I had a blast riding in X-5000 on Sunday during Diesel Days. Brian was great to talk to. It was cool seeing the comntrol board work. I can't wait for the next its running so I can ride in it.
In looking at the general exterior condition of the Dynamometer Car you would think that it was a total wreck. It is wonderful that it is operational and a huge and unusual asset for the museum. Are there any plans to repaint the exterior?
I'll have to defer to Warren, but I believe the plan is to paint the car once Barn 14 is up. I may be wrong, but that is what I heard last.
Cosmetics like paint have not been priorities because of more pressing issues. If the roof is letting water in, for example, fixing that is a bigger priority than replacing peeling paint.
Shameless Plug: donating funding for painting to X-5000's restricted fund would help get fresh paint on the car.
Mark-
What I can tell you is that we believe it will be going into the next barn which is very welcome news after sitting outside since about 1987 when it left the Milwaukee Shops. We have been told it needs to go inside before it can be painted.
We received a grant from MRHA to sanblast & paint the roof.
So yes, it's in the plans - just not sure exactly how soon. Glad you enjoyed it!
Warreb
I have been asked to note that "40,000 lbs of Buff Shock" does not mean that it was a sudden load of 40,000 lbs of force on the train. 40,000 lbs of force was seen briefly as we headed West and upgrade while slowing for a speed restriction.
This was also not a result of any undesired conditions in the train.