"OUR" PLACE - SEE NEW THREAD!

[siberianmo]

We open at 6 AM (all times zones!). (Don’t ask how we do that!)[swg]


SATURDAY’s INFO & SUMMARY of POSTS


Good Saturday Morning! Start the day with a cup of freshly brewed coffee, some pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery and a selection from our Menu Board for a <light> or <traditional> breakfast![tup]


Repeat: Birthday Bash! scheduled for Monday, March 13th at 2 PM (Central) Combined party for barndad Doug ‘n LoveDomes Lars


Daily Wisdom

When asked if Joe DiMaggio was fast, Yogi said, “No, he just got there in time.”[swg]
(yogi-ism)


Info for the Day:

Railroads from Yesteryear: Southern Railway (SOU) arrives next Tuesday! This will be the THEME for the DAY!

* Weekly Calendar:

TODAY: Steak ‘n Trimmin’s Nite! – and –
ENCORE! Saturday


SUMMARY

Name …..…………… Date/Time …..…..………. (Page#) .. Remarks

(1) siberianmo Tom Posted: 10 Mar 2006, 05:22:21 (270) Friday’s Info & Summary

(2) siberianmo Tom Posted: 10 Mar 2006, 07:17:39 (270) Something Special Ad

(3) siberianmo Tom Posted: 10 Mar 2006, 07:24:37 (270) PhotoBucket

(4) LoveDomes Lars Posted: 10 Mar 2006, 08:02:34 (270) Lars AM visit!

(5) coalminer3 CM3 Posted: 10 Mar 2006, 08:31:03 (270) CM3 Report!

(6) siberianmo Tom Posted: 10 Mar 2006, 08:43:12 (271) Acknowledgments, etc.

(7) siberianmo Tom Posted: 10 Mar 2006, 10:59:14 (271) Significant Events in Canadian RR History – March

(8) siberianmo Tom Posted: 10 Mar 2006, 11:21:34 (271) Anniversary notice!

(9) BudKarr BK Posted: 10 Mar 2006, 13:01:33 (271) BK Speaks!

(10) coalminer3 CM3 Posted: 10 Mar 2006, 13:54:48 (271) Rare PM visit!

(11) pwolfe Pete Posted: 10 Mar 2006, 14:00:33 (271) Inclusive Post, etc.,

(12) LoveDomes Lars Posted: 10 Mar 2006, 14:33:07 (271) The Lars PM Report!

(13) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 10 Mar 2006, 15:31:57 (271) Daylight Visit!

(14) siberianmo Tom Posted: 10 Mar 2006, 15:37:05 (271) Acknowledgments, etc.

(15) siberianmo Tom posted: 10 Mar 2006, 15:52:23 (271) [navy]NOSTALGIA #72 – Ad: NP (1933)

(16) passengerfan Al Posted: 10 Mar 2006, 18:58:26 (271) 20 Fingers Lives!

(17) siberianmo Tom Posted: 10 Mar 2006, 20:31:41 (271) Acknowledgments, etc.



NOW SHOWING:

The Mentor Village Emporium Theatre
Double Features! Now with The Three Stooges Short Subject!

. . . Sunday, March 5th thru 11th: North to Alaska (1960) starring: John Wayne, Stewart Granger & Capucine – and – Lost in Alaska (1952) starring: Bud Abbott & Lou Costello. Short: A Pain in the Pullman (1936).

Coming Attractions:
Now with The Three Stooges Short Subject!

. . . Sunday, March 12th thru 18th: Mystery Alaska (1999) starring: Russell Crowe, Hank Azaria & Mary McCormack –and- Slap Shot (1977) starring: Paul Newman – Strother Martin & Michael Ontkean. SHORT: Beer and Pretzels (1933).


That’s it! [tup][;)]

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]
Proprietor of “Our” Place, an adult eating & drinking establishment!

