The Santa Fe FP45 will undergo a full cosmetic restoration in Kansas City, bringing the historic locomotive back to its iconic Super Fleet appearance for the Wichita museum. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The Santa Fe FP45 will undergo a full cosmetic restoration in Kansas City, bringing the historic locomotive back to its iconic Super Fleet appearance for the Wichita museum.
Source, photo: railfan.com

Santa Fe FP45 Restoration and Historical Legacy

The Great Plains Transportation Museum has moved forward with its plan to restore its legendary Santa Fe FP45. The locomotive, built by EMD in 1967, first powered high-speed passenger trains during the golden era of rail travel.

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When passenger service ended in 1971, the unit shifted to freight operations under Santa Fe and later BNSF Railway. It remained in service until 1998, when it was retired and donated to the Wichita-based museum.

For the past two years, the museum has raised funds for this restoration. Donations from railfans and support from actor Michael Gross, famous for his role in Family Ties, helped make the project possible.

Santa Fe FP45 Paint and Visitor Experience

The cosmetic work will feature the striking red-and-silver Super Fleet scheme, introduced in 1989 under President Mike Haverty. The locomotive last received a full repaint in January 1990, making this update long overdue.

Museum president Heather Gatton highlighted the importance of this milestone. She emphasized that the restoration not only preserves history but also offers visitors a chance to connect with one of EMD’s most iconic models.

Once completed, the FP45 will return to Wichita as the centerpiece of the museum. Its refreshed appearance will engage visitors and strengthen its role in educating the public about American rail history.

Source, photo: railfan.com

What is the Santa Fe FP45?

The Santa Fe FP45 is a 1967 EMD-built locomotive known for its high-speed passenger service and later freight operations with Santa Fe and BNSF Railway.

Where is the Santa Fe FP45 being restored?

The locomotive is at Mid-America Car in Kansas City, where crews are performing a detailed cosmetic restoration.

When will the restored Santa Fe FP45 return to the museum?

The museum expects the locomotive to return later this year for display, becoming a key highlight for visitors in Wichita.

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