Illinois Railway Museum Blog

Name That Game

Here is an action shot of a new band saw blade uncoiling itself after being tossed out of harm's way.  I bet we could script a lame tv show for this type activity.  And if you did not get hurt - you might advance to the next round where you could fold it up again into three coils.  Here, Tim Peters is safe and sound.  This is a new heavy duty resaw blade that Tim will use to cut massive timbers for new end sills for Chicago Rapid Transit 1024.

Roof Scrubbing

It is hard to shoot a pic upward into a clear sky, but that is Bill Peterson finishing off removal of old paint on the front roof of Chicago Great Western X 38, our Russell Plow.

Marooned

Victor Humphreys is applying the maroon finish paint to the primed north side of the plow.  It makes a huge difference, but remember, we will apply a second coat.  I find it interesting that the code string for this image came up "CIA" but do not know what that means, or if we are in trouble with the government.

Unhinged

Buzz Morisette is working to let in new mortises for hinges to allow a last new door to be hung on the north side of the plow.  For now it remains unhinged.

The Nose

Every day we try to make some more progress on the the parts of the plow remaining painted in the ever popular 'rust' and 'yellow' colors.  Soon all traces of the C&NW yellow will be gone.  Victor is ready to prime more of the ramp, while Bill Peterson and Paul Cronin stand by.  They largely did the paint removal.

Take a Seat

Randall Hicks is taking a break and is sitting on the replacement compressor for Chicago Aurora & Elgin 36 wood interurban.  They hooked up a 600 volt stinger cable to it and ran it for a while to check it out and it passed the test.  If something unexpected comes up and this is not needed, I think this would make a stylish and chic conversation piece in the living room.

In the Shade

Bill Wulfert is removing paint (many layers) from some 'pie pan' light shades.  They are destined for the 50th Avenue high level platform lighting.

Carlines

Bob Sundelin is routing new carlines using a template and pattern routing bit.  These are to be installed as part of an all new set in Union Pacific M 35.