SD457500Good track is essential for a railroad to have smooth operations, and a key part of this is ballast! Two recently reactivated, ex Santa Fe B40-8Ws, were seen dropping fresh ballast at Coon Creek after some bridge, and track work took place. An interesting thing in this video is seeing the guys on the ground walking along the cars, dumping ballast, and ensuring it is properly placed. They have to keep the cars moving at a slow pace, while maintaining footing, and ensure the fresh ballast is evenly dropped along the ROW. Once the work was down, they shoved back to Northtown Yard to call it a day, and tie down.
This little work train was pretty neat to say the least! Complete with a BN Caboose, and two former Santa Fe B40-8s, it was a blast out of the past. Even though the lead unit is patched in BNSF colors, the former Santa Fe duo was a sight to be had in the evening sun. This is a FAR cry from their work on the Super Fleet, but they are still earning their keep for BNSF!
Dropping Ballast on the BNSF Railway -With two Former Santa Fe B40-8Ws!-SD4575002022-09-19 | Good track is essential for a railroad to have smooth operations, and a key part of this is ballast! Two recently reactivated, ex Santa Fe B40-8Ws, were seen dropping fresh ballast at Coon Creek after some bridge, and track work took place. An interesting thing in this video is seeing the guys on the ground walking along the cars, dumping ballast, and ensuring it is properly placed. They have to keep the cars moving at a slow pace, while maintaining footing, and ensure the fresh ballast is evenly dropped along the ROW. Once the work was down, they shoved back to Northtown Yard to call it a day, and tie down.
This little work train was pretty neat to say the least! Complete with a BN Caboose, and two former Santa Fe B40-8s, it was a blast out of the past. Even though the lead unit is patched in BNSF colors, the former Santa Fe duo was a sight to be had in the evening sun. This is a FAR cry from their work on the Super Fleet, but they are still earning their keep for BNSF!
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #track #railway @BNSF Railway @DJI Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Train Derailment CleanupSD4575002022-12-05 | Canadian Pacific derailed a train in Plymouth, MN on March 7th, 2021. This video shows the cleanup, and recovery work, that the railroad did after the derailment. A sun kink caused the train wreck, and this happened at milepost 11.8 on the Paynesville Sub.
We'll focus on watching crews tackle, and move, the remaining cars loaded with sulfur to clear out the derailment site. The drone provides us with a spectacular overhead view. Watch as heavy loaders move cars, torch off parts, and see a train roll past the derailment. Lots of neat, and interesting things to see going on in this video!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Track Used: Song: Y&V - Lune [NCS Release] Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds Free Download/Stream: http://ncs.io/lune Watch: http://youtu.be/n79aphwhpW0 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 tiktok.com/@sd457500 #crash #diesel #railway @NoCopyrightSounds Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Green SD60M In The Twin Cities -Former Burlington Northern on the BNSF-SD4575002022-11-28 | A former Burlington Northern SD60M used to call the Twin Cities home; this was BNSF 1458. This SD60M could be seen on nearly any mainline train, or local, in the area. This unit was later reassigned to Galesburg, and is currently part of a hump set. :/
We'll see the 1458 paired up with a repainted SD60M in all of these clips. Starting off, we'll see the 60M duo at Coon Creek, as it leads the GFDNTW towards NTW on its final leg of the trip. The other times feature in on the BNCP, as the train runs to Saint Paul Yard. Places include Union Jct, Raymond Ave, and Union Jct.
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 tiktok.com/@sd457500 #train #diesel #railway @BNSF Railway Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Bessemer and Lake Erie Trio on the Missabe -BLE Orange Trio on the DM&IR-SD4575002022-11-21 | The former Duluth, Missabe, and Iron Range still sees classic EMD power in everyday service. Recently, three Bessemer and Lake Erie units were put together, complete with old school iron ore cars, in limestone service. These former SD45T-2s looked great as a matched trio, and were right at home on the former DM&IR.
In this video, we'll chase the BLE trio from Proctor to the Duluth docks and back. The train is first seen outside of Proctor as it starts to make its way down the hill. After getting to Duluth, the train drops its cars, and makes its way to another cut of loaded limestone. Shortly after this, they train is seen storming up Proctor Hill in run 8. The three EMDs made music, and looked amazing from the drones view. The second half of the video is a chase from Proctor to Forbes, as they bring the limestone to the taconite plant. The train is seen, and shot at notable places such as Burnett, Alborn, and other locations.
These units are slated to be replaced this spring with 'new' rebuilt CN 33XX GEs. Their time on the range, at this point, is on borrowed time!
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 tiktok.com/@sd457500 #train #diesel #railway Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Rail and Weed TrainsSD4575002022-11-14 | Railroads have some unique, and interesting equipment, which they use to spray for weeds and transport new rail around. Keep the tracks free of weeds is important. Weeds can foul, and prevent proper drainage, which can cause ties to rot early out early, and create a weak road bed, To prevent weeds, railroads run a special weed train which sprays the tracks. In addition to the weed spraying train, we'll see rail trains. One in the Twin Cities, and the other in Iowa.
We'll start off in New Brighton, and see the weed spraying train with an SD30C-ECO leading. The views with a drone, and zoom from the camera, give a good perspective of how far out the crews spray. After the train passes, our attention turns to two rail trains. The first one is seen crossing the Mississippi River, and has a freshly repainted SD40-2F trailing. The second encounter is down in Iowa, and has a former Soo Line SD60 leading the way. It was great to see former Soo Line power out, and a freshly rebuilt SD40-2F nonetheless!
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #special #railway Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Taking off in a B-25 Bomber!SD4575002022-11-11 | Taking off, and getting ready to fly over the MN State Capital with the Commemorative Air Force MN Wing! Enjoy a front seat view from a B-25 Bomber!
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #aviation #history #flight Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Warbonnets on the BNSF Railway -GE B40-8Ws Action!-SD4575002022-11-07 | The iconic, and striking Santa Fe Warbonnet paint scheme can still be found plying the rails of the BNSF railway. More then 25 years after the ATSF merged with the BN to form the BNSF, sights like this are becoming rarer, and harder to see.
