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Posted by siberianmo on Wednesday, June 29, 2005 7:19 PM
For: Gunns-Kevin
Must be a run on something cold tonight! Here's one of those bottomless beers - they go down real smoooooooth - [tup] [swg]

What you do with these loco's seems to me to be something that is representative of skills long gone from most of America. From the reading I've done regarding the numbers of people employed when railroading in our country was KIng, it must have been quite a let down when those skilled people were thrown out of careers. Perhaps the worst part of it had to be knowing it was coming - the handwriting was on the wall.

If our country were to wake up one day and find that rail just had to be modernized and done so quickly, my thoughts are that we'd have a helluva hard time trying to line up the skilled workers to do the jobs. Suppose - just for the sake of discussion - that America wanted to embark upon a serious effort to link our major metropolitan areas by high-speed rail. Suppose that the idea was to go balls to the wall in order to get it up and running. Suppose we wanted to build our own loco's and rolling stock ..... where oh where would we ever find the people to make it happen [?] Oh, well - just supposing.

Have one on me! [tup] [;)]
Tom
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
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Posted by Trainnut484 on Wednesday, June 29, 2005 9:00 PM
Hello all,

I'll have a nice ice cold Miller Lite. Trip to the DMV was more pleasant than last time. They have installed an automated "take a number" system that speeds up the waiting time.

Gunns-Kevin, [tup][tup] Have fun with the foot board Saturday. I would like to see some pictures of the 2926 restoration, if you have any to share. "EDIT UPDATE" I just visited the website, www.nmrs.org, and all I can say is [wow][bow][bow][wow] It is great to see the progress! The 2900 class are my favorite steamers. And not just because the last four digits of my phone number are 2921[(-D][(-D][(-D]

earlydiesels-Dan, thanks for reminding me the number of the Frisco engine in Spfld, 4524. And that is a CNW commuter coach. Earlier I wasn't sure (for some reason I was thinking SP, although they had their own commuter coaches). My wife is originally from Springfield, and one of her best friends (from school days) lives very close to the main line. Her back yard edges close to the East end of the yards. I poke my head out of the back door when we visit, and set up a lawn chair w/tea if traffic looks promising. I also make sure I pack my camera.

Take care,

Russell





All the Way!
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Posted by passengerfan on Wednesday, June 29, 2005 9:13 PM
Good evening all well guess I'll have a Crown Royal with water back and a round for the house.
Tom just read your suppose.
Remember it wasn't that long ago they built the Alaska Pipeline and they found skilled workers to complete that project in record time.
After the pipeline was finished had occasion to visit Valdez and saw hundreds of pieces of construction equipment just rusting away seems it was cheaper to write it off this way than send it to the lower 48 for scrapping.
If and I say if they ever decide to extend the ARR to the lower 48 in my lifetime then i will book the first seat on the first train. Having drove the Alcan for six years I have nothing but praise for the Army Corps of engineers who built the original highway now much improved but constantly being improved even more. As a trucker for those six years winters were the preferable time to drive the Alcan. Summers their were to many tourists and to many RVs and drivers that didn't know whatt they were doing. Winters we could drive a complete round trip from Seattle to Anchorage in six days. Summers the same trip took seven to eight. Two winters in a row while in the Yukon territory I hit Moose on the highway. The first time I killed the Moose and he killed my truck to the tune of $7000.00 in damages. The second year that Moose I hit at seventy and believe it or not he got up shook himself and ambled off into the brush. The Mounties unloaded a Snomobile and followed his tracks for about a mile and said he was really picking them up and laying them down. Their I was stuck with $15,000 damage to my tractor. My boss gave me a 30-30 rifle for Xmas that year and said it had to be cheaper to hunt Moose with a rifle than my truck.
But seriously it is the most wild unspoiled land in North America and I would love to see a rail line completed in my life time.
I think if Highspped rail gets off the ground anywhere in the US besides the NE Corridor it is going to be here in California. Connceting San Diego, Los Angeles, San Jose, Oakland ,San Francisco Sacramento, Stockton, Merced, Fresno, Bakersfield and Victorville.


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Posted by Gunns on Wednesday, June 29, 2005 10:43 PM
Winding down for the night,
Just a Apfelsaftschorle, <1/2 apple juice 1/2 mineral water>

For Trainnut484 here is a link to our web site,
http://www.nmrhs.org/
It has a few slide shows, more to come soon, it is just that we have recently aquired, a Machinist <me> and a pair pf stamp certified welders. So lotsa jobs that were piling up are getting knocked out. Soon we will have the tender back together and the boiler work will start. The worst potential damage will be the upper wrapper over the fire box, that is where we will probably find the worst pitting and rust damage. Luckely, the new FRA regs have recognised the advances in welding and inspection methods, and has made repairs easer to compleate and certify. We keep telling the world, 6 more years, but really hope to be done and certified by 2012, the Centenial of New Mexico. Also rumor has it that the 3715 will be out here for the Tricentenial of Albuqurque, if I get any confermation, I'll let you know. Edit... 2921 eh.. check this out....
http://www.barstowrailmuseum.org/2921_1.html

Trolleyboy-Rob one of our members was up your way last week for his 50th Grade school reunion. He might have run in to you, he is named Paul.
Sat. I am going to fire up our riivet forge, much easer than indivadual heating with a torch, but temp will still be over a 100deg, <low Humidity though, prob about 15%>. In unision "But It's a DRY heat"
Gunns
http://www.nmslrhs.org/
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Posted by trolleyboy on Wednesday, June 29, 2005 11:23 PM
Hello everyone. Gunns I don't think he made it by,coarse I was only at the museum on thursday last week so if he hit them over the weekend he may have met my father-in-law. I'll have a guiness tonight I think Tom and some of the beernuts.BTW we should stop talking about lighting off Boris for the fourth,I saw him trying to do the old "blue flame" in the bathroom. Lord what a mess scortched toilet paper everywhere[:O][XX(] Tom as long as it's high speed electric I'm all for it coarse I'm likley biased that way. But seriously if your going to do the highspeed route maglev or electric is the way to go.Just a quick stop by this evening.Didn't Nick say something about going away for a week? That maybe why he's not been around,that or the good inspecter and Nick really tied one on at the birthday party. Did anyone check the shed? See eneryone tomorrow. Rob
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Posted by coalminer3 on Thursday, June 30, 2005 8:43 AM
Morning all - Another hot and muggy one today. Will be offline for a few days (time for trip to NYC country.) Best wishes to all for a SAFE and happy 4th.

work safe
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Posted by siberianmo on Thursday, June 30, 2005 9:02 AM
THURSDAY SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS (edited)

Hi y’all – here’s hoping you’re keeping out of the sun and looking forward to the end of the week! Glad you stopped by, so whatillyahave [?] [tup] [;)]

Still nothing from or about Chris up in Montreal. [%-)]
And WHERE’S NICK [?]

Birthday Bash REMINDER – Friday, July 15th – ***’s 65th!

Okay some ”Our” Place news:

Tomorrow is Canada Day, so in honor of our northern cousins, drinks are on the house for anyone claiming Canada as home – OR anyone who has blood relatives in Canada – OR anyone who has visited Canada – OR anyone who knows where Canada IS! [swg]

Monday is Independence Day so in honor of our 4th of July heritage, the bar will be OPEN the gals of ”Our” Place will be working, except for Cindy – haven’t seen nor heard from her since last Friday’s Birthday Bash – anyway, lunch is on the house for all! [tup] [swg]

To the SUMMARY
QUOTE: Gunns Posted: 29 Jun 2005, 09:27:27
Just checking in,
Coffee and a Danish please,
on the way to work day on the 2926.

More later....
Gunns


QUOTE: Trainnut484 Posted: 29 Jun 2005, 10:00:10
Good morning everyone . I'll just have a coffee. Had breakfast earlier. Gunns, would that be Santa Fe 4-8-4 2926 you're working on? You have my full attention.

Take care,
Russell


QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 29 Jun 2005, 10:32:07
For: Gunns - Kevin and Trainnut484 - Russell G'day and help yourself to the pastries and coffee .... stop on by later for lunch and a brew or two ....

By the by - I encourage you guys to check through these pages - lotsainfo on 'em .... our customers should be eligible for prizes when it comes to writing skills and interesting stories. Would be a shame if you missed 'em.

