Wartime restrictions of materials made unavailable certain steel alloys, resulting in the 2900 series being the heaviest of the 4-8-4 "Northern" locomotives built. The 2912 with tender weighs just under a million pounds. The 2900's were also among the fastest, carrying 300 lbs. boiler pressure and 80" diameter drivers.
They usually served in passenger service between LaJunta, Colorado and Los Angeles, California. Northerns, however, were "general purpose" engines and could be seen on both passenger and freight consists.

The PRF is currently studying the most cost-effective approach to restore the 2912 to its original appearance so that it may be displayed to future generations for many years to come. It has been determined to be too costly to bring it back to steam.

A decision has been taken to cosmetically restore the loco - a quote of C$250,000 has been received. Funding is underway.