I just read on facebook that 1630 passed the FRA steam test !!!! Looks like they will be running for the 2014 season at Illinois Railway Museum. !!!!!!
Well that's great! Finally, a "Bolshevik" back in steam.
I kind of wish it said "Susquehanna" on the side, or maybe "Erie", instead of "Frisco", but that's just nit-picking on my part.
Well done IRM! You're doing the Lord's work out there.
Glad to hear this, Anytime I see a train running with Frisco name is a joy & a delight. Wish I could see #1522 running again, but don't see it happening. So go #1630, let the coonskin roll.
That is Great News To Hear! Now let's see if IRM will put her on the main line for excursion service to help them bring in more tourists
Keith Bunner
On the main line would be great, but remember, you need a sympathetic host railroad for that, and keep in mind those Russian Decapods weren't meant to go all that fast. Realistically you're looking at probably looking at speeds no greater than 35 or 40 miles per hour. A host road may not want a slow old-timer tying up the main line.
Not trying to be a wet blanket mind you, just trying to be realistic. It would be cool to see an old "Bolshevik" out for a romp on the main line somewhere.
Isn't this the locomotive that IRM ran for many years until just 5 years ago or so?
The thought hit me that if Walter Rich of the Susquehanna was still alive he might very well have invited the IRM to bring the Decapod east for a run on his line, provided it was lettered for the old Suzie-Q. The Susquehanna was a big user of the Russian Decapods having gotten them from the Erie. Mr. Rich was quite the steam fan.
However he's gone now, God rest his soul, and the current Susquehanna management has no interest in excursions at all.
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