Western Pacific FP7 locomotive 805-A
Builder: Electro-Motive Division of General Motors
Built: January, 1950 Before the CZ even turned a wheel, the WP recognized that its new fleet of Electro-Motive Division F3 locomotives would not be enough power to cover the train's needs. Therefore, an order was placed with EMD for 2
A-B-A sets of its FP7/F7B models to finish out the fleet. The locomotives entered service in early 1950 and most ran until the end of CZ service. In the early 1970's, WP was rapidly retiring its F-units. All of the former CZ
units were traded in on newer units. However, a twist of fate saved the 805A when the WP ordered General Electric U23B locomotives. The 805A was traded in against U-boat 2260 and resold by General Electric to a shortline. All
other WP CZ power was traded in to EMD, which has a long-standing policy of scrapping trade-ins. Because of this, the 805A has become the last remaining WP passenger diesel and one of only two locomotives built specifically for the CZ to
still exist. Exterior work began soon after the FRRS acquired this historic locomotive. The 805-A was In the last several years, a mechanical restoration has been occuring on the 805-A with a goal of getting the locomotive mainline ready by 2009. Leading this effort are the talented team of
Dave McClain and Larry Hanlon. Among the recent events have been the acquisition of replacement dynamic brake grids and a lot of engine work.
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