Atchison Topeka & Santa Fe (ATSF) 5961 - Rebuilt EMD SDF45

Great looking example of the ATSF "Yellowbonnet" paint scheme based on the iconic "War Bonnet" scheme. The paint scheme was begun in 1972 and carried through to 1996 with older units lasting into the BNSF era. It definitely increased visibility of the unit as was its goal. An unknown photographer took this color slide and no exact day was given..

No helper is needed as ATSF 5961 East has plenty of working power up front.

Making good time ATSF 5961 East rolls through Cable.

Two cabooses bring up the rear of ATSF 5961 East as it works its way uphill to Bealville.

With the entire train in site ATSF 5961 East rounds the horseshoe curve at Caliente and begins its climb out of California's Central Valley.

Santa Fe Cowl SDF45 #5961 east leads its train through Woodford over Southern Pacific rails towards Tehachapi Loop in 1986. It was a challenge to shoot solid B/Y consists with the ATSF/SP merger still pending

Eastbound ATSF freight passes depot