Having worked for NS in the past I am glad they are retired now. I honestly do not remember a trip where that type of unit would have some type of mechanical or electrical problem or failure. I will admit they have a distictive outline, but they were just plain junk.
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Ah, the "humpbacks". I'm a great fan of many locomotive makers. As much I as like the C series, I cannot say the C39-8 was the best, but they sure just look amazing.
I hope they can be given a safe home, if not, I fear they may find themselves with the rest of GE's old engines... scrap.
I know they have a great legacy, but that isn't told from a engineer. I love these locomotives, but that's it.
I'm glad they made it NS.
Cheers,
Joshua
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Nikos... Nice photo and a good catch! As I was reading your remarks, I was thinking that based on what I've heard about these locos from engineers and conductors, I honestly doubt anyone who works for the railroad is going to miss them! Then I scolled down and read Chris Edwards' comment, and well, there you have a first-hand testimonial from someone who used to work and ride in these "dinosaurs" as you called them. Personally, I still think it would be nice if one C39-8 could be saved for static display if nothing else, but I also realize that's much easier said than done.
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Last time i knew there was a few in Bellevue.
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I too would like to see one preserved but I agree with Chris' comments. When I worked for NS, I hated drawing any of these on my trains. Mechinal troubles and for me the narrow doorways to the cab. I'm a slender guy, but I always snagged my radio belt entering or exiting the cab and my grip would barely fit through. But I loved the distinctive outline these units have.
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They are all up for auction.
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the 8202 went to the Pennsylvania Northeastern railroad & the 8207 & another C39-8 from NS is going to run on the Greenbrier Express train. So your Question & everybody's question has been answered they are all hauling passenger trains so that's good luck.
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