Entries by Phil Stepek

just to keep folks updated a bit, with our monthly report to the museum for the folks that cant get by.

busy times with maintenance ongoing. A bit of progress on a couple of cars, as we go through midsummer.

GENERAL DEPARTMENT PROGRESS

Coach inspections continue.

As of July 4 weekend, only two Rock Island cars still need to have their annual inspections.

The down side is that they are the two cars that require significant repair before service.

One requires a wheel swap, and the second is getting a new ceiling.

Plans are in place to complete these projects in time for Thomas

The electrical conversion of passenger cars continues.

With the latest inspections, we have cut approx 15 amps of power draw from the display circuit.

This not only reduces the electrical use within the barn, but also lowers the demand threshold on the electrical system of each car.

We are beginning a program of developing info on more cars within Barn 3, to allow us to order the large metal informational signs for remaining cars on display.

Another project moving along a bit is our intention to develop a method of enclosing areas of the parlor cars , thereby allowing us to open them for view by our guests.

INDIVIDUAL EQUIPMENT REPORTS

DLW coaches (3)

Changes are progressing , but not yet completed.

Two cars are in service.

The third car is progressing in the repair of the vestibule, but is on hold until the car inspections are completed.

Rock Island Coaches (4)

Two cars have received inspections,

one car is getting a ceiling replaced, and should be painted this week

one car requires new wheels. Mike had made plans to accomplish the task this month, following the July 4th event

CBQ RPO 1923

          The car is currently being opened for exterior inspection on weekends, but we await getting it turned around for the full scope of the display to be viewed by our guests.

 ATSF 2544

          The prep work for the second side of seats has continued.

 Seat frames are being prepared and the wall work nears completion, with paint work is completed, we now await the opportunity to complete the seat frames and reinstall them.

Dover Strait

          Progress continues piecemeal, as painting and reassembly of the lounge area continues.   Hardware installation also continues.        

 B&M 3288/1094

          Refinishing of both the seating and dining area has reached a completion point, and Jack is now beginning to refurbish the kitchen area. He does not expect to restore a complete kitchen, but I am sure his plan includes repair of woodwork, and then a possible display area.  We still are considering the move of the car to a better display location, once the two commuter coaches behind it are ready to be removed. In addition, we have begun to explore the electrical system in the car, and hope to be able to activate the cars' ceiling fixtures soon, further enhancing the display. We also have located the vestibule steps on property and he hopes to get them reinstalled this year.

YARD 5 DISPLAY

Safety and anti climb signs have been posted on many of the pieces within the yard, in an attempt to make the area safer and more consistent.

In addition to the cars in revenue service, we have been successful in re-awakening the special exhibit cars. This display re-opened for the July 4th weekend, and we hope to have it open for public display throughout the remainder of the summer.

Three exhibits are now in place;

a).  A display of railroad artwork by George C Clark,

b).  a poster and informational display of the WW2 /railroad effort, and Pullman troop sleeper

c).  a program explaining the role of the railroad postal clerk. This display is still in progress, and the plan by the program leaders is to tell the chronological story of the service , and end with a display of the experiences at IRM.  This display will tie in with a more visible display within the RPO car itself in Barn 3 , as soon as we can get the car turned around for visibility. We also have the rights to present a "living history" video produced by a team member from Eastern Illinois University.

We are installing a "coming attractions" board near the entrance,

 a)  The Freight Dept already has been preparing for a freight traffic display

 b)   a Chicago Railroad Fair exhibit from Ray Bellock

 c)   and are in the early planning for a possible living history of IRM , especially as we approach our 60th anniversary.  Several folks here have expressed interest, and we hope to put them together to create a solid presentation.