On Saturday 12/23 I had the pleasure of visiting the Steamtown shops for a “look-see”. It had been over six months since I took a walk through (despite my office being just a quarter mile away on Steamtown grounds). Lots of progress, I was really impressed so I figured I’ve an update on some of the goings on in the shop from my observations.

CP 2317 – Work continues on returning the engine to service. The tender was having its wheel sets replaced on the drop table. 1 truck was done and the other one was in progress when I stopped by.

BLW 26 – Lots of work done on the engine and while it is still in “kit form” a lot has been accomplished. A new ash pan & hopper mechanism have been assembled. The cab has been completely re-worked with a new interior, doors and windows. New Tires are on scene and the drivers have seemed to have gotten work recently. Many new stay bolts going in the firebox with some beautiful boiler work having been done. Looked like new tube sheets have been installed. There were about a dozen other completed items in various places throughout the shop.

PRR 1361 – The engine has made a lot of progress it would appear, at least to me. The back head has been permanently affixed and some beautiful new side sheets have been set in. The mud ring is a work of art! A beautiful new coal bunker has been installed in the tender recently, also top notch work. I learned that the ARMM-hired foreman is no longer with the K4 project, not sure how that will effect the timetable, but work seems to be continuing.

B&M 3713 – Seems to be on somewhat of a back burner as the focus is on the 26 and 2317, but I saw that boiler & firebox work has continued since my last visit. The engine booster has been succesfully tested as well.

Dave Crosby