New Amtrak Heritage Unit Breaks Down, Union Pacific Freight Locomotives Tow It Over Donner Pass!

5/17/23:
On May 17th I was trackside along the famous Donner Pass Route in Northern California filming the 2023 Western Series (look for full videos to come soon). Amtrak #5, the California Zephyr, was running 8-9 hours late this day, and when it came around the corner, we saw why; two UP motors led the way, making it clear that the Amtrak power broke down en route. Making it more interesting, was the fact that the original Amtrak leader was the new Phase IV heritage unit, #164. The freight locomotives, the leader being ex-SP, combined with the Amtrak heritage unit made for a once-in-a-lifetime catch (especially with the P42s being retired soon) on one of America's most famous rail routes. We chased the train over the pass and got some of my all favorite shots of the interesting consist. Enjoy!
Subdivision(s):
Union Pacific Roseville Subdivision
Location(s) In Order of Appearance
Truckee, CA
Norden, CA
Yuba Gap, CA
Thanks For Watching & Enjoy!
(c)2023 River Line Productions All Rights Reserved

[@NorthCountryTrains]

I swear the most crazy things happen and follow you around the country 😂. Professional coverage as always and beautiful scenes!

[@RiverLineProductions]

Thanks, Harrison, glad you enjoyed it!

[@davidztog9011]

So that's why it was facing the rear and third in line when I caught it in Commerce City.
Thanks for sharing. 👍🐾👍

[@RiverLineProductions]

Glad I could shed some light on the situation. Thanks for watching!

[@davidztog9011]

@@RiverLineProductions I saw on Heritage Units Map that it was leading when it left California. 👍

[@TimsTrainsChaser]

Nice catches ❤

[@RiverLineProductions]

Thanks!

[@brianfalzon6739]

Nice catch

[@RiverLineProductions]

Thanks!

[@Alexzander-mk6kv]

What Happened to Amtrak 164

[@RiverLineProductions]

It failed to load, so it could not lead the train the for the rest of the trip