Recently, two former Santa Fe GE B40-8W locomotives were pulled from storage, and placed into service. At first, they were not paired up, and worked various locals and road trains. When fall rolled around, BNSF 558 and 542 were paired together making a nice set of heritage power. We'll see and chase these older locomotives on the Hinckley Local, Saint Cloud Local, and mainline action. With over 30 years of service, who knows how much longer these units will stay around.
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #history #railway @BNSF Railway Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Milwaukee Road 261 -Gourmet Express 2022 - Milw 261 and 32A ChaseSD4575002022-10-31 | The Milwaukee Road 261 made some of its first trips of 2022 on the Twin Cities and Western Railroad. These excursions were called the 'Gourmet Express' and ran for two days in early October with nearly perfect weather!
We'll start off watching this special train rolling through Eden Prairie, just past Tower E-14. Shot over the course of two different days, we'll get to see the 261 from the ground and sky in several areas along the way. Unique shots and scenes are taken in places such as Chaska, Hazeltine, Plato, and other locations. The Friends of the 261 always put on a great show, and are a class act! Its always nice to see this steam engine out and about.
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #steam #food @DJI Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Canadian Pacifics Officer Special/Royal Canadian Pacific!SD4575002022-10-27 | A short's view on the Canadian Pacific Officers Special / Royal Canadian Pacific. Music by @Yung Gravy! This chase features highlights from the latest video, and a chase along the Mississippi River to Iowa.
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #royal #railway Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Chasing The Royal Canadian Pacific in Minnesota and Iowa (Special Passenger Train)SD4575002022-10-24 | Chasing the Royal Canadian Pacific along the CP River Sub, and Marquette Line, was a lot of fun! This special, sharp, and classy passenger train had Canadian Pacific's Top Officers onboard (company president), and was bound for Kansas City. LOTS of people were out chasing it all along the way.
Starting off at the break of dawn, the sleek and classy F units negotiated the curves at Maple Springs, MN. With the sun just beneath the horizon, it made for a beautiful and moody 'blue hour' shot. After this, the sun started to come out, and the F units were basking in FULL sun in the curve at Weaver, MN. Fall colors were in full display at Dresbach, and the drone gives a great aerial view, while displaying the fall colors. Further down the line, we'll see such notable places such as Reno, street running in Lansing, and lots of other picturesque places along the line. The chase ends in McGregor, IA as the train snakes through one of the many curves along this neat piece of railroad. Should the KCS and CP merger happen, this route could get A LOT busier.
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #royal #railway @Canadian Pacific @DJI Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Funeral Train on the BNSF RailwaySD4575002022-10-17 | A Funeral Train is the name given to train when it is moving retired, old, or dead locomotives. These can just a train by itself, or a large block of old locomotives near the head end of a freight train.
In this video, we'll two two of these Funeral Trains with lots of old, sold, and retired power. The first train was shot at University, on the south end of Northtown Yard. Right behind the lead power of the BRCGFD was a mix of former Santa Fe locomotives such as a GP30, SD45-2, SD75 (former Super Fleet, BN SD40-2, and a repainted SD75. After getting a crew change at Northtown Yard, we'll see the train once more racing by at Osborne Road in Fridley. The second of these unique trains shot at Union Jct in Saint Paul, MN. This particular train had a GP30, SD75, and slugs on it. I do not know where these locomotives were off to, but had been informed the were off of the BNSF roster, and sold for scrap. Sad to see that older power go away!
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #diesel #railway @BNSF Railway Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Classic EMD Power On The Canadian Pacific -Former Soo and Milwaukee Road!-SD4575002022-10-10 | Old EMD power from the 1960s/70s still clings to life, and earns its keep. well into 2022 on the Canadian Pacific. Former Soo Line and Milwaukee Road geeps have been rebuilt and given a new lease on life! These locomotives fit right in on locals, and other jobs in the Twin Cities area.
Starting off at Soo Line Jct, we'll see J42 storming up the Soo Saint Paul sub with CP 4007 leading the way. This unit started out life back in Dec of 1968 as Milw 2066! After watching it pull through the curves, we'll get another view at New Brighton as it heads to Humboldt Yard. After this, we'll see the 4007 again, but this time paired up with CP 4422; a former Soo unit. As the train comes into view, we are also treated with a healthy cut of Soo Line hoppers. Once common place, they are rapidly disappearing from the rails. Once it clears New Brighton, it is seen again coming into Camden, and finally at Lyndale Ave at Humboldt East. It is always a treat to see classics like these leading, and plying the rails!
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #drone #railway @Canadian Pacific @DJI Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Rare MLW RS23 Smoking and Working on the Minnesota CommercialSD4575002022-10-03 | A rare MLW RS23, built in 1959, is used by the Minnesota Commercial, and stationed at CTM in Fridley, MN. Each time this old locomotive throttles up, it puts on a nice smoke show. The former Canadian Pacific unit is one of the few RS23s that are still around, and in daily service.
We'll start off seeing the RS23 setting out a cut of cars in New Brighton, before tacking onto a cut of loaded coil cars. The veteran locomotive made easy work of these, and sounded great as it tackled the short, yet stiff grade back to CTM. After some switching moves, and cutting away from its train, the crew of MNNR 80 tied down, and called it a day. It was a surprise to see this old school locomotive out and about!
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #diesel #railway Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Flying in a B-25J, Miss Mitchell!SD4575002022-09-30 | Flying in B-25J, Miss Mitchell!! #shorts #aviation #history
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Santa Fe on the BNSF -Former Super Fleet Power!-SD4575002022-09-26 | Santa Fe lives on the BNSF! Two former Santa Fe Super Fleet B40-8Ws were recently pulled from storage, and pressed into service in the Twin Cities area. Having been together for a few weeks, they have been bouncing from assignment to assignment.
In this video we'll chase the sharp looking duo on the Saint Cloud Local on the BNSF Staples Sub. Starting off in Elk River, the train rips through the curves, and easily moves its 49 cars with ease. After some work in Big Lake, we'll hear its horn as it blasts past County Road 50 as the rain/drizzle starts in. After this, it was routed to MT2, and is seen racing through Clear Lake as it approached Saint Cloud. Lastly, as it enters Saint Cloud, it creeps into town, giving us a nice look at what was once the pride of the Santa Fe. Nearly 30 years later, with Warbonnet Paint faded, it's still a sight on the modern day BNSF.