Any Classic Trains stories or discussions out there [?]
Tom [:D}


QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 29 Jun 2005, 11:47:45
G'day fine folks of "Our" Place Aside from the great lunches that we offer, I have a special treat for you this hot and humid day here in mid-continent USA.

earlydiesels - Dan (remember him from this past Friday's Birthday Bash [?] ) has provided us with a web site to check out:
www.midland-ry.org

This IS well worth your time - what a site and there's some fantastic Classic Trains to gaze at.

I just spent the better part of an hour doing just that, and I'm no where near finished .... check it out guys!

Thanx, Dan - imagine how much work you could get done if you weren't spending so much time drinking beer in this joint [?] [:D]

See y'all!
Tom


QUOTE: Trainnut484 Posted: 29 Jun 2005, 11:57:14
Just poppin' in real quick before having to go the DMV to update car tags. These guys indeed are a great bunch. I knew one of the volunteers from a few years ago when I used to live in Topeka, KS. They were constant "contributors" to the Railroad Days festivals there. Hopefully there will be a cool break from this heat to go down and visit.

Take care,
Russell


QUOTE: West Coast S Posted: 29 Jun 2005, 14:02:46
Long time no see Tom and the gang...

Nothing alcoholic for me, have to attend a Article 32 hearing this afternoon (no, I'm not being charged, at least not this week! ) . I see "Our Place" is more or less intact since I was last in. What do you recommend for lunch? You know, since you have the best eats I trust your judgment.

Calling all SP Fans and a good "what if " for the group from the classic days of steam

I'm curious about some 16mm film of SP steam I had the pleasure to view over my extended weekend, it was shot around the SF bay area in 1956 and one sequence caught my keen attention, that of a unidentified GS class 2 or 3 in freight service with a non GS tender, I'd swear it was from a displaced Cab Forward. Review of my extensive SP archives has produced no evidence to enlighten the mystery regarding possible tender swaps among the GS classes, similar request to SP groups have also been quiet.

Sorry for the quick query, pressed for time today, a quick bite and back to the desk. What do we have planned for the 4th? I say we light Boris off...What a sight that would be!

Dave


QUOTE: coalminer3 Posted: 29 Jun 2005, 14:36:15
Checking in for coffee and a quick "hello" to everybody. We're having loveliy weather here, or as Babe Ruth said once in Washington, "Hot as hell, ain't it prez?" Can't wait for August; at least it's cooler underground.

In keeping with our recent thread on train names, here's another piece of advertising copy; this time from the New York Central in June, 1942. BTW, each train named in the ad included a cut of a streamlined NYC steam locomotive. It was quite a parade.

LEADERS OF THE GREAT STEEL FLEET

The 20th Century Limited
The Pacemaker
The New England States
The Mercury
The Southwestern Limited
The James Whitcomb Riley
The Ohio State Limited
The Detroiter
The Cleveland Limited
The Empire State Express
The Advance Commodore and Commodore Vanderbilt

Today, when all travel is essential travel, it's doubly essential to conserve energy on the way. New York Central's Great Steel Fleet of nearly 100 trains is speeding men of management, vital mail and express betwen America's key cities from the Mississippi to the Atlantic.
New York Central
The Water Level Route - You Can Sleep

work safe


QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 29 Jun 2005, 14:47:26
For: West Coast S - Dave Returned from the Legion of the Lost Luncheon specials right over there on the board between the jars of pigs feet and hard boiled eggs. As always, the hero/hoagie/sub/grinder sandwiches are terrific!

Check out my recent pix of the S-gauge ceiling suspended layout:
http://www.railimages.com/gallery/thomasweber
go to page 5 ...... I'd appreciate your comments. My first venture into S.

Fine, flick Boris' switch then take off .... right! You know, he's not been the same 'round here since his boss, Nick has joined the Legion of the Lostl.

Don't be a stranger ......
Tom


QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 29 Jun 2005, 14:53:34
For: coalminer3
G'day mate and where ya been Was beginnin' to think that you and westcoast S - Dave had checked out on us ..... good seeing you again.

In another life WE used to say, "Hotter 'n a half-f'd fox in a forest fire!" That's about as hot as it is 'round these parts lately.

Love those train names - keep 'em coming! I'll bet passengerfan Al can relate to most of 'em!

So, whatillyahave [?]You do know we're in the money making business 'round here!
Tom


QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 29 Jun 2005, 14:58:20
High-Speed Rail News: (from TransportAction (Transport2000Canada) newsletter of June 5, 2005) (metric conversions by siberianmo)

Mexico:
Mexico’s Ministry of Transport and Communications has appointed Systra, France to assist in the preparation of tender documents for the construction and subsequent operation of a $5 billion (US) high-speed line between Mexico City and Guadalajara. It is hoped to invite bids for the turnkey project later this year. Bidders must include proposals on how to fund the project.

The line would largely follow the route of the existing 613 km/381 mi. railway via Queretaro and Irapuato. This corridor has a population of 28 million. The objective is to link Mexico City and Gudalajara in 2 hours by trains operating at a commercial speed of 300 km/h/186 mph. The bus journey currently takes about 8 hours.

Brazil:
Brazil’s Federal District, the Brazilian state of Goias, and the Italian government have signed a contract for Italian companies to conduct studies and produce engineering designs to enable tenders to be invited for the construction of a 2-5 km/1.24-3.11 mi. railway operating at 250 km/h/127 mi. between Brasilia and Goiania. The line would serve a population of 6 million.

Morocco:
The Moroccan prime minister has announced that his country wants to establish a 500 km/311 mi. high-speed rail link between Casablanca, Marrakech and Agadir by 2015. The existing railway only extends as far south as Marrakech. Moroccan National Railways currently operate nine trains a day in each direction between Casablanca and Marrakech with a journey time of 3h 25 min.

China:
China’s Ministry of Railways released a new five-year development plan in March showing that it would build 10,000 km/6,214 mi. of track between 2006 and 2010, bringing the total length of the country’s railways to 85,000 km/52,817 mi. electrified. The plan calls for construction of more than5000 km of passenger track, doubling more than 4000 km/2,485 mi. of existing track, and electrification of 6000 km/3,728 mi.. The plan equates to construction of 11 new passenger lines and improvement of seven existing corridors across the country.

Germany:
German Rail’s fleet of 59 ICE 1 high-speed trains will be completely modernized by 2008 in a program costing 180 million euros. The trains have been in service for 15 years and the work will extend their working life by another 10 to 15 years. The main focus will be on refurbishing the train interiors with new color schemes, seats, tables and flooring, to bring them up to ICE 3 standards. Power cars will be modernized with new bogie frames developed in cooperation with Bombardier, and air-conditioning will be updated.

===============================

VIA Rail news:

The overnight trains between Montreal and Toronto, the Enterprise along with the Halifax to Sydney seasonal excursion train, the Bras d’Or, have ceased operations for budgetary concerns.
-------------------------------------------------------
So, there you have it - we are diddlilng around with the cessation of passenger service (Amtrak) while the rest of the world is planning in 21st century terms.

Canada is also experiencing financial and political turmoil which has led to many threats of service cut backs to VIA Rail. And the beat goes on ........

Tom


QUOTE: earlydiesels Posted: 29 Jun 2005, 18:31:08
Hello everyone. I'll take something ice cold and bottomless, please. I'm glad you liked our website, Tom. Hope some of our regulars have reviewed it, also. As I told Tom, our webmaster doesn’t update it very often. Some of the "news" on there dates from winter 03-04 when our south end was under construction. Some of the photos are dated, also. Having the other 5.5 miles available for regular use sure lenghens our ride and has some different scenery, too.
I am a member of the museum here in Spfld. We have Frisco 4524, CNW #2 commuter coach, and a baggage car with a BN wide vision caboose. We have lots of exhibits in all the cars and are open on Saturday afternoons or special tours with advance notice. One of our members is working on creating a website.
Russell, most of our members are from the KC and Topeka areas. You probably know some of them. I invite all our regulars to come out and see our railroad. Let me know when and we will try to be there to show you around.
The wife and I are involved in 3-perhaps 4, preservation groups, so our free time is usually taken up. This Saturday we rode a 30" line right outside of town and now the owners want to train me to engineer their train so that is the maybe 4th group.


QUOTE: Gunns Posted: 29 Jun 2005, 18:44:58
I want something cold too,

I just got back, and Yep that is AT&SF 2926 the youngest Loco left from the Santa Fe Steamers a 4-8-4 with ALL roller bearings <even on the side rods and valve gear>
we have a former engineer that said he only got her up to 108 mph......

