The Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum continues to work on their 1942-built Porter diesel, Notre Dame & Western #5332. The 65 ton unit has been jacked up and the two trucks rolled out to facilitate air brake work. It was recently determined that certain wheels need to be turned to meet FRA regulations. The places HVRM has contacted thus far, have all declined to quote on the work. Photos of the trucks and wheels, are attached. If anyone has any ideas as to who might be willing to perform the work, please forward a PM, or advise on this thread.

Thanks for any assistance that can be offered.


Les Beckman (HVRM/North Judson, Indiana)

Could you use a portable wheel lathe? To see one in action (on a former Southern Pacific Alco S-6 at Niles Canyon Railway), go down about midway and click where it says "For a short movie of the lathe in action, click here." http://sp1218.ncry.org/wheels.htm

Wes we had a cutting shoe in the shop. we trued the GE with it several years ago. We probably need new carbide inserts though. Email me off line I'll let you know where to get them.

Big question is how much needs to be done ? Flange ? Full profile ? Do the wheels have enough tread to handle the work ? If a lot needs to be done it's probably better to go with the portable lathe option if no shop steps forward.

Did you call R & W Machine ?

Mike

Jeff Clapper at the Wheeling & Lake Erie did allot of reprofilling work for us on complete trucks. Very reasonable prices and fast turn around time. Send it just like you have it and get it back done. The one wheel looks thin to me in the picture but might be okay

I understand Silcott does this type of work as well.

Did they give a reason for refusing to quote?

Thanks to those who replied with suggestions. Our museum President has made some promising contacts.

Les