Keen eyes will note that the engineer was *deliberately* turning off his ditch lights whenever he saw me... This is a clear GCOR rules violation at track speed, and why a lot of these shots were taken at grade crossings.
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #power #railway @BNSF Railway Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Rare CSX SD40-2 on the BNSF with two C40-8WsSD4575002022-09-12 | Its been many years since a CSXT SD40-2 was seen leading a mainline train in Minnesota, and down the line to Wisconsin. That changed this past week when a SD40-2, and two reactivated C40-8Ws, were on a grain train. Having a locomotive like this lead has become quite rare in the past few years.
We'll chase this train from Dayton's Bluff in Saint Paul, all the way to Alma, WI on a beautiful September morning. The first scenes feature the train as it snakes past Diamond Bluff, Oakland, and Cottage Grove. The mix of older power was a welcomed sight, and the lead unit had a fantastic horn. With ditch lights flashing, and its horn sounding, it is seen again rounding the curve at Prescott. After crossing the Mississippi River, the train races at speed past Diamond Bluff, and Maiden Rock. After this, we see it a few more times before calling it a day at Alma. See this power, and these locomotives was a welcomed sight.
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #diesel #railway Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.NEW Fresh Paint on a rebuilt SD40-2 -CP 6024 on the Canadian Pacific-SD4575002022-09-05 | Canadian Pacific has been rebuilding its remaining SD40-2s, and they look fantastic wearing the 'Golden Beaver' scheme. A small number of them are getting PTC, while retaining their mechanical bells, and functioning class lights! One of these locomotives is CP 6024, and it has been operating in the Twin Cities for the past few weeks.
In this video we'll see CP 6024 on Jobs J37 and J42. These are locally known as 'The Northfield Job' and 'Humboldt Ave Transfer'. Starting off with the Northfield Job, we'll watch it head from Saint Paul to Northfield. One VERY neat fact with this unit is that it still has working class lights! As it comes into frame, we'll see that they are lit up, and shining brightly. After seeing the train a few times, on J37 we'll get a nice side shot of it on the HAT, also known as J42. As it works up the Saint Paul Sub, it puts on a nice show as it works hard tp beat the stiff grade. Lastly, we'll see it once more heading down Shoreham Hill as it heads to Humboldt Yard. I hope more CP SD40s get PTC upon being rebuilt, and find the Twin Cities as their new home.
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #paint #railway @Canadian Pacific Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Trains in Heavy Blinding Snow -Blizzard Conditions-SD4575002022-08-29 | Winter can be a formidable obstacle for railroads, especially during blizzard conditions with heavy, blinding snow. In this video, we'll see two different trains fighting the elements, roaring up grades, and fighting blinding snow in a blizzard.
The first train we'll see is CN's L506 with a trio of SD60s. It had started snowing earlier in the day, and had only gotten more intense as the day progressed. By the time the video was taken, conditions were that of a blizzard. We'll see the trio of EMDs scream past Dellwood as they headed towards Withrow. The second train was CP 499 at New Brighton, MN. Lots of heavy, large snowflakes, had covered everything. This was the first train on the line, and it kicked up a lot a of snow in the process making for a neat sight!
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #snow #railway @Canadian Pacific Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.SD40-2s on the Staples Sub -BNSF Action in Minnesota-SD4575002022-08-22 | The SD40-2 is still hard at work on the BNSF Railway, but seeing them on the main is becoming rarer, and harder to come by. While BNSF still rosters a sizable fleet of these workhouses, they tend to stay on locals, or in yard service. They make it out onto the mainline from time to time, and always put on a show.
We'll start off chasing BNSF 1833, with BNSF 1943, as it leads a mainline train west on the Staples Sub. We'll first run into the EMD duo south of Royalton as they blow for Halfway Crossing. After some quick driving, we see them again south of Rice before beating them to Saint Cloud. Saint Cloud still has a depot, and LOTS of Amtrak signs all over the place. After blowing their horn, and clearing through town, the train is seen two more times. They split the signals in Clear Lake, and rip through the curves in Elk River with a lengthy train behind them. Sights like this never get old!
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #history #railway @BNSF Railway @Amtrak Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.CSX C40-8Ws On The Union Pacific in Minnesota -Coke Train Action-SD4575002022-08-15 | When it first hit the rails over 30 years ago, the GE C40-8W was a cutting edge, modern locomotive. Now, they are being purged from class ones, or stored, and have an uncertain future. Recently, a number of these on CSX were reactivated, and have been plying the rails again.
In this video, we'll see a trio of CSXT C40-8Ws working a coke train on the Union Pacific, and later a duo on the SSIT (South Saint Paul to Itasca). We first see the coke train heading towards South Saint Paul at Lexington Ave. After it passes, we'll see it cross The Mississippi River and traverse the Robert St Lift Bridge. This structure is slated to be replaced in a few years. After this, we'll chase it to Roseport before calling it a day. In the final shots, we'll see a duo of CSX dash 8s leading the SSIT at Coon Creek. While its great to see these units, they are in HP payback service. Generally, that means the end is near for them on their home railroad.
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #railway #drone @CSX @Union Pacific Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Rebuilt SD40-2 in NEW Fresh Paint -CP 6025 on the Canadian Pacific-SD4575002022-08-08 | Canadian Pacific has been rebuilding its remaining SD40-2s, and they look fantastic wearing the 'Golden Beaver' scheme. A small number of them are even getting PTC, while retaining their mechanical bells. One of these locomotives with PTC, is CP 6025, and it has been operating in the Twin Cities for the duration of the summer.
In this video we'll see CP 6025 being broken in around the Twin Cities on Jobs J37 and J42. These are known as 'The Northfield Job' and 'Humboldt Ave Transfer'. Starting off with the Northfield Job, we'll get a birds eye view at Castle Rock as they train works its way towards Rosemount to interchange with Progressive Rail. After switching for a bit, they train heads off to Saint Paul Yard, and we see it once more in Rosemount with the sun setting. In the final shots, the rebuilt SD40-2 is seen leading the HAT in Saint Paul. It puts on a nice show as it pulls a lengthy train behind it. One thing that also made this notable was the long cut of MultiMark ballast cars at the end of the train. These were going to Waterloo to be loaded for various track projects. I hope more CP SD40s get PTC upon being rebuilt, and find the Twin Cities as their new home.
