Upon the announcement of the service delay for Western Maryland Scenic Railroad’s Steam Engine 1309, the shop team at their Ridgeley Train Yard has been hard at work.
Wes Hines, of Diversified Rail Services, shares of their progress as they head closer to the hydro test. “Exciting news! Today the last stay bolt was installed into the boiler.” Wes also mentions, “as you can see, we’ve done quite a bit of work here: flexible stay bolts replaced, caps replaced, sleeves have been replaced…”
In addition, the running gear is being worked on with wheels currently being serviced in Chattanooga, TN. Driving boxes are also being prepared for lube lines.
These improvements will ultimately increase the engine’s longevity and service in compliance with C&O Standard guidelines. Wes’ goal is to “build reliability into [the] engine but…also follow the historic precedence set by the Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad.”
With goals of a very transparent rebuild, Hines is optimistic as the shop heads into their final months of rebuilding. “We are gonna try to do updates as often as we can...to give you a picture of what we’re doing here at the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad. And we appreciate your support, come out & ride.”
Video (Interview Link): https://vimeo.com/232104918
^Firebox Work^
^Front of Smoke Box: interior lit up^
^Super-Heater Pipes^
^1309 Driver Boxes^
No comments:
Post a Comment