[Anonymous]

Good morning Tom and all. I'll have a quick light breakfast (gives me strength to get to the IHOP). Yesterday was unusual for me. I was at work for only a few hours when it occured to me there was really nothing more for me that I had to do ... so I caught the Northwest 9am, train into Chicago! From there, I bought a round-trip on the North line, to Kenosha Wisconsin, as I had never ridden it before. I did "attempt" to get a picture of a Rio Grande Engine along the way (through my window, with a cheapie camera), so we'll see how that went. I did manage to fill one camera with shots around Ogilvie and Union stations, and will drop it off at Walgreens this morning. Don't know if pix will be ready for tomorrow. Oh yeah ... also had a meeting of the Train and Locomotive Historical Society last night. The subject was on the elevation of trains in Chicago, starting in 1892 for the '93 Exposition.

Yeah, that was some pretty bad luck for the 107 Mr. Pete. I've run into a few other hoodoo stories that will eventually be told here. Almost seems more appropriate for "spooky story night" near Halloween.

Enjoyed the Canadian RR History for Marh and NP add Capt. Tom

Have a great day all ...not sure what I'm doing with most of it, myself.

[:I] A carrot crosses the road and is hit by a car. He is rushed to the hospital, where he goes through hours of surgery.
After surgery the doctor comes into the carrot’s room and says “Well, I’ve got good news and bad news.”
The carrot says, “Give me the good news first, doc.”
The doctor says, “The good news is you’re gonna live.”
“And the bad news?” asks the carrot.
“The bad news is your gonna be a vegetable for the rest of your life.“ [:I]

[siberianmo]

Good Evening Gents!

Thanx Cindy, I'm back and will stick around 'til Leon the Night Man arrives at 9 PM (Central}! Quiet up front at the bar, eh[?] But busy enough in the back room for Pizza nite! Good! I see the gals are workin' the tables, and all seems to be hummin' along . . .

Lars & his bride were in, you say[?] And, 20 Fingers Al stopped by as well![tup][tup] Perhaps BK was spot on with that dilusional comment![swg] Whatever it takes, Al we need you in top form to pick up where you left off . . . just remember, READ the SUMMARIES to catch up AND find out what's going on![tup]

Okay - rather than talk to myself, I'll just sit over here by "Tilla" and await the next arrival!

Later![tup]

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]

[passengerfan]

Good Afternoon Tom and the rest of the gang. Time for a 7-up and a round for the house.

Give me a few days to catch up and regain some strength and I should be back to my old self by Monday.

Boss says work is piling up so can’t miss much more Tax season.

Congrats to Lars for his elevation to Permanent Stool status.

Sorry I missed Nicks ba***he other day.

As some of you are aware I tried to put some of this sick time to good use and was working on CN research material that I have to write out for the computer.

I’m not ignoring the group just haven’t recovered enough to think straight with the meds they have me on.

See how I feel tomorrow and will maybe can begin to catch up with a week of “Our Place”

TTFN Al

[siberianmo]

G’day All!

Almost forgot, time for:

PASSENGER TRAIN NOSTALGIA #72

Here’s something to enjoy regarding the Northern Pacific (NP) in a 1933 advertisement from my private collection:

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . Washington . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . and the Pacific Northwest . . . . .

Summer fares to the north Pacific Coast are the lowest ever! Only $77.75 round trip. Chicago to Seattle, Tacoma and Portland: $66.50 to Spokane. Bargains in Pullman rates too!

Let us estimate cost from your home. No charge or obligation to you for our booklets and accurate information.

Address: E. E. Nelson,
. . . . . . . . 152 Northern Pacific Ry.,
. . . . . . . . St. Paul, Minn.

For Travel in the West, the NEW

North Coast Limited


Enjoy! [tup]

Tom [4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

G'day Gents!

First: If you guys are being put back on page 270, that's because Rob is trying to "fix" those PhotoBucket Pix. Editing causes that particular Post to be the one that "directs" people there, instead of the most current. Just a quirk of the Forums ....

Good to see the activity this afternoon. Only have a minute or two . . . so just let me say, "chill" with regard to 20 Fingers! Whatever in the world he's doing, it is rather strange - but it IS his call, eh[?] If he'd rather not be here, what are we gonna do[?] Wudda thunk otherwise, but . . . .

