This Union Pacific GE U30C is equipped with canvas-type cab awnings (aka sunshades) in lieu of the typical metal awnings. When not in use, these particular awnings were equipped with straps which would allow one to store (or 'roll-up') the awning. This explains the lack of paint.
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I forgot to add that canvas cab awnings date back to the steam era. Most steam locomotives were equipped with canvas-type cab awnings. Here is an image of an Illinois Central GP9 with a canvas cab awning in the extended position:
http://www.railpictures.net/viewphoto.php?id=185445&nseq=16
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