We are restoring the Death Valley #5 at the Laws Railroad Museum and need some help.
Searching for info on 'canvas' roof covering used in 1920-30. Where can I get it? what is best material to use?
Also looking for missing small parts, does anyone know where to find Brill parts.
If you have info please email me.
You may see our project at link below, go to the Death Valley Railroad page.

http://ttrr.org
jpittman@schat.com

Hi Jim;

Cotton duck is available at sail and awning manufacturers - not too many ships in port in Death Valley as I recall, but I can't imagine there wouldn't be suppliers around SF or SAC. No problem finding the stuff in Savannah. It can be touchy to work with - the rubberized elastomeric roof coating that seals it can also size it, so you don't want to retain selvage or stretch it too tight or it will lift at the edges as it dries. If you size it with cornstarch and water before installation first, then you can stretch it with impunity.

If you will be storing the car outdoors after restoration, you might want to consider seamless rubber roofing instead of the canvas. It is less prone to UV deterioration, and sunlight is pretty strong out your way. Use white to reflect the most radiation possible.

I am not aware of any source for the Brill parts you need - as I recall, the ventilators and so forth - Edwards Car might have a source for stamping out new ones. If not, you could set up to make them yourself and furnish them to everybody.
Pleased to hear you are working on that car. Did you ever get the water and fuel tank trestle done?

dave

irondave@bellsouth.net