Arcade & Attica #14 - Sitting in the Shed

[W. Dancey]

I have seen some wonderful photographs of the old Arcade & Attica #14 4-6-0 in a barn at the tourist railroad, and some older snapshots of her in operation (presumably) on the same line, but does anyone out there know why she no longer runs excursion?? Is there just general servicing that needs to be carried out or a bigger mechanical problem? I also think lack of money might be part of the problem??? Thanks! -Liam

[tomikawaTT]

Just shooting from the hip, here, since I have no connection to the A&A.

#14 has probably run up against the 15-year (for excursion locos) "Tear it down to parts and rebuild it, incorporating all the FRA-mandated upgrades," maintenance requirement.  If so, money would definitely be a consideration.

Unless A&A is wildly profitable, or Daddy Warbucks is aboard with checkbook in hand, the expense could be a deal-breaker.

Chuck

[Harrold]

The A&A has not been a wildly profitable railroad before and since I fired there in 1975-77 on #14.  She was a fine running engine but didn't receive a lot of major maintenance.  If you've ever been in the shop (the "barn" mentioned earlier), you would understand.  Not a lot of machinery unless things have changed.  The Part 240 would cost between $500K and a million so probably not likely as long as 18 is running.