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Posted by MItch on October 30, 2009, 8:43 am, in reply to "Re: New URR Paint:: Railroading on the Sun"
199.248.185.22
Ditch lights for interplant railroading are impractical. They would blind ground personnel more than they would do good. I had originally suggested this as a visibility solution but now understand the reasoning to not do so.
There are only two public grade crossings on the URR, so this change is not motivated for the public. You would be amazed how a slightly milldust-coated loco can blend with the surroundings. Also, sharp curves inside the plant contribute to lots of blind angles. Any increase in visibility is a plus. Often times other equipment being operated in the plant like slag and slab haulers have limited visibility as well. There are numerous areas where these machines have to cross paths. Unfortunately, the changes to 33's look have compromised a well recognized and loved paint scheme. I think its safe to say, though, that blue and white, or at least blue and yellow locomotives will be traversing the Mon Valley and North Bessemer for several years to come.
The URR does all of its own rebuilds and repaints at Hall Shops. The GE emblem has to do with an instrumentation upgrade for traction control. Those stickers have been on various units since about 2003.
That is indeed a camera on the front. All USS and Transtar units will have them as part of event recording.
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