Another hot one to day,
To day I finally got my rivet set/headers done, found that the one I made to the dimensions of the 7/8ths head rivets was too deep for the length of the rivet shank we had purchased. Therefore I made a second rivet set, that would shape and set the rivets we do have. Saturday will be rivet the foot board day <Grin> Meanwhile out in the sun we worked on the tender trucks, we have two 8 wheel buckeye trucks, numbered 13 <rear> and 4 <front>. We are rebuilding the trucks rear first then the front tender truck. work completed on 13 today was the removal, rust treatment, and replacement of the 5 coil spring sets on the fireman’s rear spring box. this set of 10 springs was held up until we had replaced the sacrificial wear plates around the spring box. Each truck weighs 11 tons, and our 25 ton car jack got a good work out as we raised and lowered the truck frame so as to set the springs in properly. Concurrent to the truck work, another crew was cleaning and rust proofing the hard to get at spaces on the front of the tender. We are using a product called "Rust Bullet" that bonds to the rust and base steel forming a rust proof paintable surface, as the product actually makes a chemical bond to the metal, future rusting is eliminated or greatly reduced, much better than red lead and less toxic too. <Grin> Mean while back at the <ranch?> office a fourth crew was transferring our documents to CD ROM and documenting recent work completed for our FRA inspection. At the end of the day Ken our CMO went around to set up Saturdays work session, plans include, removing all worn bearings for measurement and fabrication of replacements, removal of brake rigging <link plates etc.> so that the wear plates can be renewed, <Our welder is coming Sat.> and of course the foot plate riveting job. Also on the list is the 9 inch hone for the tender truck brake cyls. And the test manifold for the brake lines will be attached and pressurized to test for leaks.
More to come,
Gunns
ps I have found a way to make large head rivet sets that you can use over a 5/8ths punch tool, if any one wants it I'll flip ya the specs.
Gunns


QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 29 Jun 2005, 19:09:31
For: earlydiesels-Dan
Something cold and bottomless coming' up .....

Sounds to me as if you truly enjoy all aspects of RR museum activities. Obviously, you have a skill or three going in - that helps! It occurs to me that without people such as yourself, much of what many of us revere in terms of railroading history, just wouldn't be.

On a different note - any comments on what I posted regarding High-Speed rail [?]
Have one on me!
Tom


QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 29 Jun 2005, 19:19:29
For: Gunns-Kevin
Must be a run on something cold tonight! Here's one of those bottomless beers - they go down real smoooooooth -

What you do with these loco's seems to me to be something that is representative of skills long gone from most of America. From the reading I've done regarding the numbers of people employed when railroading in our country was King, it must have been quite a let down when those skilled people were thrown out of careers. Perhaps the worst part of it had to be knowing it was coming - the handwriting was on the wall.

If our country were to wake up one day and find that rail just had to be modernized and done so quickly, my thoughts are that we'd have a helluva hard time trying to line up the skilled workers to do the jobs. Suppose - just for the sake of discussion - that America wanted to embark upon a serious effort to link our major metropolitan areas by high-speed rail. Suppose that the idea was to go balls to the wall in order to get it up and running. Suppose we wanted to build our own loco's and rolling stock ..... where oh where would we ever find the people to make it happen [?] Oh, well - just supposing.

Have one on me!
Tom


QUOTE: Trainnut484 Posted: 29 Jun 2005, 21:00:24
Hello all,

I'll have a nice ice cold Miller Lite. Trip to the DMV was more pleasant than last time. They have installed an automated "take a number" system that speeds up the waiting time.

Gunns-Kevin, Have fun with the foot board Saturday. I would like to see some pictures of the 2926 restoration, if you have any to share. "EDIT UPDATE" I just visited the website, www.nmrs.org, and all I can say is It is great to see the progress! The 2900 class are my favorite steamers. And not just because the last four digits of my phone number are 2921

earlydiesels-Dan, thanks for reminding me the number of the Frisco engine in Spfld, 4524. And that is a CNW commuter coach. Earlier I wasn't sure (for some reason I was thinking SP, although they had their own commuter coaches). My wife is originally from Springfield, and one of her best friends (from school days) lives very close to the main line. Her back yard edges close to the East end of the yards. I poke my head out of the back door when we visit, and set up a lawn chair w/tea if traffic looks promising. I also make sure I pack my camera.

Take care,
Russell


QUOTE: passengerfan Posted: 29 Jun 2005, 21:13:36
Good evening all well guess I'll have a Crown Royal with water back and a round for the house.
Tom just read your suppose.
Remember it wasn't that long ago they built the Alaska Pipeline and they found skilled workers to complete that project in record time.
After the pipeline was finished had occasion to visit Valdez and saw hundreds of pieces of construction equipment just rusting away seems it was cheaper to write it off this way than send it to the lower 48 for scrapping.
If and I say if they ever decide to extend the ARR to the lower 48 in my lifetime then I will book the first seat on the first train. Having drove the Alcan for six years I have nothing but praise for the Army Corps of Engineers who built the original highway now much improved but constantly being improved even more. As a trucker for those six years winters were the preferable time to drive the Alcan. Summers their were to many tourists and to many RVs and drivers that didn't know what they were doing. Winters we could drive a complete round trip from Seattle to Anchorage in six days. Summers the same trip took seven to eight. Two winters in a row while in the Yukon territory I hit Moose on the highway. The first time I killed the Moose and he killed my truck to the tune of $7000.00 in damages. The second year that Moose I hit at seventy and believe it or not he got up shook himself and ambled off into the brush. The Mounties unloaded a Snowmobile and followed his tracks for about a mile and said he was really picking them up and laying them down. There I was stuck with $15,000 damage to my tractor. My boss gave me a 30-30 rifle for Xmas that year and said it had to be cheaper to hunt Moose with a rifle than my truck.
But seriously it is the most wild unspoiled land in North America and I would love to see a rail line completed in my life time.
I think if High speed rail gets off the ground anywhere in the US besides the NE Corridor it is going to be here in California. Connceting San Diego, Los Angeles, San Jose, Oakland, San Francisco Sacramento, Stockton, Merced, Fresno, Bakersfield and Victorville.

Well Hallelujah – someone actually read the post! Thanx – sometimes on these forums it seems that postings go unnoticed or ignored – especially on those threads that have zillions of readers. We shouldn’t have that problem here with less than a dozen regulars. So thanx again! [tup]
Now – I don’t agree with your premise that because we found sufficient help to build the Alaskan pipeline that we could do the same regarding a build up for high-speed rail throughout the USA. The skill levels are entirely different and I’m not taking anything away from those guys who worked that pipeline. That’s not the issue – it’s like comparing apples and chestnuts. The skill base for railroading manufacturing is limited, if at all, and most has passed into antiquity. Sorry, but that’s my opinion and I think the facts would support it.
Just a tid bit about Alaska – I spent 18 months there (1959-60) and have a great fondness for the place. The ALCAN highway and those Canadian and US Engineers really did a helluva job – The History Channel just recently ran a documentary about it – a rerun. The job was something that happened back then – looking at today, I just wonder …… think about how much time has elapsed and how we’ve changed as a society.
I do agree that California is and has been the nation’s leader regarding passenger rail. Hands down winner. The thing about high-speed rail anywhere is this: are we going to continue with steel wheels on steel track OR are we going to move into the 21st century with MagLev technology or something similar [?]
Fuel prices are going to have to virtually strangle us before we wake up – and by then, we’ll have so many other problems who knows where the priority will be for high-speed rail [?]
Ring the bell, Boris – drinks on me! [swg]
By the way, your Email was responded to yesterday …. Thanx!
Tom

QUOTE: Gunns Posted: 29 Jun 2005, 22:43:29
Winding down for the night,
Just a Apfelsaftschorle, <1/2 apple juice 1/2 mineral water>

For Trainnut484 here is a link to our web site,
http://www.nmrhs.org/
It has a few slide shows, more to come soon, it is just that we have recently acquired, a Machinist <me> and a pair pf stamp certified welders. So lotsa jobs that were piling up are getting knocked out. Soon we will have the tender back together and the boiler work will start. The worst potential damage will be the upper wrapper over the fire box, that is where we will probably find the worst pitting and rust damage. Luckily, the new FRA regs have recognized the advances in welding and inspection methods, and has made repairs easer to complete and certify. We keep telling the world, 6 more years, but really hope to be done and certified by 2012, the Centennial of New Mexico. Also rumor has it that the 3715 will be out here for the Tri-centennial of Albuquerque, if I get any confirmation, I'll let you know. Edit... 2921 eh.. check this out....
http://www.barstowrailmuseum.org/2921_1.html

