We are searching for #2, 4, & 6 Eastern pattern coal scoops of decent quality with a D handle. Ames Razorback division makes a #2 and 6, but no 4. The listed suppliers don't stock or can't order them. We have been ordering from an industrial supplier, but we see a shift to fiberglass handles and plastic or aluminum scoops. Quality has been suffering, with D handles failing. They're just not a big enough mover for anyone to bother with anymore, or so it appears. What are you using to fire with?

Mr. Eissele,

A quick google search yielded quite a few suppliers of what would work as a coal scoop. I seem to have had better luck searching under "Eastern Pattern Asphalt Scoop" rather than coal for the reasons you list. That seemed to narrow the search criteria to simply choosing between an aluminum or tempered steel scoop. Your mileage may vary...

As far as sizing, what I have done in the past knowing that the array of available sizes was slim, was create a pattern or cutting edge and simply cut down the number #6 scoop to the likening of a #4 or #2. What is removed can be used to reinforce the leading edge of the scoop with the assistance of a MIG welder. Just be sure there is no protruding edge as it will catch on the floor of a tender deck, especially if it was freshly renewed with diamond plate or the like. Really can ruin a fireman's day.

Although I wouldn't suggest this, a #6 can morph into a #4 or #2 with enough errant slams off the firedoors provided the shank doesn't split first...

Hope this helps,
DC

https://www.amazon.com/Westward-4LVR7-E ... go-ffsb-20

This looks like a possibility.

Keith

Not to get off topic, but what are the dfferences between No. 6, No. 4, (ect.) coal scoops?

Is it size? Shape?

Size. Width, length and depth. #2 being the smaller, going larger towards #6.

Greetings:
I'm not sure what these are size wise, but Valley Railroad has been using Scoops from McMaster-Carr for about 30 years. Their item 6211A11 is currently priced at about $45.00 plus shipping. In stock, we just ordered some.
J.David
PS: A quick poll of the firemen reveled no complaints about the size of our scoops, although one of our guys brings his own, extra large size...JDC

"PS: A quick poll of the firemen reveled no complaints about the size of our scoops, although one of our guys brings his own, extra large size...JDC"

So..... size matters, eh?

Howard P.

Just an observation; not only are steam locomotive parts scarce, but now the shovels to fire them with?

And decent coal to burn...

Greetings:
The latest batch of scoops arrived today from McMaster-Carr, and I sent them back!
The handle grips were PLASTIC!
Perhaps this is what Wayne alluded to in his post...
Should anyone find a supplier of decent scoops, please share...
J.David

Here at the R&N we use eastern #6 scoops. I got the last batch through MSC last summer. The part number is 67867218. I looked them up today and that part number is unavailable. It shows a replacement number of 60940954.

Is this anything like what you're looking for?:
Razor-Back: #4 Street Coal/Street Shovel, with Wood Handle and Steel D-Grip
Go up a level to "Steel Scoops" for a variety of sizes and styles.

The square corners on that scoop look like they would get caught on the fire door ring to me. I think this scoop from the same company would be a better choice.
http://www.razor-back.com/tool/scoops/5 ... th-d-grip/
Keith

Unless you're building a bank for the night, you shouldn't need a #6. #2 is just fine for anything, and a #1 cuts down on smoke. :)

First we had to make our own injectors. Now we have to make our own coal scoops?