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #paint #railway @DJI Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.GP15s on Union Pacifics Job 75 Local -Bad Track, A Rarely Shot Line, and Roots Blown EMDs-SD4575002022-08-01 | Union Pacific is the last class 1 railroad in the United States to have a fleet of EMD GP15s, aka "baby tunnel motors", working. While UP never purchased them directly, they acquired them through mergers with the the Missouri Pacific and CNW.
In this video, we'll see a former MoPac GP15-1, still in NLR paint, working Job 75 near Saint Paul's Holman Field. This Job is RARELY shot, let alone filmed. We'll see four different days of shooting, it spliced together, in this video. The little unit sounded great with its roots blown engine, and had a very throaty sound. In one case, it a GP15-1 was also paired up with a UP GP60. We'll see it traverse some BAD track on the branch line to CHS, and pass the airport. When the train is heading back to Saint Paul, a private jet goes right overhead! After switching out CHS, we'll see the train head back to SSP Yard, and working hard!
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #diesel #railway @Union Pacific Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.B-25 Mitchell Bomber Startup, Takeoff, and Flights -Miss Mitchell-SD4575002022-07-25 | Come take a ride in Miss Mitchell, a beautifully restored B-25J built in 1944 for the United States Army Air Corps. Today it is part of the Commemorative Air Force's Minnesota Wing, and takes to the skies multiple times a year. In this video, we'll see it startup, take off, fly overhead, and even go up in it for a flight!
Starting off, we'll see Miss Mitchell startup her large radial engines for a history flight day. After starting up, it'll taxi past, and take to the skies! Following this, we'll see this warbird take the to skies again, but with an SNJ and BT-13 trainer. These planes were part of a 4th of July Flyover event. Lastly, the flight in the 25! We'll be upfront in the nose for a while as we get an incredible view from the sky. The view was spectacular! After this, we'll go back to the cockpit while seeing the crew pilot the plane in some curves. This was an AMAZING experience
The Commemorative Air Force is a phenomenal organization. More on the MN Wing can be found here: cafmn.org Book a flight on the B-25, or another once of their planes: cafmn.org/history-flights.html
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #aviation #history #flight Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Milwaukee Road Survivors on the Canadian PacificSD4575002022-07-18 | The Milwaukee Road disappeared into railroad history back in 1986, but a handful of its locomotives still ply the rails well into 2022! Canadian Pacific rebuilt a small number for Milw power, and they are currently operating in the Twin Cities area on a number of locals. This video will highlight them working the HAT (J42) and The Northfield Job (J37).
Starting off on the Soo Saint Paul Sub, we'll see CP 4007 screaming up the hill with J42, The HAT, behind it. It appeared to be doing most of the work, as it lugged a GP20C-ECO and CN ES44 behind it. After this, we caught up to it again at New Brighton. Here the 4007 had to wait for the Minnesota Commercial to clear before moving again. After they got moving, we will also see a large cut of Soo Line hoppers. These are becoming rarer and rarer... Switching gears to J37, The Northfield, we'll see CP 4008 in the same day heading back to Saint Paul. We'll first see them in Northfield after interchanging with Progressive Rail. After seeing them blast out of town, they are seen twice more. Once at Jct Switch in Inver Grove, and a final time at South Saint Paul with a pair of Search Light Signals.
While they might not be in Milwaukee Road paint anymore, it is great to see these EMDs alive and well! They are pushing 65+ years of service life!!
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #survivor #railway Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.MLW RS18 on the Minnesota Commercial in the rain -Old school locomotive with a K3L Horn-SD4575002022-07-11 | The Minnesota Commercial Railway rosters a unique, and rare MLW RS18. The 83 was built back in 1958 for the Canadian Pacific Railway, and is still in active revenue service with the MNNR. While it typically stays on the Hennepin Job, it does see service on other assignments such as the Hugo Job.
In this video we'll watch this RS18u working on the Hugo job on a cool and rainy spring day. The train puts up some smoke as it lugs its short train along some rough track on its way west. Along the way, we'll see the train pass through some Roseville, and take the connection at Belt Line Crossing.
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #diesel #railway Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.SD40-2s roaring on the BNSF Railway -Mainline Action and Run 8!-SD4575002022-07-04 | The SD40-2s was once the backbone, and staple of American railroads back in its day. BNSF still rosters a sizable fleet of these workhouses. They make it out onto the mainline from time to time, and always put on a show.
We'll start off chasing BNSF 1833, with BNSF 1943, as it leads a mainline train west on the Staples Sub in the form of a NTWGFD. We first see it as it eases through the curves in Elk River, and many other places. Along the way, we'll hear its EMD 645 V16 roar in run 8, and watch it from the sky in several places as it heads west. Being the sole power, they duo sounded fantastic!! The second train is powered by two SD40-2s, and a geep third out. We'll see it on a VERY hot summer day (100+ degrees out), and watch it roar down the mainline. Later, we'll get nice and close at the Fridley NorthStar Station as the train arrives at Northtown Yard.
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #speed #railway @BNSF Railway Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Progressive Rails Jesse James Line -GP15s, switching, drone views, and older locomotives-SD4575002022-06-27 | Progressive Rail's Jesse James Line in Minnesota runs on former MN&S track, and currently uses classic EMD GP15s for power. These locomotives are perfect for negotiating the tight curves, rough track, and the industrial areas the railroad serves. These units are currently in use as PGR 40 and the other large six axel unit, are not in use. Progressive has the classic EMD switcher in Lakeville in MN&S colors, a fitting homage to the lines heritage; especially since the 37 is a former Minneapolis, Northfield, and Southern unit (Blt in Dec of 1966).
We start off in Northfield, and as we waited for the duo of former UP GP15s to depart for Lakeville, a horn was heard in the distance. PGRs Job from Canon Falls made a surprise appearance as it pulled past the depot with a single MP15AC for power. Once it has passed, the job to Lakeville was on its way! On the way to Lakeville, we'll see some neat views from the drone near Greenvale and Eureka, including pacing from the sky. Once the train arrived in Lakeville, PGR 37 came out of the industrial park with a cut of cars to be brought back down to Northfield. The industrial park is right next to an airport, and we'll see an airplane doing touch and goes as the railroad goes about its daily work. After swapping cars, the pair of former Union Pacific, and originally MoPac, EMDs heads back to Northfield to call it a day. This is a neat operation to photograph and shoot!