Trolleyboy-Rob one of our members was up your way last week for his 50th Grade school reunion. He might have run in to you, he is named Paul.
Sat. I am going to fire up our rivet forge, much easer than indivdual heating with a torch, but temp will still be over a 100deg, <low Humidity though, prob about 15%>. In unison "But It's a DRY heat"
Gunns

[yeah] DRY heat! Right. Geez, I remember that expression so many times in so many SW US places. Coming out of a Casino/bar in Laughlin, NV into the mid-afternoon sun was simply wunnerful. “Back to the bar, boys, this DRY heat will stick around for the rest of the day.” [swg]
Tom

QUOTE: trolleyboy Posted: 29 Jun 2005, 23:23:23
Hello everyone. Gunns I don't think he made it by, course I was only at the museum on Thursday last week so if he hit them over the weekend he may have met my father-in-law. I'll have a Guiness tonight I think Tom and some of the beer nuts. BTW we should stop talking about lighting off Boris for the fourth, I saw him trying to do the old "blue flame" in the bathroom. Lord what a mess scorched toilet paper everywhere Tom as long as it's high speed electric I'm all for it coarse I'm likely biased that way. But seriously if you’re going to do the high speed route maglev or electric is the way to go. Just a quick stop by this evening. Didn't Nick say something about going away for a week? That maybe why he's not been around, that or the good Inspector and Nick really tied one on at the birthday party. Did anyone check the shed? See everyone tomorrow. Rob

Concur – let’s leave sleeping Boris lie ….

Couldn’t agree more about MagLev, in fact somewhere on these pages I discussed that technology – invented in the US back in the 70’s and still unused in North America for any serious transportation purposes. Such a shame …..

You may be correct regarding Nick, I browsed back a bit and didn’t come up with anything – but nevertheless, I’ll give him a bit more time before declaring him a member of the Legion of the Lost. [swg] Check the shed – are you out of your cotton pickin’ mind! [?] Anyway, Boris wouldn’t put up with any intruders within his domain – even Nick. No room for anyone, given those inflatable life size gals he has in there! [swg]

Back to mass transport for a sec …. Unless and until Canada and the US gets serious about this, we will continue with the downhill glide. Light-rail has proven to be successful, but the costs are absolutely atrocious. Linking major cities by air is archaic in today’s world of ever escalating fuel prices. Again, I’ve documented this elsewhere on these pages – here in St. Louis an extension of our MetroLink system that will go less than 8 miles is coming in at an estimated cost of over $650 million – up from the original guesstimate of $400 million at inception. Good grief! Okay, I get it …. Boris ring the bell! [#offtopic] [banghead] [censored]
Tom

QUOTE: coalminer3 Posted: 30 June 2005, 08:43:34
Morning all - Another hot and muggy one today. Will be offline for a few days (time for trip to NYC country.) Best wishes to all for a SAFE and happy 4th.
work safe

Enjoy this long weekend and see you next week! You may want to check the Don’t forget our Birthday Bash for *** on Friday the 15th!

Tom (Siberianmo)
Proprietor of “Our” Place

Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
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Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, June 30, 2005 12:26 PM
Wow! Its either "feast or famine" at "Our" Place, isn't it? First, let me catch my breath and an ice cold Molsins, if you please. It took all morning just to check out the "Links" posted since my last toot, I mean visit. Very impressed with the progress made on your S auage (suspension table) layout Tom. What are you using for ballast? The textured effect is nice. I had some doubts on the "suspension" concept before I saw the "method in its' madness" (construction). Good show![tup]

Gunns, I read through the much of the restoration of 2926 and, at the end, didn't know whether to shout "hoorah" or cry. Godfrey Daniel, the "blood sweat and tears" that's gone into that project is staggering. In railroad preservation, you and the team are doing the work of Gaurdian Angels. Trainnut484, my memory is something like a sieve but I believe the Frisco Northern inTulsa is # 4500. If anyone missed the pix of the Herzog Car Topper being loaded/unloaded on the Midland Rwy. site; it is "must see to believe."[:O] Al, know what you mean about the Alaskan Moose hazaards. During the first days of diesel on the Alaskan R.R., huge Bulls were charging trains headlong. Some thought the locomotive's air chime presented a territorial "challenge." I never did hear the final answer to the mystery. Maybe the low growl of the engine, or just plain panic?? Couldn't agree more about the granduer of that State; even the mosquitos are the size of 747's. R.D.C's used to carry a lot of the passenger load before, don't really know how they managed the -40 F.?

Boy, that's a tough one: mass passenger rail transport! Anything that is chosen (MagLev, Bullet elec., et al.) will come to gargantuan expenditures for which most bureaucrats will never present before the tax paying voters.[:(!] Before, there were the Henry Flaglers, Harrimans, Vanderbuilts, Stanfords and others that recognized the needs and "went for it." But today, while the "need" stares us square in the face; where are those people of vision? And, I must agree that amassing a work force that does the "boots on the ground" skilled labor would be a daunting task. We have been "outsourcing" a lot more than just menial labor. Our best medical minds find it more lucrative working over seas too. It's an enigma that better have some answers p.d.q.! Those "answers" will not come from petty politicians we see on CNN lately. Not an easy or pleasant thought, is it?[V]

Okay, I've been jawing enough here to "run for office" myself. Please, drinks all 'round and Oh, I brought plenty of bathroom stationery to cover for Boris' failed experiment.[:O] Tom, you have mail. So long for now. Ted
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Posted by siberianmo on Thursday, June 30, 2005 12:59 PM
For: Ted Good to see you this fine, but oppressively hot day. Enjoy the brew! [tup]

[yeah] We've had some posts lately - nice, isn't it [?] Keeps ME hoppin' in my desire to ensure that everyone gets a fair shot at being "heard" ..... [swg] That's the strong feature of "Our" Place over those post 'n run threads .... don't need that 'round here. [:(!]

Appreciate your taking the time to look at and comment regarding the S-gauge layout. The track is manufactured by an outfit call S-Helper Service (SHS), Inc.
http://www.showcaseline.com/index2.html if you're interested in checking out their track, etc. S-Trax (is what it is called) features realistic weathered ties on roadbed. Very impressive - but oh so pricey.

The F7 and Caboose is made by SHS, whereas the EMD E8, passenger and freight cars are made by American Models: http://www.americanmodels.com/

The dual power AC transformer is made by MRC: http://www.modelrec.com/

An interesting size - 1:64 - what many would refer to as the old American Flyer - but these aren't toys by any stretch. Really impressed with it - but I'd never be able to afford this stuff in the quantities of my HO layout. No way, no how. I'd have to retire thrice from the military, mortgage my home, hock the valuable, and lease out Juneau for the Iditerod just to purchase the loco's alone. For example, my most expensive HO loco ran about $50 (within the past 2 years) whereas those S-gauge jobs go for 600 percent more! They DO have sound boards and really operate wonderfully well - but they should at those prices! Would gag a healthy maggot, no doubt. [^]

Boris ding-a-ling time, drinks on me - [#offtopic] once again! Ring the bell, Boris the bell! Geesh! [swg]

You are absolutely correct, Sir regarding high-speed rail and its obstacles for implemtation these days in the US. Couldn't have stated it better ..... We almost got a leg of the mid-west high speed system here in St. Louis - the segment from Chicago. Unfortuantely, it appears that all is stalled or stalemated these days with the uncertainty of budgets - Amtrak, etc. Within Missouri, it's a complete zero effort to link St. Louis with KCity. We aren't part of the mid-west compact of states that really put forth one helluva an effort for this project, albeit steel wheels on steel tracks, but high-speed nonetheless. So exasperating, especially when I look back on the 4 years of being part of what I thought would be the solution. Unfortunately, it was just part of the continuing problem.

Okay - Boris ring it again! At this rate, I'll have to hock the bar to pay the bar bill. [censored] [banghead]

Thanx for the bathroom supplies - we just got around to replacing those light bulbs - have no idea what happened there. [%-)]

Just checked the Email nothing yet ..... but I'm sure it's on the way. Thanx!

