Locomotive Needs
For engine #1:
- Head Gasket
- New Fan Belts
- Engine Compartment Cleaned and Painted
The Cab
New Floor
Fresh Paint
New Windows and Frames
Brakes and More
Feed Valves need parts.
Lube up Traction Motors
Engine #2 and Exterior to be continued…
As you can tell the plate is full, but getting this engine running is essential to the longevity of our Railroad.
What has been accomplished in the last month?
Several volunteers spent several hours completing much needed service to bring the locomotive out of retirement. We’ve found that the engines are in fine working condition after changing oil, installing batteries, and figuring out the starting process. #1 engine had it’s injector pump rebuilt and now purrs like a kitten, however the head gasket is leaking but nothing that will keep us from running. The focus currently on replacing the windows and making the inside of the cab presentable. This will involve removing the old paint, wire brushing the rust, taping off glass, and applying primer,
All feed valves are being refurbished – a few short tests showed they were not in working order.
Previously, we removed the radiator because we’ve discovered a leak in the bottom right corner, and It has been re-cored at Perrysburg Radiator. Not a small or cheap task for a core this size. Second, the fluids were drained and approximately 7 gallons of DSL engine oil and 3 new filters were applied. The injector pump was looked at and repaired. The brake stand, sanders, and brake cylinders were serviced. A bell and headlights were also installed.
What’s Next?
In the coming weeks the track will be the main focus of our volunteers, with little time spent on the Whitcomb however if interested parties would rather work on the locomotive please feel free to ask for direction. Since the switch in the yard needs ties as well as 90% of the mainline I don’t foresee us needing an engine for several months. But there is a glimmer of hope; if we can get the yard done in Grand Rapids (without interfering with the mainline progress) we can generate enough revenue to support other projects by operating the Whitcomb through town. There is nothing better for increasing community awareness (public relations) than getting a project completed and showing we are a positive asset to the area.
What Can I Do?
Our volunteers are the #1 asset to the railroad, with your help we can continue our tradition of community service and quality passenger service. Come out, bring your tools, and get to work. There are varieties of labor needed that will surly suit your unique ability or knowledge. Even though track work is the focus we won’t stop you from getting your hands dirty repairing 403 passenger car, #1 Whitcomb, or Steam 202! Hey members get active, you wannabes join TODAY.
