While visiting Magic Kingdom this morning, we noticed that Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is about to embark on another major milestone as crews prepare the classic roller coaster for a 2026 reopening. Previously, we got a sneak peek at the new ride vehicle for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, and now we have a look at crews preparing the vehicle for a pull-through test – the next major milestone for the ride.
New Big Thunder Mountain Ride Vehicle Prepared for Pull-Through Testing at Magic Kingdom
As you can see in the photos below, crews are affixing an envelope testing mechanism to the new ride vehicle. This will allow crews to more accurately test the safety of the new vehicle, simulating how far guests may be able to reach while onboard the ride vehicle. Before we take a look at the Big Thunder Mountain ride vehicle envelope device, here’s a look back at the TRON Lightcycle Run ride vehicle going through a similar test prior to opening.
And here’s a look at the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad ride vehicle being prepared for its own pull-through test. Crews were working on installing the envelope test device when we visited this morning.
The vehicle is stationed at the end of the ride, and will be pulled through the ride along the all-new roller coaster track, starting with the load station and then continuing through the ride. Once the vehicle passes the pull-through test and envelope test, Walt Disney World can begin sending the ride through at full speed. Here’s a closer look!
As always, keep checking back with us here at BlogMickey.com as we continue to bring you the latest news, photos, and info from around the Disney Parks!