Enjoy and thanx for the round of cheer! [tup] [;)]
Tom
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Posted by siberianmo on Thursday, June 30, 2005 1:02 PM
Tonight IS Fish 'n Chips night .... there won't be any Nick's Picks because we don't know where our Chief Chef [C=:-)] is.

No matter - same good times, cold brew, and our 4 gals will be here to serve you!

Stop by and enjoy! [tup] [swg]

Don't forget about tomorrow and the free drinks, if you qualify, for Canada Day [;)]

Tom
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Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, June 30, 2005 2:09 PM
Tom, I don't know what happened to the mail message I sent this a.m. I've been having some "issues" with Verizon DSL w/MSN Premium. I hate to infringe on this thread with "two party" data but its the only certain method for now. The possible AmTrak event I'd hoped for can't be in K.C., Mo afterall. My Uncle (77 yrs.) is in failing health and a visit would cause a great inconvenience. My plan is now for St. Pete to New Orleans (date T.B.D.) and return. It involves a charter bus (to Orlando) and the Sunset Limited to N. O., LA. leaving here Sunday 10:05 am, arr. N.O., LA Monday 9:20 am-- --Dep. N.O., LA. Tuesday 10:30 pm, Arr. St. Pete 11:40 pm Wednesday. I'll have Monday and Tuesday in N.O. (daytime) to ride the trolleys and two nice meal at Arnaud's. I don't "do" Bourbon St any more since "Heavy Metal" supplanted Dixie groups (might hit Preservation Hall). Possibly a roomette on return leg. Coach is only $100.00 + fees, so I can "spring" for the "sack time" returning. Sorry to take up valuable space so I'll keep it short. Ted
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Posted by siberianmo on Thursday, June 30, 2005 2:41 PM
Ted Understand the frustration with the thrilling world of hi-tech, et al. Just got off a 2-hour phone call trying to get wireless and router difficulties straightened out. For awhile there I thought I was in the United Nation's General Assembly. [:(!]

Should the occasion come up for KCity, let me know. Your Narlins itinerary sounds great ... Once upon a time in a different life, I'd get down there about 4 times a year over a 5 year span .... Insofar as Amtrak is concerned, couldn't handle coach anymore - even the comfort of a Superlliner is in the past for me. Oh but those bedroom prices are outta sight!

Okay - Boris ring it again - once for Ted and once for me! Argggggggh [#offtopic]
Tom
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Posted by Trainnut484 on Thursday, June 30, 2005 4:26 PM
Afternoon all,

I'll just take a Diet Coke this time. There's a post in the TRAINS forum about "Train chasing vehicles." Instead of starting a different thread, I thought I'd just share mine here.

My first train chaser was a 1977 chevy 1/2 ton pickup. The best thing about it was I could drive on maintenance roads that were so rugged that a regular car would get "high centered" or bust an axle somewhere. Nothing like sitting on the tailgate close to trackside with scanner, camera, and "liquid refreshments". It has found its way into some of my train pictures. Sometimes I miss that truck, but with today's gas prices [:0], I'm glad I don't have to worry about filling those dual tanks.

Take care,

Russell
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Posted by siberianmo on Thursday, June 30, 2005 4:45 PM
For: Trainnut484-Russell
Never did it - never even thought of doing it - but I can well imagine the fun of chasing trains. Why not dig through some of those photo's and post a few of your shots here [?] Maybe even a Classic Train or two!

Diet coke [?] You gotta be kidding! No diet anything in thisjoint place! Herer's a real Coke ........ [swg]

Tom
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Posted by Gunns on Thursday, June 30, 2005 10:01 PM
Hi All,

Coffee and danish for me, Yep I'm off to work. More from there after first rounds.

Ted thanks for the complement, but it is just bloodey minded persistance on our parts. <grin> Back in a bit.
Gunns
http://www.nmslrhs.org/
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Posted by CFournier on Thursday, June 30, 2005 11:52 PM
OK, I'm back home and finally off the hook,( chest tube..)
Sorry that I was unable to communicate by email or post on this forum, but I was in a lot of pain, had strong medication and had a few setbacks as the surgeon said. I will not go to work untill early august and will take it easy to recover fully from this 'faux pas'..
Gee, I have 6 or 7 pages of forum posts to catch up !!!
See you all later, and thank you all for the good words.
CHRIS [xx(]
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Posted by trolleyboy on Friday, July 1, 2005 12:11 AM
Good evening folks.It's officially Canada Day my time so Tom do I get a free nightcap?[:D] A happy and safe upcomming fourth as well for those of you bellow the 49th. I'm spending the first at the Museum with Heather and her Dad. The three of us don't generally get to crew together so it will be a fun day. Tom[.b] email recieved and replied to. Gunns I concur whole heartedly persistance and one tracked, dogged determination makes the restoration wheels turn. We lost the reverser on one end of our MS&C car but in true HCRY fashion we will run with the one end till the parts can be fabricated in our shop. Thank God for double ended cars. Speaking of which[b]Ted Enjoy the Pearly Thomase's hope to see some photo's.have a good safe trip even though the reason for going's not the best. Well gents sfe and happy trails i'll catch up with you all tomorrow. Oh Tom the contents of the shed more info than any of us wanted That's just plain wrong![:O][XX(] Later all Rob
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Posted by trolleyboy on Friday, July 1, 2005 12:18 AM
Chris i'm glad to see you back. We were all quite worried about you.I hope this ends up being a good long weekend for you! Tom I like the start on your "s" experiment. from what I understand there are quite a few good traction models available! I may have another convert for the dark light side(electric) Nite all Rob
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Posted by Gunns on Friday, July 1, 2005 12:56 AM
Coffee please,
First rounds are over, one squeekey air handler adjusted.., have time to set. I have another question for all, "what tools do you consider essential for working on trains?" My first one is an accurate mesuring device, and lotsa others.
Gunns
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Posted by Gunns on Friday, July 1, 2005 3:57 AM
Back, Coffee, and a sandwich.
I appreciat ya'll leav'n the dor open at night for me <Grin>
just had to fix a #@$%#@%$ electronic door latch... 3 built in points of failure, but I wrestled it in to submission. some times I wonder what is so wrong with a "Key"

Rob My daughter just moved down from Chatham Ont. We wanted to get her here closer so we could help with the Kids. It's been a real change for her, low humidity and no green, on the positive side we have a ski resort on the other side of the mountain that borders the East side of town. And she has found a job and an apartment with in a month and a half of getting here. <G> I need to build an adapter to fit our impact wrench that will also fit the square tang of the cleanout holes of the siphons in the firebox, any Ideas? I was thinking of turning down a chunk of 6" stock to fit the plug, drilling a hole and carving in the corners for the female side, and indexing the male side on the crosshead of the lathe with a mill in the chuck, for the tang that fits the impact tool. <Our mill has not yet arrived>

Also I compleated the layout of the Builders Plate tonight, now I need to start carving it out, and sealing it so I can cast the plates, <thank goodness for the existance of wood putty> the biggest chalange will be getting the lettering right, and maintaining the beval on the letters so that I can get the pattern to release from the sand.

Gunns
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Posted by passengerfan on Friday, July 1, 2005 7:28 AM
Great to hear from Chris he had us quite concerned for awhile.
Guess because of the hour I better settle for coffee and a diet Danish. (Piece of whole wheat Toast with a wish) My Doc says he doesn't ever remember me carrying this much weight. So he has put me on a rather strict diet.
He says no more young ladies either stay with the older ladies better for my heart. Who's he kidding!
Anyway nice to hear from Chris will be back this evening.
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Posted by Anonymous on Friday, July 1, 2005 8:55 AM
Happy Canada Day to both sides of the 49th; those "in residence" and "displaced persons" below. May I lift my Stein to a Country that managed to win its' sovereignty in a bloodless civilized fashion. Hear, hear! This is a special celebration honouring a great Country and a favorite Native Son, Chris Fournier. We're all pulling for you friend and hope you're "full head of steam" real soon.[tup] BTW, Boris dusts off your "first stool" daily, albeit with his cook's apron![:O] Methinks Nick [C=:-)] is lying low until after the Fourth festivities. Blimey Mate, we Colonists just enjoy burning up money and setting fire to things-- --nothing to do with that spat 230 years ago![swg]

Gunns, you might just as well ask some of us to do our own brain surgery as machining tools for a "square tang."[;)] Personally, I would recommend a little chicken soup....not for the impact wrench...for lunch. Best-a-luck to ya and glad to hear your daughter and grand kids are in town. Keep your check book handy.