Progressive has done a wonderful job in bringing back business to this route, and continues to grow!
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #local #railway @DJI Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.BNSF Railways Tramp Job -Green SD40-2s, and old school EMDs-SD4575002022-06-20 | BNSF has the most trackage in the Twin Cities area, and operates a number of locals. One of these is called 'The Tramp Job' and it works industries along the Midway Sub, Saint Paul Sub, and also interchanges with the Minnesota Commercial.
In this video, we'll chase the Tramp Job are the Twin Cities over the course of a few days, highlighting areas it switches, and serves. We'll start off seeing two veteran EMDs tackling the Midway Sub at Jackson Street with a number of covered hoppers bound for Strategic Materials. They ship out crushed glass and plastics to be recycled. After this, we'll see The Tramp coming back from the Minnesota Commercial with a former Burlington Northern SD40-2 (BNSF 1943) leading the way. After shooting it at Van Buren, we'll see it once more as it returns to Northtown Yard. The classic green looked great in the afternoon sun. Lastly, we'll see another pair of geeps running past Union Jct before switching out Strategic again. As we watch them work this customer, we'll see CP's J42 'The HAT" as it rolls by with a pair of SD30C-ECOs. Lastly, after finishing up, we'll see the train once more at Midway as they head back to Northtown Yard. This is a neat operation that works a LOT of the Twin Cities.
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #diesel #railway @BNSF Railway Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Minnesota Commercials Hugo Job -RARE SF30B and a B23-7-SD4575002022-06-13 | The Minnesota Commercial Railway operates a route in the Twin Cities called the Hugo Line. It's one of the longest, and most scenic routes, that the railroads traverses.
In this video, we'll see a B23-7 and the ONLY SF30B lugging a long, and heavy Hugo Job up the grade at Hennepin Ave in Minneapolis. While it had two locomotives, the entire train was loaded heading out, so the power got a decent workout! Plenty of horn action, GE chugging, jointed rail, some bad track, and lots of locations are seen during this chase. To top it all off, it had a very friendly crew on it too!
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #diesel #railway @General Electric Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Amtraks Day One Unit -Amtrak 301 ALC-42 Charger-SD4575002022-06-06 | Amtrak in slowing replacing its aging fleet of GE P42s with the ALC-42 Siemens Chargers. One these new Chargers is Amtrak 301, which is specially painted in the 'Day One' scheme. When Amtrak was first formed, only ONE unity ever worse this scheme. As a tribute to Amtrak's 50th, this paint scheme was resurrected, and applied to the 301.
We'll chase, and see this unit, in a few different places in the Twin Cities. Starting off in Fridley, we'll see it race into town, and get a drone view at Osborne Road. After it departs Saint Paul's Union Depot, we catch a view of it from Daytons Bluff, and hear it accelerating down the main. Other places include Merriam Park, Chestnut St, Van Buren, and a few other locations.
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #railway #new @Amtrak Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Horn Show with an SD40-2 and a B40-8W on the BNSF RailwaySD4575002022-05-30 | The classic EMD SD40-2, and small fleet of GE B40-8Ws, still have a home on on the BNSF Railway well into 2022. These former Burlington Northern, and Santa Fe units look and sounded great; especially when you get a horn show from the crew!
Starting off, we'll see a recently reactivated former Santa Fe GE B40-8W leading the SUPNTW. Trailing is a former Burlington Northern SD40-2 which was smoking a great deal! After they pass, we'll see the same set of power, but with the 40-2 leading a CWR train up the Saint Paul Sub. The crew of the old school EMD put on a wonderful show as it screamed by in run 8, smoked, and sounding its horn as it raced by. The classic EMD looked and sounded great as it screamed past, and roared up the hill.
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #diesel #railway @BNSF Railway Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Switching Action on The Minnesota Commercial with Old GEs working hardSD4575002022-05-23 | The Minnesota Commercial Railway has unique roster of old GE and ALCo locomotives that are in daily service. One of the best places to see them hard at work, is on The Hump, switching out countless numbers of cars. In this case, two former Conrail B23-7s are HARD at work pounding the yard leads, and making switch moves. The classic GE chugging sounded wonderful.
Starting off, we'll get an overhead view of the Minnesota Commercials yard from Transfer Road, in Saint Paul, MN. It was a busy place as the Hugo Job was getting back, and the BNCP was delivering a cut of cars. As this was taking the place, MNNR 2002 and 1983 were getting a workout as they switched out some large cuts of cars. With each pull, and shove, they units made some great noise as they went to run 8. While the Hump was working, we'll see the Hugo's power working around the yard, grabbing others cars a long the way. Tucked away are some the railways unique power, and ALCo RS27, and EMD switcher; neither of which have seen service for years.
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #diesel #railway @General Electric Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Union Pacifics Job 68 Local -YSP68 working Saint Paul w/ rough track-SD4575002022-05-16 | Union Pacific has a number of locals serving industries in the Twin Cities area, but one of the more elusive ones is YSP68, or Job 68, which works the Saint Paul Water Front and around Belt Yard. Power is usually one or two EMDs, and in this case, we are treated to a former CNW SD40-2 (Fmr CNW 6838), now rebuilt into an SD40N. Shot over a number of days, this video shows some of the places this job serves.
We start off seeing the veteran SD40 switching a long line of tank cars. The power then works its way along some old jointed rail, and bad track, before making its way towards Belt Yard. After pulling ahead, it makes two different shove moves to stash all of their cars before pulling new cars to spot. While this is happening, CP proved to be busy at work in the background! A pair of former Soo Line SD60s bring J16 (The Shakopee Job) out, and we'll see an oil train get a new crew, and blast off. We'll get one last view of the train as they head back down the line, and switch out more loads, and work the rest of the branch. Certainly a neat and undershot operation in the Twin Cities!
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #diesel #railroads @Union Pacific Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Old School B40-8Ws on the BNSF Railway -Former Santa Fe Super Fleet-SD4575002022-05-09 | Parts of the Santa Fe 'Super Fleet' lives on with the modern day BNSF Railway. Having once lead high speed intermodal trains across the desert, these locomotives are still hard at work pulling freight over 30 years later for their current owner, BNSF.
