Question for the IRM folks. In the James Kolanowski photo album, I see pictures of at least one main bearing shell out of the 5056. I was wondering if anyone could elaborate as to the reason for this work.

http://www.irm.org/gallery/5056mainbearing

Also, just out of curiosity, how is the 5056 project coming along?

- AT Kromer
Railroad Museum of New England

I do not know if Jamie visits here, so I will take a stab. The bearing is one of the things needing attention. Brake rigging is another major item. Like many projects this one keeps slogging along, with a lot of body and paint prep work done. But it is probably not number one on the prioroty list. Sure be nice to see a U 25 B working again.

Bob Kutella

Interesting, I wonder if this is the result of a poor rebuild job during its lifetime, or something else that caused this condition(?) While changing main bearings is a big job, its actually not too bad provided that you have the right tools for the job. How are you torquing the main bearing caps?

The carbodys of GE locomotives were not built to last which is most certainly evident for anyone preserving old U-boats. We have the exact same condition with both our U25B and U23B units -- the front headlight castings suffer from severe rot. The moisture just pours right in there and rusts out the bottom of the headlight casting and number boards.

Anyway, glad to hear that the 5056 project is still moving forward, even if slowly.

As I recall, (anonymous)'s posts are not allowed on this board, as per Terms and Conditions...........

<;-D