Rob, thanks for the thought on "N'arlins" (quote Tom) and the "Pearly" cars. Last time I rode one, I nearly ended at the "Pearly Gates:" full lock-up emergency stop for some Bourbon St. refugee on a bicycle.[:(!] Hey, the cars down by the River (Mississippi) are great too. I hope Dave's book is moving forward. I'd like to buy a copy before I'm too senile and blind to enjoy the "pichers," duhh.[zzz]

Okay Boris, ring that sucker (bell) again, this round's on me. Wattaya mean somebody stole the clapper? Great Granny's Gummers, first the light bulbs, then the "wet" twilight paper, now the "freebe bell" (nautical time keeper). Is nothing sacred anymore? Never mind, just hit the cuspidore with your soup ladel. HAPPY CANADA DAY to one and all. Oh, Tom more on K.C. a.s.a.p., thanks.
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Posted by siberianmo on Friday, July 1, 2005 10:02 AM
HAPPY CANADA DAY 2005!

(Click to enlarge)


From the guys at "Our" Place to all our friends north of the 49th ..... enjoy this wonderful holiday weekend!

Drinks free to all who claim Canada as home - OR - who have relatives in Canada - OR - who have ever visited Canada - OR - know where Canada is! [tup] [;)]

Tom (Siberianmo}
Proprietor of "Our" Place
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
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Posted by siberianmo on Friday, July 1, 2005 11:41 AM
FRIDAY SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS (edited)

[#welcome] Back Chris! Thanx for the Email and know that your friends at ”Our” Place are pulling for you! [tup] [swg]

And again - HAPPY CANADA DAY 2005! to all of our friends north of the border.[tup][swg]

The start of a new month - hard to believe, huh?

Got off to a slow start this fine day, and I’m not sure why. The harder I worked, the behinder I got – or something like that. [swg] Spent a lot of time with my digital camera trying to figure out how to get close ups with everything in focus – near and background – still have to play with it …. Don’t you just love this tech age we’re in [?][swg]

So, here’s the SUMMARY without many of the smilies, graphics and photo’s ….. and with limited comments from yours truly![tup]
QUOTE: Theodorebear Posted: 30 Jun 2005, 12:26:46
Wow! Its either "feast or famine" at "Our" Place, isn't it? First, let me catch my breath and an ice cold Molson’s, if you please. It took all morning just to check out the "Links" posted since my last toot, I mean visit. Very impressed with the progress made on your S gauge (suspension table) layout Tom. What are you using for ballast? The textured effect is nice. I had some doubts on the "suspension" concept before I saw the "method in its' madness" (construction). Good show!

Gunns, I read through the much of the restoration of 2926 and, at the end, didn't know whether to shout "hoorah" or cry. Godfrey Daniel, the "blood sweat and tears" that's gone into that project is staggering. In railroad preservation, you and the team are doing the work of Guardian Angels. Trainnut484, my memory is something like a sieve but I believe the Frisco Northern in Tulsa is # 4500. If anyone missed the pix of the Herzog Car Topper being loaded/unloaded on the Midland Rwy. site; it is "must see to believe." Al, know what you mean about the Alaskan Moose hazards. During the first days of diesel on the Alaskan R.R., huge Bulls were charging trains headlong. Some thought the locomotive's air chime presented a territorial "challenge." I never did hear the final answer to the mystery. Maybe the low growl of the engine, or just plain panic?? Couldn't agree more about the granduer of that State; even the mosquitoes are the size of 747's. R.D.C's used to carry a lot of the passenger load before, don't really know how they managed the -40 F.?

Boy, that's a tough one: mass passenger rail transport! Anything that is chosen (MagLev, Bullet elec., et al.) will come to gargantuan expenditures for which most bureaucrats will never present before the tax paying voters. Before, there were the Henry Flaglers, Harrimans, Vanderbuilts, Stanfords and others that recognized the needs and "went for it." But today, while the "need" stares us square in the face; where are those people of vision? And, I must agree that amassing a work force that does the "boots on the ground" skilled labor would be a daunting task. We have been "outsourcing" a lot more than just menial labor. Our best medical minds find it more lucrative working over seas too. It's an enigma that better have some answers p.d.q.! Those "answers" will not come from petty politicians we see on CNN lately. Not an easy or pleasant thought, is it?

Okay, I've been jawing enough here to "run for office" myself. Please, drinks all 'round and Oh, I brought plenty of bathroom stationery to cover for Boris' failed experiment. Tom, you have mail. So long for now. Ted


QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 30 Jun 2005, 12:59:02
For: Ted Good to see you this fine, but oppressively hot day. Enjoy the brew!

[yeah] We've had some posts lately - nice, isn't it [?] Keeps ME hoppin' in my desire to ensure that everyone gets a fair shot at being "heard" ..... That's the strong feature of "Our" Place over those post 'n run threads .... don't need that 'round here.

Appreciate your taking the time to look at and comment regarding the S-gauge layout. The track is manufactured by an outfit call S-Helper Service (SHS), Inc.
http://www.showcaseline.com/index2.html if you're interested in checking out their track, etc. S-Trax (is what it is called) features realistic weathered ties on roadbed. Very impressive - but oh so pricey.

The F7 and Caboose is made by SHS, whereas the EMD E8, passenger and freight cars are made by American Models: http://www.americanmodels.com/

The dual power AC transformer is made by MRC: http://www.modelrec.com/

An interesting size - 1:64 - what many would refer to as the old American Flyer - but these aren't toys by any stretch. Really impressed with it - but I'd never be able to afford this stuff in the quantities of my HO layout. No way, no how. I'd have to retire thrice from the military, mortgage my home, hock the valuable, and lease out Juneau for the Iditerod just to purchase the loco's alone. For example, my most expensive HO loco ran about $50 (within the past 2 years) whereas those S-gauge jobs go for 600 percent more! They DO have sound boards and really operate wonderfully well - but they should at those prices! Would gag a healthy maggot, no doubt.

Boris ding-a-ling time, drinks on me – [#offtopic] once again! Ring the bell, Boris the bell! Geesh!

You are absolutely correct, Sir regarding high-speed rail and its obstacles for implemtation these days in the US. Couldn't have stated it better ..... We almost got a leg of the mid-west high speed system here in St. Louis - the segment from Chicago. Unfortuantely, it appears that all is stalled or stalemated these days with the uncertainty of budgets - Amtrak, etc. Within Missouri, it's a complete zero effort to link St. Louis with KCity. We aren't part of the mid-west compact of states that really put forth one helluva an effort for this project, albeit steel wheels on steel tracks, but high-speed nonetheless. So exasperating, especially when I look back on the 4 years of being part of what I thought would be the solution. Unfortunately, it was just part of the continuing problem.

Okay - Boris ring it again! At this rate, I'll have to hock the bar to pay the bar bill. [censored] [banghead]

Thanx for the bathroom supplies - we just got around to replacing those light bulbs - have no idea what happened there.

Just checked the Email nothing yet ..... but I'm sure it's on the way. Thanx!

Enjoy and thanx for the round of cheer!
Tom


QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 30 Jun 2005, 13:02:22
Tonight IS Fish 'n Chips night .... there won't be any Nick's Picks because we don't know where our Chief Chef is.

No matter - same good times, cold brew, and our 4 gals will be here to serve you!

Stop by and enjoy!

Don't forget about tomorrow and the free drinks, if you qualify, for Canada Day
Tom


QUOTE: Theodorebear Posted: 30 Jun 2005, 14:09:13
Tom, I don't know what happened to the mail message I sent this a.m. I've been having some "issues" with Verizon DSL w/MSN Premium. I hate to infringe on this thread with "two party" data but its the only certain method for now. The possible AmTrak event I'd hoped for can't be in K.C., Mo after all. My Uncle (77 yrs.) is in failing health and a visit would cause a great inconvenience. My plan is now for St. Pete to New Orleans (date T.B.D.) and return. It involves a charter bus (to Orlando) and the Sunset Limited to N. O., LA. leaving here Sunday 10:05 am, arr. N.O., LA Monday 9:20 am-- --Dep. N.O., LA. Tuesday 10:30 pm, Arr. St. Pete 11:40 pm Wednesday. I'll have Monday and Tuesday in N.O. (daytime) to ride the trolleys and two nice meal at Arnaud's. I don't "do" Bourbon St any more since "Heavy Metal" supplanted Dixie groups (might hit Preservation Hall). Possibly a roomette on return leg. Coach is only $100.00 + fees, so I can "spring" for the "sack time" returning. Sorry to take up valuable space so I'll keep it short. Ted


QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 30 Jun 2005, 14:41:44
Ted Understand the frustration with the thrilling world of hi-tech, et al. Just got off a 2-hour phone call trying to get wireless and router difficulties straightened out. For awhile there I thought I was in the United Nation's General Assembly.