Starting off in Fridley we see a GFDNTW (Grand Forks to Northtown) freight nearing Northtown with a matched pair of GE B40-8Ws for power. These units once wore the attractive Santa Fe Silver and Red, but have been recently rebuilt and repainted into BNSF H4 colors. For some reason, these units were pulled off of the hump, and saw some mainline action. If you look closely, you can see the RCO equipment on the locomotives. The next scene features a meet at Osborne Road, and there is even an H1 C44-9W in the mix! Finally, we'll chase a NTWGFD as it races west, and into the evening sun. Seeing these classic units out on the main was a treat, and something I did not think would happen!
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #diesel #railroads @BNSF Railway Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Minneapolis Water Works Plant - BNSF Grove Job with a funky hornSD4575002022-05-02 | Next to BNSF Railways massive Northtown Yard sits the Minneapolis Water Works. The Grove Job provides it with regular service, but its hard to catch them working this location.
We start off at 44th Ave, and see the Grove Job pulling two former CNW hoppers out of the Water Works. After sounding its funky horn, and crossing East River Road, the crew put their train back together - complete with a caboose! After shoving back on former Minneapolis, Anoka & Cuyuna Range rails, the Grove Job made its way back towards 35th Ave. All the while we'll get a quick view of the Hump working in the background.
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #local #railroads @BNSF Railway Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Chasing Four older Locomotives on the Canadian National RailwaySD4575002022-04-25 | In a world where most class one trains are powered by modern EMD and GE power, Canadian National has a large fleet of EMD SD60s and SD75Is. The SD60s came second hand from the BNSF about ten years ago, and were once park of the Oakway lease fleet. The SD75Is were purchased directly by CN.
In this video, we'll see four older EMDs leading L506, and L516 in Minnesota and WI. The two SD75s came off of a CP grain train, and were picked up at Cardigan Jct. This was right around the time of the KCS merger announcement, and some said CP was salty, thus taking the power off in the Twin Cities. In the first scene, we'll see train L506 screaming through Dellwood with all four units online. Later, we'll chase it as L516 as it passes through Wisconsin. We'll see it at Somerset, New Richmond, and a final time at Emerald as the sun sets. In the final scene, a farmer is plowing his field as the train pulls past.
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #diesel #railroads @DJI Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Rapid City, Pierre & Eastern Railroad - Train MMNAU, Mankato to Aurora Freight- Great P5 HornSD4575002022-04-18 | The Rapid City, Pierre & Eastern Railroad makes a run from Mankato, MN to Aurora, SD three times a week as the MMNAU. It runs on a regular schedule, and is always a fun chase as it heads out west. Power in this video was a nice set of four SD40-2s, a large train, and they wasted NO time heading west.
Starting off in Mankato, we'll see the quartet departing in full sunlight, and making great use of its P5 horn. The quartet of orange and black EMDs rolled down some recently worked on track, and snaked through Mankato. After arriving, and lining the switch at Land of Memories Park, the train had a clear shot all the way to Tracy, MN. The chase went as far as Cobden, MN . I had hoped to shoot west of there, but that will be for another day. Along the way we'll see shots at New Ulm, Judson, and other locations along the line. Plenty of train horn (GREAT P5), smoking EMDs, run 8, classic power, and drone views are all in this chase. Its hard to beat a matched four pack of 40s well into 2022!
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #trains #diesel #drone @DJI Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Military Train with Army Tanks, M1 Abrams, , Bradleys (BFV), support vehicles, and more!SD4575002022-04-11 | A few times a year, there are rare military trains that run in Minnesota. These trains are loaded with Army Tanks, M1 Abrams, BFVs, artillery, and many other types of equipment - stretching over a mile long in length. The trains come and go from Camp Ripley, and can go anywhere in the nation for training, deployment, or if equipment needs any sort of overhaul or repair. In the video, part of Task Force 1st Combined Arms Battalion, 194th Armor, from the Minnesota National Guard , were returning from a recent deployment overseas.
We start off seeing this special train at Elk River as it negotiates the S curve in town. Directly behind the power were a line of M1 Abrams tanks, followed by support vehicles, Bradley Fighting Vehicles (BFV), medical equipment, and many other support vehicles. After a few shots, we'll catch up to them again in Big Lake, Clear Lake, Cable, and finally near Royalton to end the chase. They weren't going too terribly fast, so chasing was enjoyable, and would have been better if it wasn't so windy!
Other Military Train Videos: Camp Ripley Military Trains on the BNSF in Minnesota youtu.be/7a-B-YrcuQk Military Train loaded with tanks, artillery, and other equipment youtu.be/btjoMLADLp4 Military Train with Tanks, M1 Abrams, Bradley's (BFV), support vehicles youtu.be/mlTLgcmBZTc
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #trains #military #army @BNSF Railway @WarLeaks - Military Blog Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Rapid City, Pierre and Eastern Railroad -Spring Action on the PRC Subdivision-SD4575002022-04-04 | The Rapid City, Pierre and Eastern Railroad operates in some eye catching areas, but one of the more interesting portions is the PRC Subdivision in South Dakota. This 170 miles of rail runs from Pierre to Rapid City, and passes though desolate areas, open fields, valleys, and has its far share of bridges and grades.
In this video, we'll chase the daily east and west trains; the MRCHU (MRCHU, Manifest = Rapid City to Huron) and MHURC over the course of two different days. We first encounter a trio of SD40-2s by Capa as they slowly lug a long and heavy manifest west. After shooting them a few times, and some doing some work in Midland, the train pulls into the setting sun. On day the second day, we'll see trains swapping power in Wall, and chase both the east and west trains for a bit. We'll get lots of drone views, bridges, and rough, bad, bumpy track chocked in mud and clay. All the while, being powered by RPCEs fleet of SD40s!
Power for all of the trains seen in this video is the EMD SD40-2s. It'll be seen idling, rolling on jointed rail, run 8, and doing what they do best - pulling freight decades after they were built. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the RCP&E along the famed PRC Subdivision!