BK 'n Lars you guys are becoming "bookends," of sorts![swg] Nevertheless, good to have the company and always enjoy your thoughts. Mirror my own, most times![swg]

Pete An afternoon submission from you is appreciated too![tup] Lars is correct, Sir. When the "host RR" begins trackwork, Amtrak passengers suffer the consequences. Happens every spring 'n summer for as long as I've lived around here. What they really need is double track all the way - but, then they'd find a way to screw that up as well.[tdn]

Lars You are correct, Sir! My pizza recipe came from "The Ventian Gardens & also Genes" on Richmond Avenue in Port Richmond. Best pizza joints in the nation![swg] Of course, they are long gone (so I've been told . . . ) A very big part of my high school years . . . [tup][swg]

BK Sounds like snuggling up atmosphere to me! Go fer it, Mate - you only live once, so I hear![swg]

CM3 - and anyone else - THANX for the rounds and QUARTERS! Always appreciated as was your PM visit to our humble establishment.[tup]

Oh, oh - Rob You got that Post in, eh[?] Good! Glad to hear all's finished. Now, perhaps you can have a "normal" weekend![tup] Figured that Oh, Canada! Post would "get you!"[swg] Cheers![tup]

Okay, Gents - got some things to attend to later on. So, as much as I hate to do this to ya, Cindy has the bar!!! [}:)][:-,]

I'll be back later on in the evening! Boris ring it! Cindy serve 'em what they want![tup]

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]

[trolleyboy]

Good afternoon Sir Tom,a large long island ice tea I think. The bathroom's done ( as done as it's gonna get )[tup][swg]

Tom Great info on Candain railway history sir [tup][tup][tup]. As BK sadi the flags they are a waving ( who said that we aren't a flag waving lot eh [?] ) [swg] Of interest to some that LRT ine in Scarberia is up for replacement, the thing is with what street cars or a subway or buses. The tech didn't work out as well as they hoped and it's been a bear to maintain, those trains run completely remotly no crew onboard !

BK I'd love to visit you but, no more reno's for me [:-^] took alot out of me and I'm young, the house isn't unfortunatly 100+ with 13' ceilings ( yes in that bath as well ) It really needsa afull reno new drywall etc, this bit is just cosmetic works for now [tup] Do yourself a favour let the pros do it [tup]. Don't know what to say about photobucket, I may just flip all my stuff over to railimages I pay for that account.Hopefully it will be up and going for Sunday for you.

Well folks just a quick one I'll return again later tonight with more comments etc.

Rob

[LoveDomes]

Hey Tom! and Gents at the bar!

A round on me if you please - just put the change in the Lars Box for Monday![tup] Me[?] Oh, I'll take one of those Brit brews that Pete always has, Bathams please - but in a frosty mug rather than a pint glass. Thanks![swg]

BK - CM3 & Pete that's not bad for this time of day, huh[?] Could be worse, given the "history" of some recent Friday afternoons.<ugh> Always good to see the guys come through the doors. Sitting over in the corner yesterday, I got a real charge out of the people passing by. Didn't know so many worked at the lumber yard! Some fine looking, errrrrrrr, stock - if I do say so meself!<grin>

Pete If the "host" railroad announces plans to do trackwork, you can bet on one thing. The passenger trains WILL be late - count on it. Even in this part of the country where Amtrak owns the right-of-way in the northeast corridor - when trackwork begins, the schedule suffers, or better put, the passengers do.[tdn]

One day I'd like to take that round trip that you and Tom travel on. I'm familiar with the territory, but of course not so much as Tom. That must have been quite a route to travel when the MoPac was up and running. Those Eagles were fine trains and what I'd give to sit up in a dome - enjoying the view, my brew, and perhaps a "sweet thing" along side. (Of COURSE I was referring to YOU, sweet thing![swg])
<phew!>

Don't get me going on professional sports. I'm a burn out, big time. The prices to watch these Prima Donna baseball, football, basketball and hockey players is outta sight, plain ridiculous. Yet, the good seats are always sold out, season after season. Guess I just was in the wrong profession. Not really - I'd do it over again - twice!tup]

I'll take another one of those Bathams - nah, keep it in the same mug, goes down just as well![swg]

Tonight is Pizza nite! so me & sweet thing will return - or perhaps I'll just sit here and she can drive on over.[swg] As the kids say, "whateeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeever!" Should be a good time as I love those NY style pies that Tom makes. Got the recipe from a Staten Island Italian Pizza Parlor is my guess. Best pizza there is, in my not-so-humble opinion.