Should the occasion come up for KCity, let me know. Your N’arlins itinerary sounds great ... Once upon a time in a different life, I'd get down there about 4 times a year over a 5 year span .... Insofar as Amtrak is concerned, couldn't handle coach anymore - even the comfort of a Superliner is in the past for me. Oh but those bedroom prices are outta sight!

Okay - Boris ring it again - once for Ted and once for me! Argggggggh [#offtopic]
Tom


QUOTE: Trainnut484 Posted: 30 Jun 2005, 16:26:09
Afternoon all,

I'll just take a Diet Coke this time. There's a post in the TRAINS forum about "Train chasing vehicles." Instead of starting a different thread, I thought I'd just share mine here.

My first train chaser was a 1977 chevy 1/2 ton pickup. The best thing about it was I could drive on maintenance roads that were so rugged that a regular car would get "high centered" or bust an axle somewhere. Nothing like sitting on the tailgate close to trackside with scanner, camera, and "liquid refreshments". It has found its way into some of my train pictures. Sometimes I miss that truck, but with today's gas prices , I'm glad I don't have to worry about filling those dual tanks.

Take care,
Russell


QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 30 Jun 2005, 16:45:54
For: Trainnut484-Russell
Never did it - never even thought of doing it - but I can well imagine the fun of chasing trains. Why not dig through some of those photo's and post a few of your shots here [?] Maybe even a Classic Train or two!

Diet coke [?]You gotta be kidding! No diet anything in this joint place! Herer's a real Coke ........
Tom


QUOTE: Gunns Posted: 30 Jun 2005, 22:01:00
Hi All,

Coffee and Danish for me, Yep I'm off to work. More from there after first rounds.

Ted thanks for the complement, but it is just bloody minded persistence on our parts. <grin> Back in a bit.
Gunns


QUOTE: CFournier Posted: 30 Jun 2005, 23:52:03
OK, I'm back home and finally off the hook, (chest tube)
Sorry that I was unable to communicate by email or post on this forum, but I was in a lot of pain, had strong medication and had a few setbacks as the surgeon said. I will not go to work until early august and will take it easy to recover fully from this 'faux pas'..
Gee, I have 6 or 7 pages of forum posts to catch up !!!
See you all later, and thank you all for the good words.
CHRIS [xx(]

Relieved to know that you are still with us – really had us wondering and worrying! Positive thoughts to you my friend – best wishes for a full and speedy recovery. I know the speedy part of that wish is past due – so let’s just hope that when you are up and about again, all of this will be but a memory never to be repeated again!
Tom

QUOTE: trolleyboy Posted: 01 July 2005, 00:11:42
Good evening folks. It's officially Canada Day my time so Tom do I get a free nightcap? A happy and safe upcoming fourth as well for those of you bellow the 49th.

I'm spending the first at the Museum with Heather and her Dad. The three of us don't generally get to crew together so it will be a fun day.

Tom email received and replied to.

Gunns I concur whole heartedly persistance and one tracked, dogged determination makes the restoration wheels turn. We lost the reverser on one end of our MS&C car but in true HCRY fashion we will run with the one end till the parts can be fabricated in our shop. Thank God for double ended cars.

Speaking of whichTed Enjoy the Pearly Thomase's hope to see some photo's. have a good safe trip even though the reason for going's not the best. Well gents sfe and happy trails i'll catch up with you all tomorrow.

Oh Tom the contents of the shed more info than any of us wanted That's just plain wrong! Later all Rob

As stated somewhere herein Free drinks for all who call Canada home – OR – those who have relatives in Canada – OR – those who have visited Canada – OR – those who know where Canada is! [swg]

Got your Email appreciate your thoughts … means a lot. [tup]

You, shocked [?] Then I’d suggest you NOT go anywhere near the shed …. Obviously you haven’t been to sea for months on end ….. (just kidding!) [swg]
Tom

QUOTE: trolleyboy Posted: 01 July 2005, 00:18:33
Chris I'm glad to see you back. We were all quite worried about you. I hope this ends up being a good long weekend for you!

Tom I like the start on your "s" experiment. From what I understand there are quite a few good traction models available! I may have another convert for the dark light side (electric) Nite all Rob

Appreciate the comments ….. The S-gauge layout has attracted all kinds of attention from a couple of friends of mine. One guys has grand plans for structures, the other for track! Anyway, this 7 x 8 ft. layout was built to be saturated with track and trains. No room for anything else. I’m just going to landscape it and let it go at that. Sorry – have to think about traction for the Can-Am HO layout in the City scene.
When you come down to St. Louis, that will be YOUR project – coming up with a way to incorporate it! Fair enough [?] [swg]
Tom

QUOTE: Gunns Posted: 01 July 2005, 00:56:00
Coffee please,
First rounds are over, one squeeky air handler adjusted.., have time to set. I have another question for all, "what tools do you consider essential for working on trains?" My first one is an accurate measuring device, and lotsa others.
Gunns


QUOTE: Gunns Posted: 01 July 2005, 03:57:10
Back, Coffee, and a sandwich.
I appreciate ya'll leav'n the dor open at night for me <Grin>
just had to fix a #@$%#@%$ electronic door latch... 3 built in points of failure, but I wrestled it in to submission. some times I wonder what is so wrong with a "Key"

Rob My daughter just moved down from Chatham Ont. We wanted to get her here closer so we could help with the Kids. It's been a real change for her, low humidity and no green, on the positive side we have a ski resort on the other side of the mountain that borders the East side of town. And she has found a job and an apartment with in a month and a half of getting here. <G> I need to build an adapter to fit our impact wrench that will also fit the square tang of the cleanout holes of the siphons in the firebox, any Ideas? I was thinking of turning down a chunk of 6" stock to fit the plug, drilling a hole and carving in the corners for the female side, and indexing the male side on the crosshead of the lathe with a mill in the chuck, for the tang that fits the impact tool. <Our mill has not yet arrived>

Also I completed the layout of the Builders Plate tonight, now I need to start carving it out, and sealing it so I can cast the plates, <thank goodness for the existence of wood putty> the biggest challenge will be getting the lettering right, and maintaining the bevel on the letters so that I can get the pattern to release from the sand.
Gunns


QUOTE: passengerfan Posted: 01 July 2005, 07:28:34
Great to hear from Chris he had us quite concerned for awhile.
Guess because of the hour I better settle for coffee and a diet Danish. (Piece of whole wheat Toast with a wish) My Doc says he doesn't ever remember me carrying this much weight. So he has put me on a rather strict diet.
He says no more young ladies either stay with the older ladies better for my heart. Who's he kidding!
Anyway nice to hear from Chris will be back this evening.


QUOTE: Theodorebear Posted: 01 July 2005, 08:55:04
Happy Canada Day to both sides of the 49th; those "in residence" and "displaced persons" below. May I lift my Stein to a Country that managed to win its' sovereignty in a bloodless civilized fashion. Hear, hear! This is a special celebration honouring a great Country and a favorite Native Son, Chris Fournier. We're all pulling for you friend and hope you're "full head of steam" real soon.

BTW, Boris dusts off your "first stool" daily, albeit with his cook's apron! Methinks Nick is lying low until after the Fourth festivities. Blimey Mate, we Colonists just enjoy burning up money and setting fire to things-- --nothing to do with that spat 230 years ago!

Gunns, you might just as well ask some of us to do our own brain surgery as machining tools for a "square tang." Personally, I would recommend a little chicken soup....not for the impact wrench...for lunch. Best-a-luck to ya and glad to hear your daughter and grand kids are in town. Keep your check book handy.

