5550

[Overmod]

Sorry for the delay; I don't read this forum much, and have only just found the post.

Point #1:  The T1 isn't intended to recoup its cost, or earn its keep, in excursion service, or on some dedicated railroad service.  The 5AT people made a considerable point out of how they 'rightsized' the power to what they considered a 'heritage' service could use -- hence the 4-6-0 with relatively small tender.

The Trust intends 5550 is a technical and historical exercise, a proof that the concept and execution were not the failures so many railfans seem to think they were.  Actual operation of the locomotive is secondary, a fringe benefit, and would be tailored to the characteristics of the locomotive rather than 'the other way round'.

Point #2.  Notwithstanding the 5AT people's decision to concentrate on the small-by-American-standards 4-6-0, much of their design approach (including the whole FDC methodology) and many of their people's experience and connections could be useful resources for the T1 design effort.  Even if no money changes hands (and I, for one, think supporting the 5AT consultancy is a good thing to accomplish) I think the 5AT people can give the T1 Trust principals some very good advice on many aspects of steam locomotive technology, including how to present their ideas effectively.

Point #3.  One good example already: the Trust has found out how and where to have lightweight main and side rods forged (at Lenape), and has started working with Timken to find best approaches for designing or adapting bearings for those rods.  Another example: welding and lost-foam casting technologies that optimize cost-effective design of frames for large replica locomotives.  A great many of the technologies that will go into designing and then constructing the T1 will make subsequent locomotive construction of that kind, and on that scale, considerably easier and less expensive -- but of course would not do so if the locomotive were not actually designed and then constructed. 

Point #4.  Yes, I meant NYC 5344.  Thaniks for reminding me; it is certainly easy just to preface the number with the roadname (or type).