Dear Sir

What is the latest on #40,,,the last time i saw her she was in a few pieces in the shop???

the boiler side sheets were taken out,,along with the mud ring,etc,,,what has been done,,,will you please give and update,,,on engine,,,thanks Pat

Dear Pat:
Valley Railroad No. 40 is still in pieces in the shop, albeit a few less than a couple of months ago.
The new door sheet (which we hot flanged last year) has been fitted up, the seams with the crown sheet and door hole welded, riveted and the rigid stay bolts installed (all are headed on the inside and about 20% done on the outside.
Later this month we'll start fitting up the right side sheet, when that is done we'll do the left side.
All the materials are on hand to complete the job, as usual, the major problem is insufficent manpower to keep the rest of the railroad going and accomplish major projects at the same time.
J.David

"as usual, the major problem is insufficent manpower to keep the rest of the railroad going and accomplish major projects at the same time."

Well put J. David. We know how you feel.

Thank you both,,,for the update on 40,,,We have the same proplem

with help at the live steam club,,that I belong too...Pat