> Big discussion about 614 status on
> railfan.net.

No offense Hank, but I hardly call that a discussion. it's the same gossip and "What ifs" that have been floating around the internet all year.

Jeff Lisowski
West Chester, Pa

unfunkyufo76@hotmail.com

Just to amplify a bit on what Jim said (all of it true), "operable" is an interesting concept with regard to 614, and one that doesn't have much to do with her mechanical condition one way or another.

No matter what her mechanical condition--even if it were perfect--she needs a complete boiler inspection to bring her into coverage under the new 49 CFR 230 boiler regs before she puts a pound of steam on the gauge. That means flues out, ultrasound survey of the boiler shell, and new form 4 calulated from objective measurements and submitted to the FRA for review. It's more than a simple "flue job" issue under the old boiler regs.

So you can see, even setting aside any ownership or lien issues, odds of this happening in time for Baltimore are effectively none. I'm very fond of 614, but let's put an end to both hopes and rumors--until someone, Ross or other, steps out with clear title to her, and that someone announces a plan to do the part 230 work, we won't see her in steam.

eledbetter@rypn.org

Well When I Win The Lottery For 300 Million I Will Give Ross A Call!
Aaron

norfolk_western_611@hotmail.com

Agreed Rob;

I have seen way too many events through a view finder and now discover I can't remember the experience at all. I now only shoot a few documentary shots and whatever things catch my eye and focus on living the experience instead.

dave

irondave@bellsouth.net

> Hmmmm
> And they've got the Tom Thumb replica.
> Maybe with a better blower belt it'll win
> this time.

The belt is mostly phony now. The exhaust and a regular steam blower are installed on the present incarnation of Tom. Tom also has a fresh 1472 and two water glasses now.

I'm betting on the Thumb. I dont think they have any proper stone tied track for the horse to trot between, and the ties and ballast may be hell on Dobbin.

Steve

SZuidervee@aol.com