This one is from the horses mouth guys(and gals)...Brian Hebert Status statement on Steam Locomotive 7470 CSRR regrets to report that although extensive repairs have been carried out on Steam Locomotive 7470 as of this time she is still not operational. However, the good news is that we have a plan in place to make necessary repairs as outlined by a recent inspection by our mechanics and the FRA to make her operational by the fall of 2005. The work involved will be executed by an outside company who will replace 37 half couplings, a small number of stay bolts and repair several rivets. At the completion of this work the boiler will again be inspected by the FRA and barring any further unforeseen problems should become operational shortly thereafter. We will provide updates on the progress of this work as it proceeds. You may check our web site periodically for this updated information. Thanks - Avia LukacsAssistant to Russ SeyboldConway Scenic RailroadP.O. Box 1947North Conway, NH 03860603/356-5251 *21www.conwayscenic.com

What is a half coupling? I've not heard that term before.Roger

Presents two possibilities:Staybolt sleeve repair, more commonly known as a "half sleeve" in which deteriorated outer threaded ends of flexibolt staybolt sleeves are replaced without removing the good staybolt and inner socket of the sleeve. Washout plug socket that is not just a tapped hole in the boiler plate but an actual fitting either threaded into the plate into which the plug screws, or is welded onto the plate to hold the plug. I reckon you could also use this sort of thing to attatch threaded connections to the boiler apart from washout plugs. Maybe Brian can clear it up?dave

I'm not sure. I work on the tracks. I'll try to find out for you, but I think it's the latter.Brian

We tried a similar repair to the MEC 501 also at North Conway. The staybolts were in good condition but some of the sleeve and socket fittings were badly corroded. We did not want to disturb the crown sheet anymore then we had to (ie by replacing the entire bolt) so we machined a 2 piece sleeve and socket to replace the old corroded one piece sleeve and socket fitting. The old sleeve was simply cut-off flush at the boiler shell leaving the staybolt and ball protruding. We ten slipped the 2 halves in place and welded them together and to the shell. We then welded a removable cap over it. The key was taking careful before and after measurments to ensure no excess movement of the staybolt.It worked great except - a volunteer, self proclaimed "expert" decided it wasn't good enough and cut them all off as well as removing and destroying the affected staybolts. Needless to say his actions sort of brought the whole project to a halt.

Was just in North Conway after a Mt. Washington trip yesterday, had an excellent ride on the "Gertrude Emma" and the staff was very friendly. Great operation!Joshua

John,

Why exactly did you feel the need to dredge up a post from 2005 and do it the way you did....did you catch the date of the last post on this thread? 2005. This is all very old news. The 7470 has actually operated since 2005 and I believe it may still be in operation right now, but I may be wrong. I don't think you will find any sympathy from anyone on this board with the kind of approach you've taken with your posts. Just my $0.02 worth.

Rob Gardner

Conway Scenic has been having it's 1472 day inspection done and will be back in service in in another year.

Alan
Information as to its status is available on the Conway Scenic website.