We have a lot of work going on year around at IRM, certainly more than I can observe and report. This story is courtesy of Dave Fullarton - story and photos by Dave Fullarton - thanks, Dave.
Generally the work on these cars has been fixing many years of "sit-itis,"
the problems that crop up after years of inactivity. The cars saw a period of
activity and actually ran a few trips on our mainline in the 1990s, but have
remained mostly idle until late this past summer. So far they've had some
cleaning done, and the lighting restored.
The cars, with lights on, late on November 12th.
Given the small number of items on the property with flourescent
lighting, they are VERY easy to see at night, compared to most of our
other cars with incandescent lighting.
The battery charging circuit has
also been restored, and the batteries themselves are strong. Currently
we are working on restoring the interior climate control and blowers.
Built in 1964, the 2000s are IRM's newest electric cars and their
electrical systems are very complex compared to most others in the
collection.
Richard Schauer is
replacing a corroded electrical contactor beneath the train (this one
is important - for the 2154's brakes!)
Of course, there are the "little
things" which are being fixed too, such as a motorman's cab window that
would not open. It is now freed up after Richard worked on it today.
Aside from electrical systems in the cars themselves, we're also working
on rehabilitating two trolley bases/poles for use with these cars.
Comments
Thu, 05-16-2013 21:52
Looking good Bob! I hope to come out soon once I'm done with school.
Wed, 05-15-2013 21:28
I was not around at the time. General discussion suggests that it was "pretty marginal" in a number of areas. Nigel
Mon, 05-13-2013 11:08
"THUMBS UP!"
Fri, 05-10-2013 02:15
No, it will not be necessary to hold any of the work waiting for the plow to be turned, end for end. Weather will be the major factor, but there will [...]
Thu, 05-09-2013 19:54
The CGW X-38 plow is really coming to life. Bob Kutella and Vic and crew need to be very proud of your collective efforts. I am very appreciative of [...]
Thu, 05-09-2013 15:20
The snowplow looks great! Are you going to apply the door and upper windows befor it is turned to continue work?
Thu, 05-09-2013 09:09
Max, Is there any progress to report yet, in regards to the installation of the poles and overhead wires? Have a good day, sir.
Wed, 05-08-2013 18:40
Thanks for the update! I still don't understand why Commonwealth #5 was removed from service. Do you know why?
Tue, 05-07-2013 09:28
Mr. Kolanowski.....I was just wondering if the Spaulding webcam will be up and running soon for us stay-at-homes. Thanks!2FP
Mon, 05-06-2013 23:04
Max, Has work begun yet on the construction phase of erecting the poles and putting up the wire? Wish I could be there to watch it happen.
Mon, 05-06-2013 23:02
Keep up the good work, Bob. Wish I could be there to help!!!!!!!
Sun, 05-05-2013 18:53
Ah yes, I have made such Jibs myself. If it were me, I would add in each corner an angled piece from the base to the Jib to act as sway bracing. [...]