Other videos on the PRC: Rapid City, Pierre, and Eastern Railroad - West End Ops youtu.be/uR7uESA9sYM Pipe train across the PRC: youtu.be/TVxabQOpfR8 Rapid City, Pierre and Eastern Railroad -PRC Subdivision, Drones, SD40-2s, and more- youtu.be/nbrxI9LzypU
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #diesel #railroads @DJI Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.CN 3023 -EJ&E Heritage Unit in the Twin Cities area-SD4575002022-03-28 | Canadian National has painted several of its modern locomotives into Heritage paint in memory of railroads it has acquired over the years. One of these is CN 3023, which proudly wears the Elgin, Joliet, and Eastern Railroads colors. The stroking orange, and J Ball logo, look great on this modern ET44AC locomotive. The J was taken over by the CN back in 2009.
Starting off at Foley Wye, we'll see the EJ&E unit waiting to have permission to turn their power. The SD70M-2 lacked PTC, and to the great joy of railfans, meant that the EJ&E unit would lead east! After Transfer 1 (H36) passed, the two locomotives made their way around the wye before heading back to New Brighton. We'll get a nice close up of the heritage unit before it started to pull again. Sadly though, it briefly shut down, and the M-2 did all the work! After this, the train is caught again in Dellwood, and Somerset. The drone provides some excellent aerial views as the train raced east. The EJ&E unit was very well done, and a fine tribute to this fallen flag.
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #heritage #railroads Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.SD40-2s on the BNSF Railway -Prime 920 Horn, Run 8, and action on the mainline-SD4575002022-03-21 | The SD40-2s was once the backbone, and staple of railroads back in its day. BNSF still rosters a fleet, which make it out onto the mainline from time to time.
We'll start off in the Fall of 2021 chasing BNSF 1687, with an SD60M, as it leads a mainline train west on the Staples Sub. Along the way, we'll hear its fouled Prime 920 horn, and watch it be overtaken by a Z train. The second train is powered by two SD40-2s, and is seen screaming through Fridley, MN as it accelerates west. The two units were really giving it their all to get the heavy manifest moving, and up to track speed.
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #diesel #railroads @BNSF Railway Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Classic Trains: EMD power on the CN -SD40-2Ws, GP40-2W, the Soo Line High Bridge, and more-SD4575002022-03-14 | Canadian National Railway once had a massive fleet of SD40-2Ws, and GP40-2Ws. These were some of the first wide cab units to ply the rails, and were distinctly Canadian. Since they were first introduced, only a small number of these units are still active on the CN to this day. Seeing them in the CN Zebra Scheme is an even harder sight.
In this video, we'll be treated to seeing CN SD40-2Ws and a GP40-2W leading, and working train L506 in the Twin Cities, MN area. Starting off, we'll see CN 5341 heading east with a large train in Arden Hills. In the first shot, it looks like the train will hit a low hanging wire, but it just clears it! After this, we'll see the train again as it approaches Withrow with its horn blaring. IN the next scenes, we'll see the train working New Brighton before heading east. After this, we'll see it soaring over the Soo Line High Bridge in some nice evening sun. Lastly, a GP40-2W is seen leading two SD60s. After working New Brighton, it is seen throttling up in Dellwood as it races by.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Track Used: Song: Y&V - Lune [NCS Release] Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds Free Download/Stream: http://ncs.io/lune Watch: http://youtu.be/n79aphwhpW0 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #diesel #railroads @NoCopyrightSounds Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Train Snow Plowing Action -Ice, Drift Busting, Drone views and more!-SD4575002022-03-07 | In order to keep the tracks clear for trains, railroads across the state of Minnesota have been putting these large, mesmerizing, and impressive plows to good use. We'll chase one of these steel titans on the BNSF Railway from the Twin Ports to Grand Rapids, MN in this video.
Starting off in Brookston, we'll see a former Great Northern plow working its way along the tracks. Power for this movement was a pair of classic EMD geeps. With its wings out, it kicked up snow, cleared a wide swath, and demolished drifts in its path. It was quite a sight at grade crossings where snow, ice, and other debris were sent into the sky due to the force and power. Along the way way, the drone offers some unique views of the action! In one of the last shots, I even got buried in all of the slush kicked up!
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #trains #snowplow #plowing @BNSF Railway Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Trains and Snow in the Twin Cities -CN SD60s, Blizzard conditions, and former Soo Line locomotives-SD4575002022-02-28 | Winter adds a whole new level to train operations, and makes for some neat scenes along the tracks. Even in blinding, blizzard conditions, the trains keep rolling, and kick up some neat snow as they plow through piles of fresh snow.
In this video, we'll see a number of trains running in the Twin Cities, MN area during, and after a snowstorm. Starting off with the daily Canadian National manifest into the area, we'll see two SD60s cut through the snow as they solider onto New Brighton. After watching them perform some switch moves in heavy snow, we'll see them cruising down to Northtown Yard. Hot in their heels was CP 499. This train cut through the recently plowed snow, and kicked up a lot of powder a long the way. Finally, we'll see H42, The Humboldt Ave Transfer, with all former Soo Line power; two SD60s, and a GP38-2. They are seen after the snow was finished, and crawling through New Brighton.
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #diesel #railroads Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Brand New Siemens Chargers on Amtrak and Specially Painted P42s -First run on The Empire Builder-SD4575002022-02-21 | Amtrak is slowly replacing its aging fleet of GE P42s with the Siemens Charger. This video features *their very first* runs leading The Empire Builder in the Twin Cities area in February of 2022. Also included are clips of a specially painted P42, Amtrak 160, and a shot of a typical Amtrak train mixed in as well. Units 301 and 161 have been painted in a special heritage/anniversary paint scheme celebrating Amtrak's 50th.
Starting off in Anoka, we'll see Amtrak 160 racing west through the station under the cover of darkness. This unit has been dubbed 'The Pepsi Can Unit' due to its resemblance to how a can of Pepsi looks. After this, we'll see a very late running Empire Builder with two brand new Chargers, the 160, and another P42. It is seen at BNSF's University, and again on Shortline Hill as the sun starts to set. This was a VERY colorful set of power, and a throwback to Amtrak's early rainbow days with mixed sets of locomotives. After this, we'll see the 160 again, leading in morning sun as it screams through Newport, MN. We even get a wave from the engineer! After this, we'll see a 'normal' Amtrak train with three of the aging P42s screaming through Fridley. Lastly, we'll see Amtrak 300 departing Saint Paul with another Charger second out. The face of Amtrak is slowly changing!