Ok - 'nuf nonsense. I'll just mosey on over to the corner and listen to the tunes. What is it today, oh [yeah] a Hank Jr. song fest! Great stuff - are ya ready for some football[?][swg]

Here's a roll of quarters for your Coal Scuttle - Herr Wurltizer is looking a bit thirsty![tup]

Lars

[pwolfe]

Hi Tom and all.

A pint of Bathams and a round to build the fund for Monday[tup].

DAVE Thanks for the U33C and U25B info. There were quite a few of the Diesel-Electrics loco classes in the U.K that used the Sultzer diesel engine introduced in the late 50s and the early 60s. These were in the 1,100 to 2,500 horse power range and seem quite successful.Although the locos were mainly outlived by the English Electric products. The smaller HP engines had a very distinctive sound.
There is a book in the UK called RED FOR DANGER which listed the major railway accidents from the early days to the late 1950s, and how the Railway Inspectorate and the railways learnt from them and introduced new laws and practices. It was often a hard battle to get the railways to accept new safety rulesin the early days.

ROB.Glad you enjoyed the link to the web-site. The early Irish diesels also were Metro-Vick locos. They were later re-engined with GM equipment.

AL and NICK Hope you are well on the way to feeling better and hope to see you both back at the Bar very soon.[tup].

CM3 Thanks for the U33B info. Hockey was the first sport I saw live in the US back in 2000 a great game but I still don't understand what ICING is[%-)].

DOUG The story of #107 is amazing, how is it one loco has so much bad luck. On BR if a loco is seemed to have a jinx it is renumbered. this has happened twice to my knowledge. I will have to tell you about diesel loco #47299 some time a strange but true tale.

LARS Glad you are able to be here Monday[tup].

TOM Great Canadian RR History for March although it seemed a bad month for accidents. The last Candian steam loco was produced 11 years before the last one was built for BR at Swindon Works but strangely it was produced in the same month March.
Looks like more good films for the Emporium.
I must agree with you about Minor leagues sports. I dont think I ever will go to a English Premier Soccer game but the atmosphere at a lower division and Non-league games is great, not to mention the price the top teams expect you to pay to see them.

I see in the K.C. Star it says that UP are going to do track improvements from later this month until August between Hermann and Kirkwood also Sedalia and Pleasent Hill.It says the effect on the Amtrak St Louis to Kansas City service will be announced soon. PETE.

[coalminer3]

Good Afternoon (surprise) Barkeep and all Assembled; coffee refill, please; round for the house and more $ for the jukebox.

I don't know what was going on with the 'puter this a.m., I do stuff separately for the most part and then drop it in, so I didn't lose anythign, just had to redo it until it departed from here. Gotta love it.

Thanks for the Canadian information.

Have a good weekend all.

wrok safe

[BudKarr]

Hello Captain Tom and all assembled!

A round of cheer for the men at the bar, and something hot for me if you please. Just a "splash" to make it interesting, thank you!

Many interesting, diverse and spread out postings, Captain! Keeping the flow is something you do quite well. Aside from CM3 there does not seem to be very many daytime contributors to the information bank.

Sorry to learn about Sir Nick & Sir Al although I must admit to being a bit perplexed with the latter. He has been 'seen' perhaps three times with postings on one of those rather innane question type gimmicks since his announced illness during Sir Nick's Bash. What do we make of that[?] Delirium, perhaps.[swg]

Sir Rob when you finish up and have everything cleaned up, perhaps you would consider coming up this way. We have an abundance of that type work, with your name all over it![swg] Hardly a holiday, my friend!

