I am currently working on the 2007 list of operable US and Canadian steam locomotives for the July issue of Railfan & Railroad. I note that for the second year in a row the Illinois Railway Museum has no steam operation planned. It was my understanding that their three truck Shay was being repaird last year for service this year. Was I misled? Any hope for it (or 1630 or 428) running in 2007?

Jeff Terry

I don't work in the Steam Department but I believe that the plan is to have the Shay running this year. That locomotive has been the focus of much recent work and I believe is nearly ready to go. The 428 is still a couple of years away, but I believe the IRM "Steam Team" is hoping to have 1630 running for 2008.

We are not making promises just yet as to steam. There was a good possibility of the shay making it sometime this year until a thin section was discovered on the bottom of the the rear tube sheet just recently while prepping for new tubes.

Staybolt cleaning (drilling) etc is proceeding although there are some problematic areas on a Shay design where part of the firebox sits inside the engine framing.

It is still possible but it seems in the best case, the work will take till mid summer, and then the inspection and testing process represents an unknown time frame.

If and when the first steam will be running again, it will be announced on our website www.irm.org

Work continues on the 428 and progress is being made on the new drop pit - a necessary step to do much of significance on the Frisco 1630.

Bob Kutella