Märklin 37991 Sound

Union Pacific “Big Boy” 4012

Model Features

• Digital decoder with controllable high-efficiency drive, sound functions, and multiple auxiliary features.
• Powerful motor with bell-shaped armature and flywheel mounted in the boiler.
• 8 powered axles with 4 traction tires for maximum pulling strength.
• Articulated frame for smooth operation through tight curves.
• Authentic Boxpok wheels.
• Spring-mounted center driving axles for improved running performance.
• LED lighting for headlights, tender lights, and number boards (maintenance-free).
• Prepared for 2 smoke generators (Seuthe No. 11), with contacts permanently installed.
• Lighting functions (headlights, number boards, cab lighting) operate conventionally and are fully digitally controllable.
• Digital sound suite including steam chuffs synchronized to speed, bell, whistle, brake squeal, and acceleration/brake delay.
• Additional sound effects available when operated with a Central Station (60212).
• High-quality speaker in the tender with adjustable volume.
• Close coupling between locomotive and tender; coupler hooks included for both ends.
• Hinged steam lines connected to the cylinders for realistic appearance.
• Rich detailing with separately applied metal grab irons and numerous fine components.
• Figures included: locomotive engineer and fireman for the cab.
• Length over buffers: 46.5 cm (18-5/16").
• Delivered in a premium wooden case.

History, Union Pacific Big Boy 4012

Union Pacific 4012 is one of the twenty-five famous 4-8-8-4 “Big Boy” steam locomotives built for the Union Pacific Railroad by the American Locomotive Company (ALCO). These locomotives were designed to pull extremely heavy freight trains over the steep grades of the Wasatch Mountains between Ogden, Utah, and Green River, Wyoming.

Construction and Early Service

• Built: November 1941
• Builder: ALCO, Schenectady, New York
• Class: 4884-1 “Big Boy”
• Purpose: Heavy freight hauling over mountainous terrain

During its active service, No. 4012 hauled thousands of tons of freight across the UP system. Like the rest of the Big Boys, it proved exceptionally powerful and reliable, becoming one of the icons of American steam railroading.

Retirement

Retired in 1962. By the early 1960s, diesel locomotives had replaced steam across most of the Union Pacific network. No. 4012 was officially retired after approximately 20 years in freight service.

Preservation

After retirement, No. 4012 was purchased by the Steamtown Foundation and moved to Bellows Falls, Vermont, where it became part of their growing museum collection. When Steamtown relocated, No. 4012 was transferred to its current home at the:

Steamtown National Historic Site

Location: Scranton, Pennsylvania
Owner: National Park Service

It is one of the best-preserved Big Boys on display today and remains a major attraction due to its massive size and historical importance.

Current Status

• Condition: Static display (non-operational)
• Notable: One of eight surviving Big Boys
• Restoration: No operational restoration planned; kept as a display locomotive

In 2021–2022, the locomotive underwent cosmetic refurbishment, including cleaning, repainting, and stabilizing its exterior.

History, Union Pacific Big Boy 4014

Union Pacific “Big Boy” 4014 – The World’s Largest Operating Steam Locomotive

UP 4014 is a fully restored 4-8-8-4 “Big Boy” steam locomotive, originally built in 1941 by the American Locomotive Company. Designed for hauling heavy freight through the Wasatch Mountains, it served the Union Pacific until 1961, after which it was placed on public display in California.

Reacquired by Union Pacific in 2013, No. 4014 underwent an extensive restoration at the UP Steam Shop in Cheyenne, Wyoming. In 2019, it ran under its own power for the first time in nearly 60 years—making it the largest operational steam locomotive in the world, and the only running Big Boy of the eight preserved.

Today, UP 4014 operates in special excursion service as part of the Union Pacific Heritage Fleet..

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