(Kohs & Company 'pre-war' production sample)

In keeping with our desire to model historically significant prototypes, we chose the Union Pacific ‘nines’ which were arguably the most successful three cylinder locomotives used in regular service in North America. The longest rigid-frame locomotive ever built, distinctive both in sight and sound, the 9000’s compiled an admirable thirty year record running fast-freight in the American West, one of the most demanding rail systems in the world,

With each of our projects we endeavor to capture the true character of our chosen prototype and that usually leads to the development of new modeling techniques with every project. Such is the case with the UP ‘nines’ which required replicating the third cylinder and Gresley valve-gear, making them function mechanically as they should and matching the site of the model in action with the sound. A fully equalized suspension with real leaf springs is the foundation that we have built on and we have not forgotten any of the features, such as prototypically mounted running boards, previously introduced. Our Union Pacific 9000 development has taken longer than any previous project and the time has been put to good use, the evidence lies in the photos and descriptions to follow throughout this project site. Our effort has been not to miss the smallest of details and to wrap them in an historically correct package.

One of the most difficult aspects at the outset of a project once the prototype has been chosen, is to select the versions that will be included in the production of the model. Again, with this prototype there were a number of prime possibilities, but keeping in mind the historical background as well as the periods of time that our customers typically model, we have chosen versions that span a time frame from the mid 30’s to the end of service for the class, the late 50’s. Encompassed in our time frame is the transition point when the Union Pacific Railroad changed from the traditional early style graphics to the modern style.

The definite reference work if you desire more background knowledge on this prototype is a two-volume set entitled, The Union Pacific Type, co-authored by William W. Kratville and John E. Bush. We are very pleased and honored to have had the opportunity to consult with both of these gentlemen in Omaha, Nebraska during the development and production of this miniature replica. This project will once again be a collaborative effort with our builder, Sun Jin Models Company in South Korea and Dallee Electronics, Incorporated. (This project was produced prior to the inception of the Union Pacific Railroad Company trademark licensing program)

• Special Dallee Electronics Sound System will be used to reproduce the unusual 3-cylinder cadence of the '9000

• Fully Equalized and Sprung Suspension with Real Fabricated Leaf Springs