IF the museum ever has the money to put a steam locomotive back in service, you're right, they would choose the #1522, but it would be possible to get the #1015 back to, although the museum wouldn't do it, like I said. And the #1015 (a 4-4-2) wouldn't have many slipping problems, it actually hauled the "Overland Flyer" express for quite a spell. From what I've read, it was a small but modestly powerful locomotive. And from what I've seen of it, I'd believe it.
I would think that the museum would want to get SLSF 1522 back in operation before taking on restoring another locomotive. Besides what could you do with a slippery Atlantic? It could not pull enough cars to make it a good excursion locomotive. We have the same problem we have a Rock Island 4-6-2 light pacific. It would be a great locomotive to restore to run. But it would be terable as an excursion locomotive. too light. can't pull anything up any kind of grade.
3025 was in operable condition when donated and made a few moves under steam at Travel Town on a modest section of panel track before confinement to static display, cosmetically, it is great condition and probably mechanically sound enough for restoration.
Dave
What condition is the #3025 in?
There is also one surviving SP 4-4-2, 3025 at Travel Town in Los Angeles, built by Alco in 1904 and donated in 1952 becoming this organizations first exhibit.
Unfortunately, the #1015 is in very poor condition, I am sad to report, the wooden cab has all but rotted away, and there is quite a bit of weathering. As for the boiler, only professional tests will tell the true condition. She was pulled from service right after World War 2, and she was actually the FIRST steam locomotive acquired by the Museum of Transport. BUT THERE IS GOOD NEWS!!! I am VERY happy to report that a thorough cosmetic restoration will soon begin for the #1015, you can donate to the project at http://transportmuseumassociation.org/collection/Chicago_NW_1015.htm I have seen her personally, and despite her cab, she is structurally sound. With a little bit of luck, a lot of care, and money, She could run again!!! Although, I doubt the museum will ever fund it. Oh well, maybe one day!
I expect to be there sometime this summer. I'll report back soon.
I have seen it , it is a little rough but with enough money it could run again !!!
You don't see many surviving 4-4-2's nowadays, and I have never seen any running except PRR 7004 long ago, and several scale models. I have always loved the "Atlantic" wheel arrangement, and since CNW used to run through my hometown, I thought it would be neat to have a discussion on one of the railroads only surviving steam locomotives...the #1015. She was built in 1900 by ALCO and currently resides in Kirkwood, MO. Anyone who has seen the engine or volunteered at the St. Louis Museum of Transportation...does anyone have any information on the true condition of CNW 1015? What is the condition of her boiler? When was she pulled from service? Information is little and hard to come by at best and I know someone out there has to know more about the venerable old 'gal!
-Liam
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