DC’s 2272, 2276, and 2277, and a very nice symbolic gesture by the crew. (thanks to Walter Pfefferle) http://railfan.thegrebs.com/Norfolk-Southern/369a http://railfan.thegrebs.com/Norfolk-Southern/369b http://railfan.thegrebs.com/Norfolk-Southern/369c UPDATE: There is now a 60 day extension in place on this service, pending negotiations between CN and NS. CRO seeks more updates and photos of this train.

It’s February 17, 1978 and two Canadian-built NORFOLK & WESTERN covered wagons, (both former Wabash F-units), sit at Windsor, Ontario under the watchful gaze of Detroit's Renaissance Center across the river on one of those winter days where the ice crystals in the air make it appear hazy. (via Don’s Froth) http://www.railpictures.net/viewphoto.php?id=215303&nseq=6

On November 30th, AMTRAK train #371 rear-ended a NORFOLK SOUTHERN double-stack freight on Chicago's south side NS trackage, almost adjacent to the former PRR 55th Street Yards. The AMTRAK P-42 (Number 8) climbed up on the rear TTX flat car. The train "The Pere Marquette" is a daily between Grand Rapids and Chicago and was moving at approximately 15 MPH at the time of impact, and was running about 35 minutes late. The NS freight which was stopped at the time, has just received the signal to proceed west when it was hit. The collision occurred just before noon near 47th and Shields and dozens of passengers had to be rushed to the hospital including one member of the front-end crew.

Any fans of CP`s handsome 2200-series CCF-built Tuscan red coaches will be saddened seeing these links. CRO was sent these sad images of former CP and ALGOMA CENTRAL coaches, some of which that were formerly running on the IOWA NORTHWESTERN dinner train which is no longer running. The coaches were left on a piece of track that is cut off from the rest of the railway and while not confirmed, may have all been scrapped already. http://flickr.com/photos/avyakata/sets/72157602202213066/ http://www.trainweb.org/algoma/excpr_coaches.html

Bill Miller found this very interesting shot of the MORRISTOWN & ERIE Engine house back in 1978’s. Aside from the Alco’s, note the former CP tuscan red baggage car. http://www.railpictures.net/viewphoto.php?id=216336&nseq=24

The State of Vermont has backed out of a $17.5 million deal to purchase state-of-the-art rail cars that would replace cars on Amtrak's Vermonter route on the eastern side of the state. The state Agency of Transportation on Friday decided not to buy the rail cars from Colorado Railcar Manufacturing because the company and Amtrak could not provide sufficient guarantees to buy back the cars or resell them at 90 percent of the purchase price after three years of service. The DMU’s were to cut costs because the new cars would be less expensive to operate than the older equipment. The diesel multiple units, would have been deployed on Amtrak's Vermonter the state subsidized route that runs from St. Albans to Springfield, Mass., and to New York City and Washington D.C.

The Bridge Line serving New England and Canada (my little piece of heaven)! As my friends all know, this is my favourite railroad. Each month from now I will indulge myself and will post a D&H photo regularly in CRO!.

On September 14, 1980, beside the old D&H locomotive facilities at the west end of the sprawling Mechanicville NY yard sat these three patched units, each with their former road heralds showing through: D&H RS11 5009, ex-RDG GP39-2 7411 and exLV C420 409 made for a classic D&H photo opportunity. (Arnold Moody Photo) http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/2008/dhlv.jpg Letters:

Hi Will:

Great reading, Tons of stuff, Thank you. Correction to Don's photo: http://www.canadianrailwayobservations.com/misc/joejoe.jpg Those Algerians are actually hidden in London Yard behind the TTX flats, not loaded on them.

Joseph Zika Toronto, ON

Hi Gents, This CP ten wheeler #453 was O. Winston Link's engine and still exists next to a hobby shop near Utica NY. Anyone know who owns it now? http://www.railpictures.net/viewphoto.php?id=215554

Thanks, Jerry Albertie ([email protected])

Hello William,

I think, Your report is correct but my number of German GE-locos should be 11 "Blue Tiger's" (model DE-AC33C) in Germany, not 10 as I had told you. The Freightliner- JT42CMR's from the beginning of the year are operating in Poland. Some weeks ago, one of these locos ran from Poland to Berlin (Germany). You will also find some information about German railroading in the homepages http://www.railfan.de/forum.html or www.drehscheibe-online.de, but they are both in German-language.

Many greetings from Hamburg.

Jan Poepleu, Hamburg, Germany

The last word:

A cute NS Christmas card! http://www.nscorp.com/nscorphtml/holiday/index.html

The Bytown Railway Society has announced a new book by the late Omer Lavallée: "Canadian Pacific to the East - The International of Maine Division" which is the story of CP's line through northern Maine which CP often referred to as the "Short Line". The story includes information about the Canadian portions of the route in Quebec and New Brunswick. The 346 page, 8-1/2" x 11" book contains photographs including 92 in colour. It is a tribute to Omer, one of Canada's top railway historians and represents his last work before his death in 1992. You may order through the Bytown Railway Society. $69.95 Cdn or $71.95 in U.S. funds taxes and shipping included Overseas: $79.95 in Canadian Funds (surface).

A real treat from Wayne Koch of METRO NORTH’s Harmon Shop. A New York, New Haven and Hartford Railroad historic film clip showing steam powered passenger and freight trains, humping cars in the yard, maintenance and service, operations of interlocking towers, shipping of cargo, the repair of locomotives and cars, dining car service, float dock operations, night freights, LCL service, etc. Enjoy!!

A Great Railroad at Work - Part 1 - 1942 http://www.historylite.com/media/319/A_Great_Railroad_at_Work_-_Part_1_-_19/

THANK YOU: Bruce Chapman, Guilio Capuano, Marc Chouinard, Stuart Rosen, Michel Daoust, Geoff Doane, John Godfrey, GR17f, Craig Konopski, Ken Lanovitch, Wendell Lemon, Bill Linley, Roman Litarchuk, Don McQueen’s “Froth”, Bruce Mercer, Arnold Moody, Terry Muirhead,, Jason Noe, Walter Pfefferle, Earl Roberts, Samuel Thibodeau, Colin Tytler, Bon Wanner, Ron Visockis, Joe Zika, Rodney Bushway, Branchline, BLHS, Tempo Jr, WCRA, the Canadian Trackside Guide, and others.

GOT AN OBSERVATION? New issues of CRO in English and in French are posted each month on our website. News stories pertaining to Canadian railways, photos, comments, favourite links, and questions are always welcome. Please e-mail photos, newsworthy sightings and railway stories to [email protected] and if used, will be placed in the newsletter. Please indicate if you wish your name to be withheld. Please inform us of e- mail address change, or to cancel the announcement mailings. www.canadianrailwayobservations.com Contact: William H. Baird [email protected] 514-726-8085