Does anyone know if the SRI crew in Owosso have started the process to teardown and repair the problematic flues? I know the process was to begin after Trainfest but I've not heard or seen any updates. If they have started, has anyone heard a prognosis of time involved to make all repairs?

I am hoping to make a return trip to the area in early October to see the doubleheader trip with the 765. If I do come, I need to purchase my airfare now and was hoping to have a bit more assurance the boiler might be back in shape and ready.

Thanks in advance for any updates.

David Kaplan

Thanks but the latest comments there by T.J. Gaffney from the Steam Railroading Institute were made on 8/12 and repair work had not started at that time. I was looking for something more recent.

I did find this: http://www.trainorders.com/discussion/read.php?10,2000078

What about this weekend's photo charter planned in Owosso. I would imagine it's not to include the 1225. Can anyone confirm?

prepping involves heating the flue ends so they are soft and can withstand rolling (spreading) to seal them against the firebox and smokebox ends then welded on.
If they keep the work on track I am sure the 1225 can be ready in time for the 765 trip. They just better do the hydrostatic test and test firing before anything else tho, and prolly an FRA check.

Reports from the ground have 1225 steaming yesterday afternoon. I'm sure that more information will be forthcoming later this weekend.

A couple of pictures on Railpics shows both Berks under steam. Good work TJ, Greg, and crew!!

http://www.railpictures.net/viewphoto.p ... 378&nseq=1

http://www.railpictures.net/viewphoto.p ... 379&nseq=0