Ross,

Just a curiosity question. How much effort would it take to put the booster back on 2100 so that the engine could be up to full power at low speeds?

What would be envolved mechanically besides removing the trailing truck?

I just was curious.

I have been reading the threads and it seems that it would make good sense to explore this possibility as part of the solution.

Thanks for your answers in advance,

JD Johnson, Morehead and North Fork Railroad Historian

Fortunatley I was able to save the booster from 2100 from being scrapped when CSX decided to demolish the Roundhouse in Hagerstown, Md. I have offerred it to the GPRR folks but have not yet had a response. I fully agree that it does make a tremendous difference in the engines capabilities at slow speeds(under 15mph) and from my experience with the sister 2101 nearly doubles the engines ability to keep 'em moving in really tough pull situations.
To reinstall will mean sliding out the trailing truck, remounting the booster engine(some weldments, some bolted brackets) and of course reconnecting the steam delivery pipes(we also saved them along with the huge ball swivel joints) and the air and sand delivery pipes. Before reinstallation the booster will need to be internally cleaned,lubed and examined. To the best of my knowledge it was in good working order when removed from the engine, but that's a good while ago.
It weighs about 2.5 tons and can be easily trucked out there. Sure hope they decide to reinstall her on 2100 as they'll be very glad they did on that 3.5% monster hill. Rather have the booster than a dismal anyday !!!!
Ross Rowland

Thanks Ross,

I appreciate your response. Maybe the folks will take you up on your offer and put the booster back on. I would think that in the long run and if the booster is in good condition, the cost of reinstalling it would pay for itself as opposed to the "dismal" diesel and extra crew expenses incurred at present.

Any new developments on another 4-8-4 we know and love? (614)

Thanks again for your response,

JD Johnson, Morehead and North Fork Railroad Historian