Steam Department

Rich Thomas and his small team have been continuing the restoration of the UP 428 cab. This time his efforts are concentrating on the installation of the interior wooden side panels.  During that same time the two metal floor replacements for the cab were finished and made ready for installation.  The riveting team of Jerry and Stu installed about 50 rivets into both floor panels.  Work has begun to prepare and old Illinois Central tender once used on the steam pile driver for eventual use as an auxiliary water tender for the Frisco 1630!  Not only is the steam department cosmetically restoring this tender but they are also working on installing new brakes and steps.  The 975 is receiving a much needed paint job.  Not an easy task but one that is definitely needed.Dennis, our in house volunteer welder, is finishing a couple of key components for our shay. This is just a small sample of the work being preformed in the department.   Yet to be blog about are another two huge projects,   The sandblasting and painting of the UP Rotary Snowplow and the reassemble of the 10 ton crane located in back of the steam shop.   We need this crane back in operation in order to lift the UP428 cab back on the engine's frame.             Thanks     Roger