Hi all

I have a Ex New Haven 6 chime whistle,,,that was loaned out too

the Conway Scenic RR in North Conway,New Hampshire,,,but a

problem did arise,,,,the RR found cracks in the treads ,,,of the

whistle valve,,,and the Conway Scenic,,,did not use the whistle...

What I would like too know is there any Company,,in the U.S.

that can either,,,repair,,,or make new whistle valves?????

Thank You,,,Pat..

In order to answer this question, we need to know if the whistle valve in this case is a built-in part of the whistle (i.e. integral) or a separate valve. It sounds from your description like you are looking to replace the latter.

You have several options available, from buying old valves to buying new valves. A search of eBay may turn up used/antique valves, though it may take a while and they aren't cheap, especially the larger sizes--look for Crosby and Lunkenheimer, and maybe Crane. Lunkenheimer, the storied whistle maker of old, is still in business and still making new whistle valves, although once again they're not cheap. Multipower International, the outfit attempting to import Chinese steam locomotives and accessories, has also been supposedly importing whistles and valves, but the reviews I have heard so far indicate you would be getting what amounts to horribly rough castings that require extensive refinishing and machining to produce acceptable results. I believe Boots & Johnson, the guys producing replica collectible whistles, are also producing valves, though I could be wrong. (I'm sure they'd do you some favors for a chance to study and replicate your New Haven whistle!)

If the valve is integral, you have a seriously different problem, requiring some serious craftsmanship to repair the brass castings that are cracking.

In theory, because the railroad in question would be required to have a functioning whistle on the locomotive to meet safety standards, I would suggest that the railroad bear the costs of the whistle valve, but retain possession afterwards in case a new whistle comes around. If the choice is there, get a new Lunkenheimer--good quality and accountability.

.

Lunkinheimer is a lil cheaper than that company. But not by much. All else fails ask around. I lucked into a Lonergan 1in for 65.00. Best quillin valve i've came across. Just keep looking you'll find one sooner or later.


Scott

www.steam-whistles.com

Pat,

What size of thread is the valve? They have some valves on EBAY as well as at www.hornandwhistle.net/forsale.htm

I hope this helps.

JD Johnson, Morehead and North Fork Railroad Historian

I would suggest coming over to either of the following groups:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Horn_Whistle/

or

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/steam-whistles/

Both groups have members that build and repair both Whistles and Horns, with the second group being the better choice for you since we have a few people that design whistles for steam and air from scratch along with collect and blow originals. One of the members did a major study of Flue Dynamics and holds multiple whistle patents.

Rich C.

I've seen valves and like items that have been brazed and repaired. I'm not sure if this is acceptable, but it apparently was in the "good old days".