April 12, 2017 This week we again water tested the boiler. We used a portable fire pump to bring the pressure to 120 PSI. We found more staybolt plugs leaking on top. The water was lowered to a level so the plugs could​ be removed. They were replaced and other preparations were made for a […]

April 3, 2017 As a result of our recent water pressure of the boiler we have been addressing the minor leaks which became evident. Workers continue working on various control rods and brackets, painting mechanical parts and electrical components and testing the various air brake components.​ Support brackets were being fabricated for the MU equipment […]

March 28, 2017 Over the past few weeks we have been water testing the boiler at various pressures. Each time we seemed to find more slow leaks which may have been overlooked at the previous test. Many, if not all of these leaks, stem from flexible staybolt caps and rigid staybolts at their mushroomed caulked […]

February 20, 2017 A milestone event occurred this week when the last of the many superheater bundles was bench hydro tested and put away awaiting the boiler hydro that will be scheduled as soon as Rick and Gail can return from their medical leave. Gail is doing well and is now recovering from hip surgery. […]

February 13, 2017 This past week we began installing the throttle valve caps by chasing the stud bolt threads. A few of the bolts are in poor condition and will need to be replaced​. As usual, air brake components were being installed along with solenoid valves. Hydro testing of the superheater bundles is still being […]

February 7, 2017 Small bore piping for the bell ringer has been installed. The stack lifter piping is an ongoing project. The superheater bundle hydro project is close to being finished. A few more work sessions should complete that project. We received all the insulation needed for the locomotive last Wednesday. This material was purchased […]

February 2, 2017 Besides the normal work which has been ongoing for several months, the surge PAD welding was completed on the inside of the firebox. Very few spots remain on the outer firebox sheet. Those are being taken care of this coming week. Various pipe brackets are being fabricated to replace old ones that […]

January 25, 2017 This week began, what has come to be known at the 2926, a surge week. Like our pit project, siding reconstruction, and engine house, we’re doing overlay welding in various locations where UT measurements were shown to be marginal. Volunteers have been showing up six days a week to finish the work. […]

January 11, 2017 Since I last wrote, the winter solstice is behind us and the days are getting a bit longer which means warmer days. Right? Right! Anyway the volunteers are still layered up and working through the cold mornings and afternoons. Progress is being made in several areas. As with most weeks work continues […]

December 28, 2016 The work site this week was a mixed bag of work. Some directly to the 2926 while others continued replacing bogie cylinders on Lurch. Three are now done and the forth to be done next Saturday. Sheet metal work progressed on the fireman’s side steam chest cylinders. We expect the first course […]