As the sun sinks toward the horizon, NS local A85 crosses over the Tennessee River after working industries around Madison. So too does a metaphorical sunset near for the distinctive high short hoods on former Southern Railway SD40-2s such as the 3279. NS has been rebuilding these locomotives with new cabs and low short hoods for improved visibility and safety, and at the time of this photo, all but seventeen have been ‘chopped.’ While the crews will no doubt benefit from the improved working conditions, the uniqueness and character that railfans associate with the ‘high hood’ SD40-2s will be missed.