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #amtrak #railroads @Amtrak @Siemens Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Rapid City, Pierre, and Eastern Railroads Belle Turn -SD40-2s, Bad Track, Smoking and Rocking-SD4575002022-02-14 | The Rapid City, Pierre and Eastern Railroad operates a branch going north from Rapid City SD to Colony WY. The route features a roller coaster profile; lots of curves, grades, bad track, and hills to contend with gives the RCP&E power a work out! The lines main product being shipped is bentonite clay; this is used in the steel industry, paper, cosmetics, and even making kitty litter! This was shot over the course of two days, and features most of the line.
The trio of SD40-2s in this video put on a smoke show as they strain to haul their short, yet heavy train of clay to Rapid City and back to Belle Fourche. We'll start off outside of Belle Fourche as they train roars by with loads in tow. After this we see it in Saint Onge as the train smokes, rocks on some low joints, and sounds wonderful as it roars by. After a few more shots, and seeing them in run 8, we'll catch them later in the day in Rapid City heading back to Belle Fourche. After negotiating Rapid, we'll see them in places such as Tilford, and the picturesque cut at Whitewood. Heavy storms were rolling in, and we get one more shot north of Whitewood. As the track rolls over rough track, it picks up speed as the storm looms in the distance.
The beauty of this line is accentuated by the Black Hills looming in the distance, and rolling hills along this line. I'll be back in the near future to shoot this again!
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #diesel #railroads Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Wisconsin and Southerns T004, T006, and Geeps around Janesville -switching, drones, SD40-2s & more-SD4575002022-02-07 | On a beautiful March morning, we'll see a number of Wisconsin and Southern's sharp looking gray and red EMDs working various trains in Janesville, WI. This was a few months before the former UP SD60Ms showed up, and everything was still in matching paint.
Starting off, we'll see a GP38-2 working Y301 around the yard in Janesville. The drone grabs us some neat views of the diesel facility, and the Anniversary Unit basking in the morning sun. After shuffling a few cars, and making a few moves, we turn our attention to train T004 with a trio of SD40s. We run into it around Lima Center, and chase it back to Janesville where we see it perform a number of switch moves. After it cuts off, T006 comes into the picture as it breaks its train up, and shoves into the yard. Both of these trains had trios of EMDs, and looked great. After T006 was done making its moves, T004 pulled a cut of cars off of the Monroe Line. These included a number of former Rock Island hoppers, and other heritage cars. The final shots show T004 shoving back onto its train, before calling it a day. The EMDs in the video were a mix of Rock Island, and DRGW, B&O, and other railroads.
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #diesel #railroads @DJI Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Progressive Rails Eagandale Line -Switching, industrial railroading, rough track, and drone views-SD4575002022-01-31 | Progressive Rail's Eagandale Line in Minnesota runs on former Milwaukee Road track, and uses a classic EMD SW1500 and MP15AC for power. These locomotives are perfect for negotiating the tight curves, rough track, bumps, and the maze of rails in industrial areas the railroad serves. Progressive has done wonders to bring back traffic on this route, and grow business along the line.
Starting off, we'll see the two EMD switchers working Gopher Resources in Eagan. After a few moves, they head down the line to run around their train to drop lumber off at Villaume Industries Inc. Upon crossing Lone Oak Road, they shoved down the McKee spur to serve another customer before heading back to Dodd Rodd. Once back at Dodd Road, they switched out Dakota County Recycling Zone. In the latter portion, shot a few weeks later, we'll see the crew switching Thomson Reuters as they spot boxcars full of paper. All in all, this is a neat route, and a lot of fun to shoot! The drone was a wonderful tool to get some different views of the operations, and see the interesting network of rails in the area.
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #diesel #railroads @Thomson Reuters Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Chasing The Iowa Interstate Railroad -Former Rock Island Route with ES44s-SD4575002022-01-24 | The Iowa Interstate Railroad operates over the former Rock Island Mainline, and has a classy black and red paint scheme. It is a class two railroad, and operates daily over 550 miles of track across Iowa and Illinois.
In this video, we'll start off in the Quad Cities and chase the daily BICB all the way to Iowa City. Starting off in Moline, we'll see the train snake its way through town, past a number of old buildings, and its horn blaring all the way. After this, we'll see it cross the impressive looking Government Bridge from Davenport, IA. The next shots feature it racing through the windy, and snow covered fields west of Walcott. At Wilton, it passes a still standing Rock Island Depot, complete with a caboose! Keen eyes will notice that while the caboose is in Rock Island colors, its actually a former Milwaukee Road caboose! The last show has the two ES44s rolling over the Iowa River in perfect afternoon light. This was a fun chase, and I hope to get back down here again sometime soon!
Instagram: instagram.com/sd457500 facebook.com/SD457500 #train #diesel #railroads Copyright 2022 Douglas Hildebrandt, all rights reserved.Old School GE U30Cs on the Lake Superior and Ishpeming Railroad -LS&I, drone views, snow, GE U30Cs-SD4575002022-01-17 | The Lake Superior and Ishpeming Railroad had some of the last GE U30Cs left in operation, but their time plying the rails has come to an end for now. At the end of the shipping season (January 15th), these classic locomotives from the 1970s were drained, and put into storage. This video features these 'U-Boats' in their final days operation; working hard pulling heavy trains of taconite for the LS&I.
In this second visit to the LS&I, we start off again seeing a 7 Tilden heading to the mine with 120 empties at the crack of dawn. With its horn blaring, the two former BN GEs break the morning silence. After a few hours, they brought the first set of loads back to Eagle Mills. The first shot is seen at Palmer Line Jct, and from the drone! High winds and bitter cold made it HARD to fly, but it was worth it to get a different perspective on this line. After this, the train is seen at M-35 crossing, just outside of the yard, lugging a heavy train. After dropping its train off, the power went back to the mines light to get the remaining 60 cars. While I waited, the CN local L549 came through Eagle Mills Jct with two SD60s, and several cars from the Mineral Range. After this, the pair of U30Cs are seen bringing another train back to Eagle Mills, and fighting through the strong winds and snow showers. After shoving into Eagles Yard, the green duo was put onto a 3 Tilden, and lead in full afternoon sun. A fitting last view of these classic units!!
The LS&I was BUSY on this last visit, and it was great to see the green units. It was wonderful to see these classic diesels in operation before they were put into storage.