Your "Significant Dates" posting is full of history. Of course, I have been running back and forth between search engines in order to clarify this or that point. Many terms have no meaning for me, and my guess is many others. Nevertheless, this is a great educational tool for one and all. Good show![tup] My guess is that Sir Rob will revel in it - waving flags and all.[swg]

So, you have had an afternoon of delight, have you Sir Lars[?] A hair of the dog should straighten you out this morning! Ah, it is afternoon where you are. By now, then, you should be ready for round #2![tup]

As always, Sir Coalminer very good submissiona and something to think about. I look forward to whatever treat you have in store for Captain Tom's next installment of those "Railroads from Yesteryear." Another feature that has taken hold around here.

I like that term, "For what it's worth," and will begin to use it. First installment directed to Lars - concur wholeheartedly with simply doing to those what they have been doing to us. Recognition is indeed a two way street. Although, I have not contributed very much, aside from words that is.

Too bad about Photo Bucket! Now that I finally arranged for a site, it seems to have gone bonkers. I am preparing a "little something" for Sunday Picture Day and hope it goes through. I am a tad slow with the process, but am learning as I go. Best approach to it, I think.

With tomorrow being your Encore Saturday! feature throughout the day, I think I will remain offline. Spending a bit more time at this than I should or need to. The weather up here is rather dismal with snow, temperatures in the 20s (F) and expected to continue throughout the weekend. Fireplace is fired up, supplies stocked well, home entertainment doing just fine (thank you very much!) so the weekend should be wonderful for us![tup]

See you on Sunday.

BK

[siberianmo]

[tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup]


Sunday, March 12th is the 11th Month Anniversary of the introduction of ”Our” Place on the Classic Trains Forum. Why not stop by during our Photo Posting Sunday! to enjoy the Pix and drop off a greeting[?]


Tom[4:-)] [oX)]


[tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup]

[siberianmo]

Significant events in Canadian RR History during the month of March.


*March 1836: The oldest Canadian Pacific component, the St. Andrews & Quebec Railroad Company was authorized by the New Brunswick legislature to construct a rail line from St. Andrews to lower Canada. Operations began in the spring of 1851, fifteen years later.


*19 March 1855: The Niagra Gorge vehicle suspension bridge is re-engineered for the use of railroad trains. The structure was built in 1848 with its wooden trusses replaced by steel in 1880.


* 12 March 1857: Fifty nine lose their lives when a Great Western Railway train plunges into the Desjardins Canal near Hamilton. A broken axle was determined to the cause of the accident.


* 20 March 1896: Central Vermont Railway becomes part of the Grand Trunk Railway. CV corporate identity remains unchanged.


* 1 March 1898: The Intercolonial Railway begins through rail service between Montreal and Halifax. Grand Trunk Railway lease and trackage rights are instrumental in enabling the service to commence.


* 17 March 1909: An out of control train slams into the stop blocks at CPs Montreal’s Windsor Street Station. Six fatalities resulted. The cause was determined to be a broken spring hanger on loco #2102 which caused a lurch and a driving wheel to strike a washout plug. Scalded crew escaped the locomotive. Impact was estimated to be 25 mph thanks to the setting of the train brake by a brakeman.


* 1 March 1916: Fire destroys Montreal’s Grand Trunk Railway Bonaventure Station.


* 7 March 1919: An appointment of the Minister of Railways to be receiver for the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway.


* 8 March 1920: , March 8 - The Canadian Natinal Railways Board of Directors assumes management of the Grand Trunk Pacific.


* March 1949: Montreal Locomotive Works rolls out Canadian Pacific’s its last new steam locomotive Class T-l-c 2-10-4 #5935.


* 15 March 1951: The House of Commons tables the Turgeon Commission’s report on behalf of the The Royal Commission on Transportation.


* 30 March 1954: Canada’s first subway is opened in Toronto by the Toronto Transit Commission.


* March 1961: The MacPherson Commission, on behalf of the Royal Commission on Transportation, publishes its report. The National Transportation Act of 1967 is largely based on their recommendations.


* 17 March 1974: Two CP Rail crew members are killed when a freight train derails at Spences Bridge, BC. A rock slide was the cause. The installation of ditch lights on board Canadian trains resulted.


* 13 March 1978: The first bi-level coaches are introduced by Toronto’s GO.


