After many delays due to foundry problems with the complicated main body casting, we have just completed and are ready to ship our first four production Sellers type 8.5 lifting injectors. We possess many of the original Sellers blueprints, but are indebted to Bernie Watts of Backshop Enterprises for providing this order, a new old stock main body casting, a sectioned main body casting, and the impetus to see this project through.
http://www.strasburgrailroad.com/wmsr/i ... -inj-4.jpg
We have received reproduction number plates for #90, and #475 to replace those stolen last winter. (By the way, if the person who stole them would e-mail me with their address and phone number, IÂ’d appreciate it). Wayne James is a pattern maker in Gettysburg, PA, who has a selection of reproduction number and builderÂ’s plates patterns already on hand, as well as the ability to make more to order. He has been very cooperative and patient with us in supplying just what we wanted. He can be reached at 717-624-4910, or at jamesgang@netrax.net. He pours in aluminum himself, but was able to work with Zimmerman Foundry in Columbia, PA. Zimmerman specializes in custom bronze plaques, so number plates were right up their alley.
http://www.strasburgrailroad.com/wmsr/i ... -plate.jpg
I also included photos of a new rear tube sheet for East Broad Top #15 being formed on our McCabe flanging machine. Once forming is complete, the sheet will be stress relieved, and the tube holes drilled. This follows a new door sheet for the same engine which was formed a couple of weeks ago.
http://www.strasburgrailroad.com/wmsr/i ... etbnd1.jpg
http://www.strasburgrailroad.com/wmsr/i ... etbnd3.jpg
As far as our roster, #31 and #475 are presently in service. #90 should be in service by the first week in June, and #89 should be in service by the third week in June.
Grading is underway for the Cagney train right of way, which will run from the lower driveway to just East of the gift shop. The track will include a 30' long trestle in front of the Business office.
Strasburg Rail Road
kelly@strasburgrailroad.com