Rob, thanks for the thought on "N'arlins" (quote Tom) and the "Pearly" cars. Last time I rode one, I nearly ended at the "Pearly Gates:" full lock-up emergency stop for some Bourbon St. refugee on a bicycle. Hey, the cars down by the River (Mississippi) are great too. I hope Dave's book is moving forward. I'd like to buy a copy before I'm too senile and blind to enjoy the "pichers," duhh.

Okay Boris, ring that sucker (bell) again, this round's on me. Wattaya mean somebody stole the clapper? Great Granny's Gummers, first the light bulbs, then the "wet" twilight paper, now the "freebe bell" (nautical time keeper). Is nothing sacred anymore? Never mind, just hit the cuspidore with your soup ladel. HAPPY CANADA DAY to one and all. Oh, Tom more on K.C. a.s.a.p., thanks.


QUOTE: siberianmo Posted: 01 July 2005, 10:02:21
HAPPY CANADA DAY 2005!

(Click to enlarge)


From the guys at "Our" Place to all our friends north of the 49th ..... enjoy this wonderful holiday weekend!

Drinks free to all who claim Canada as home - OR - who have relatives in Canada - OR - who have ever visited Canada - OR - know where Canada is! [tup][;)]


Tom (Siberianmo)
Proprietor of “Our” Place


Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
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Posted by Anonymous on Friday, July 1, 2005 7:21 PM
Hello everyone. I'll take one of those cold, bottomless, draughts again, please. Thanks for the kind words about volunteering, Tom. I just love trains and realized several years ago that I could continue to be one of those railfans that sit around and look at pix or I could go out and help preserve what's left and hopefully get younger people involved in preservation. One of our biggest challenges at all the groups we belong to is attracting and keeping new blood. At the Midland, we have a Boy Scout program that benefits all involved and has given us several good members over the years, but we still have a tremendous need for younger folks. The wife and I are some of the youngest members on the rr. I would think that a railfan who is really interested in rrs would jump at the chance to help operate a real, live full size railroad-especially with a large metro area so close. I sure did-and we live 228 miles away! After helping out at the Midland for 8 years, I have realized lots of railfans just worship the equipment. Yeah, some of it is nice and I am glad it's been preserved, but the rolling stock has to be viewed as part of a much larger picture. It's also cold and lifeless without humans around.
Many people of all ages have never ridden a train of any kind and these are the people who enjoy themselves the most and also could care less about what kind of equipment we have so long as it is comfortable. This segment of our patrons also pays most of our bills.
This is not meant to be a diatribe against railfans. All of us are railfans and would'nt be doing any of this if we did not enjoy it. Most of us watch trains when we get a chance and some of us do special trips to look at different trains.
Good Grief! I don't know where that came from and I need another beer! Gunns, people like you are the backbone of the preservation movement. I am just into operations and don't have much mechanical background. I don't even change the oil in our trucks anymore. Chris, good to hear from you again. Hang in there!
Tomorrow we will be at the rr so will be back Monday. Is OUR PLACE open on the 4th, Tom? Russ, if you aren't busy you should visit the Midland Saturday or Sunday and say hello. I am marked up for relief(switch) engineer both days but just got an IM that our passing siding might be back in service tomorrow so I may be floating whereever I'm needed.
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Posted by siberianmo on Friday, July 1, 2005 8:04 PM
Hi earlydiesels-Dan and everyone! Friday night at the bar and the steaks 'n fries are ready for eatin' ........ beer is cold, the gals are workin ..... Juke is blarin' out some tunes and the pool tables are waitn' - What more could you ask for [?] [tup] Whatillyahave [?]

Check out the beginning of Thursday's SUMMARY - good things happenin' here on the 4th! [swg]

I know exactly where you're coming from .... and I agree with your assessemnt of preservationists and those who give a hoot about making sure that this country's loco's and rolling stock isn't confiined to just pictures and film.

Those who possess the skills to bring alive the E8's - steam loco's - F7's - heavyweights - cabooses - PA's - trolleys, et al - deserve one helluva pat on the back for what they do. [tup] [swg]

It doesn't end there, though. Some are equally gifted in ensuring that the operations go off without a hitch - that the interiors look and feel the way they once did - that the total experience of yesterday's railroads can be recreated, even for a small segment of time! So you , and your wife, are in that category Dan, appreciated and needed as well! [tup] [swg]

Enjoy the weekend!
Tom
Happy Railroading! Siberianmo
  • Member since
    January 2004
  • From: New Mexico <Red Chilli>
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Posted by Gunns on Friday, July 1, 2005 11:41 PM
Hi all,
coffee, and a sandwich.

Well I ruined my first pattern for the builders plate, not a great loss though, the materials were not up to the job of being carved to form. Plywood is too corse grained to stand up to the carving, but I learned a lot and got a good feel for the layout. Next attempt will be with masonite and will have seperatly made letters glued on to the plate, then the masonite pattern will be glued tp plywood to make up the thickness I need. Tomorrow is work day again, and a report will be forth coming. first rounds went well with nothing much to report at work, a slow night is a good night in my job<g>.
later,
Gunns
http://www.nmslrhs.org/
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Posted by trolleyboy on Saturday, July 2, 2005 1:20 AM
Good evening everyone. It was a long and tiring July 1st but we had a great crowd and even better weather at the museum.Tom I think in honour of my country I'll have a couple of draft mooseheads and a crown chaser. (I'm off tthe clock and brought a seatbelt for the stool)Gunns I'm not a machinist but I would think that your on the right path for the impac gun.I know are guys tend to use manual tools for most work but none of our equipment contains large high pressure boilers.The tools of the trade just don't exist other than museum pieces(which we still use}we've been luskey enough to get tools donated from various sorces over the years which were built specifically towork on our type of equipment.Our guys have "built tools" when needed we even gone to B&D and other tool companies and had specific old imperial measure tools made for us $$$ but necessary as none of our cars wer built with metric parts.Shop wise i'd say a fully equiped wood and metal shop with lathes,milling machines shears etc.Good air supply compressor for the impac tools and above all the skilled people to operate them. I'm usual;y the shop gofer as in gofer the tool. Our I'm the grind and clean up guy. Oh well one starts at the bottom while learning.TedNot good to put the cars in emergancy like that most electrics will stand on their nose never good for the riding public. I remeber one of our operators who never quite learned how to run a Whitt, we ended up not giving him a ticket as he was just hopeless in training.It is a knack and some people just aren't cut out for it.My father in law remembers training this gut and he let the pressure on the deadman off which instantly dumps the air and puts the car into emergency.(on the Peter Whitt's one must exert downward pressure on the controller while moving the car. This is the deadman kill switch ) Unfortunatly 2786 the Whitt in question had the original K37 controller with westinghouse brakes, so once the air dumps the brake cylanders lock.So the shop guys have to manually release the cylander on the trucks to free up the brakes.25 minute job. Thankfully our training sessions are all after hours ! All the whitt's have had this feature modernized so one no longer needs to manually free the brakes in an emergancy stop situation.Tom Don't tempt me, if you order some bowsers for the can am I will come ( hack saw and trolley wire in hand ) I've never been to St Louis and would someday like to see it. Well gents I'm a tired and heading for the carbarn. Talk to you all tomorrow. Rob
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Posted by trolleyboy on Saturday, July 2, 2005 1:25 AM
Tom your right I never have been to sea.I did think of joining the RCN but ended up on a differant career path.Mind you ships are an alternate hobby of mine and I did have a one week cruise of lake ontario once. But that's way [#offtopic] so let me grab a round. Nite all.
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Posted by Gunns on Saturday, July 2, 2005 2:38 AM
More Coffee!!,
An Idea just Smote me,
and Ya'll are elected to vette it, our tender has 8 wheel buckeye trucks under it, these trucks have 4 points where the side frames are pivoted to a mainframe for equlization <dont mind the spelling it's late>, we need to bore out the frames to replace the bearings. The commercial machine costs 16000.00 and more than we want to pay even to rent, Sooo, I am thinking of building a parallel from 3 inch angle iron <a top angle welded to two side angles > placeing that across the truck frames above the pivot to be bored, straping it down then strapping a drill press <striped of its table and base> so that the center line if the drills advance is pointed down the center of the pivot point of the truck. We then put a fly cutter in the chuck <adjusted to cut the needed dia.> and punch out our holes to the right size for the new bearings. A tool extender may be needed to make the full deapth of cut, but that shoulden't be a problem.

Am I missing something? <other than knowing how to spell>
Gunns
http://www.nmslrhs.org/

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