* 22 March 1985: The Scarborough Rapid Transit Line is opened by the Toronto Transit Commission using linear induction technology.


* 6 March 1990: Vancouver’s Skytrain commences operation on the Expo Line between Columbia & Scott Road.


* 28 March 1994: Vancouver’s Skytrain commences operation on the Expo Line between Scott Road & King George.


* 22 March 1999: Operation is assumed by RaiLink Ltd. of CNs Coronado, Bonnyville, & Lac La Biche subdivisions, NE of Edmonton. The line runs from St. Paul Junction, immediately N of Edmonton, to Boyle and NE to Grande Centre and Elk Point. It also joins with RaiLink's existing Lakeland & Waterways track at Boyle.


Information contained in this compilation was obtained from internet public domain sources and materials from my private RR library collection. The use of this information is strictly for pleasure without intent of monetary reward or profit of any kind.


Enjoy! [tup]

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]

Did you miss the previous two “Significant events in Canadian RR History”[?] Click the URL:

(1) January, page 215:
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=215&TOPIC_ID=35270

(2) February, page 243:
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?page=243&TOPIC_ID=35270



waving flags credit to:www.3DFlags.com

[siberianmo]

Good Morning!

A beautiful, blue sky morning. More rain in the forecast, but right now it’s a glorious start to the day. Juneau was rather sprightly on our trek throughout the subdivision. Fortunately he’s on one of those 25 ft retractable leashes – so he gets to take off and “zoom” as he pleases. Huskies are like that.

A bit o’ news:

nickinwestwales Nick reports that he’s still a bit under the weather, but is definitely on the mend. He said “Thanx” to one and all for making his Birthday Bash! such a rousing success. From the “tone” of the message, I’d say we really “got” to him![tup][tup][tup]

passengerfan Al[ reports that he’s been seriously ill, with temps at or above 103. Now that’s plain dangerous. Anyway. he thinks he’ll be back in shape by Monday. He also said that he did some browsing, but couldn’t concentrate. We all know how THAT goes, eh[?] Happens! Speedy and full recovery, 20 Fingers![tup][tup][tup]


Some acknowledgments and thoughts interspersed:

trolleyboy Rob
Posted: 09 Mar 2006, 23:26:52, 23:35:08 & 10 Mar 2006, 00:41:21

Good to see ya![tup] Looks like your PhotoBucket Pix didn’t make it. May want to resubmit ‘em (edit). Anyway, as my “notice” indicated, this isn’t the first time I’ve noticed this problem. And it’s not with ALL the Pix, just some. Makes me wonder.

Don’t know what to say regarding the “confused” Posts we’ve been getting from our left coast investigator lately. But, I’ve simply had it . . . no more from me, at least until things get back to even keel.


When it comes to the engineering phase of this or that, I surely must yield to those who “know.” All I can say is that German Engineering has quite a healthy respect. That wheel design, in retrospect, does make one wonder . . . However, I’m a novice and hate to jump in with anything that even resembles anecdotal info. I tend to form my opinions based around fact, or at least information that I’ve checked out and believe to be plausible.


LoveDomes Lars
Posted: 10 Mar 2006, 08:02:34

Yes, it IS indeed a surprise to see ya ‘round here so early – but welcome![tup] Judging by the amount of “empties” you left on the table, I’d say you had quite an afternoon for yourself yesterday![swg] However, you DID NOT empty the “stash” of Keiths – lots more where those came from![swg]

Good news about Monday. You’re in a good position – we’ll be celebrating for you and Doug on Monday – then all kinds of well wishes on the 31st, your “real” Natal Day! Win-win, for you, Mate![tup]

coalminer3 CM3
Posted: 10 Mar 2006, 08:31:03

I’m one step ahead of you with the “opening day” baseball movies. Already picked out a double feature . . . however, I’ll add your titles to the ‘stack’ – it’s a loooooooooong season![swg] Thanx![tup]

I suspect that Southern will shake loose a few guys with some Posts, especially 20 Fingers![swg] Looking forward to it all.[tup]

My suggestion to you and anyone else Posting on these Forums – hope you are preparing on a WP program. At least all isn’t lost if the Post winds up in the far reaches of the Ether![swg]

