Historic Soo Line Locomotives Undergo Inspection by Northern Steam Preservation

New Ulm, MN — Northern Steam Preservation (NSP) recently conducted a thorough visual inspection of two historic Soo Line GP9 locomotives: Nos. 556 and 557, now Central Regions Co-op 123 and 124. These vintage locomotives, now residing at the New Ulm Elevator, were assessed for potential acquisition to preserve their historical value.

Background and History

The locomotives, originally delivered to the Soo Line in the mid-1950s, played a vital role in replacing steam engines and modernizing rail services. Notable for their versatility and distinctive "Torpedo Tube" air reservoirs, these GP9 models served in various capacities before being sold off following the Soo Line's merger with the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1990. They eventually ended up with the I&M RailLink system, and later the Iowa Chicago and Eastern, before being acquired by the Farmer's Cooperative of Hanska.

Inspection Findings

The NSP inspection, carried out on April 22, 2022, revealed numerous issues requiring attention. Both locomotives exhibited extensive wear and tear, reflective of their 70-year operational history.

Locomotive 123:

• Structural and Mechanical Issues: Broken welds on steps, loose pedestal strap bolts, and excessive car body rot.

• FRA Defects: Broken traction motor brushes, defective brake shoes, and a poorly maintained sanding system, Missing blue card, broken windows, and out-of-date airbrake equipment.

• Other Concerns: Carbon buildup in the prime mover, rusting camshaft, and asbestos insulation.

Locomotive 124:

• Structural and Mechanical Issues: Loose handholds, car body rot, and a derailed state due to mud buildup.

• FRA Defects: Broken traction motor blower gasket, defective sanding system, lack of reflectorization, broken windows and similar airbrake issues as No. 123.

• Other Concerns: Heat marks on the camshaft, carbon buildup, and misaligned couplers, and asbestos insulation..

Next Steps

NSP recommended a running inspection with personnel familiar with the locomotives to further evaluate their operational quirks and overall condition. A comprehensive report will follow, outlining potential steps for NSP's acquisition and restoration of these historic locomotives.

The preservation efforts by NSP highlight the importance of maintaining and restoring historical rail artifacts, ensuring that the legacy of the Soo Line and its contributions to railway history are not forgotten.