Back to the movies: Slap Shot is one of those “classics,” and we watch it quite often in this haus! Slap Shot II is on the “list,” but not right now. It too is a “goodie,” just don’t want to make comparisons – that’s the way it seems to be with sequels, eh[?] I think “II” can stand on its own, given the number of years between the two flicks. I used to watch minor league hockey quite a bit while stationed and living in Tidewater, VA (Portsmouth – Norfolk – VA Beach – Chesapeake) back in the mid-70s. The “Tidewater Tides,” of the old “Southern Hockey League.”[yeah] Some really good games, lots of fun and most times the arena (Norfolk’s Scope) had a good crowd – 5 to 7 thousand. Big rivals back then were the “Hampton Gulls,” the hated “Gulls,” with lots and lots of “on and off ice extra-curricular” activity![swg] Around here, we have the “Missouri Otters,” of the “United Hockey League.” Rather tame in comparison with the “old” days, but still more fun (in my opinion) than the NHL. Minor leaguers are “hungry,” and that’s good for the sport, eh[?][tup]

Thanx for the round AND quarters![tup]


Okay, boyz, I’ll be here for the day!

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]


Stick around a few minutes AFTER POSTING - The information you MISS may be for YOU!

Those who acknowledge the other guy, get acknowledged!

[coalminer3]

Good Morning Barkeep and All Present; coffee, please; round for the hosue and $ for the jukebox.

This is my third try at posting this as the squirrels seem to be in the forum this morning, or maybe Boris is not running on his exercise wheel to keep the voltage at the proper level. I never have been able to figure out why when the beer coolers at the bar kick in, the trolley dies downtown.

I appreciated the information on the ICE trains - especially the maps, route information, etc.

The movie offering, 'Slap Shot," is a good one; Mike Ontken played hockey for UNH and I tutored him and some of his brehren back in the day; did what it took to keep the starters eligible to play. Man, there are some stories there which as our 'steamed proprieotr syas are for "another place and another time." Anyway, some of the fight scenes in "Slap Shot" are reminiscent of the days when Nashville had a team in the old Eastern League. The players would go up in the stands and fight with the fans when they got bored with beating the !@#$ out of each other -

We need to start thinking abt. a baseball feature for the movie house for opening day. How about Whose On First?" and for the main film, "Long Gone." This was a real sleeper that never got much play anywhere. I could really identify with some of the stuff that went on in the movie, but again "''nother place, 'nother time." Suffice it to say, who couldn't root for a team called the "Tampico Stogies?"

The interior Zephyr shot was interesting; art deco/transport moderne - looked like the Chrysler building on wheels.

Let's look under the hood of the U33 for a little bit. GE produced a U33B and a U33C. Both FDL 16 powered; 3300 horsepower. They sold approx 137 U33Bs - all domestically, and approx. 375 U33Cs - again all domestically. The U33B was available from 1967 to 1970 and the U 33C available from 1968 to 1975.

The Sulzer engine remarks kicked something forward from the deep recesses of what's left of my memory. In 1936 GE built for the Illinois Central a transfer locomotive powered by a 10-cylinder Busch-Sulzer engine; it was a one-of-a-kind unit. I know there's a photo of it somewhere.

I see where we are doing the Southern next week; I have already gathered some material to share, including information relating to the Central of Georgia which was certainly part of the family. I always got a charge of seeing Southern units at Elmore, WV in the old VGN yards. Whoda thunk of seeing AGS or CNO&TP units in southern WV - of course, there were more than a few NKP units in the mix as well. When the SOU relettered their e units for the Crescent, I got some pictures of them at Ivy City sitting with Amtrak SDP40s and GG1s still in PRR livery.

well, better see if this works this time.

work safe

[LoveDomes]

Good Morning Tom and Gents at the bar!

Two successive days of a morning visit! No, it's not going to be my routine.[swg] However, just wanted you and whoever may be interested, that I will be here on Monday. Issue resolved.[tup] Let the Birthday Bash! planning continue!![tup]

That's disturbing news regarding Photo Bucket. I had noticed, from time to time, that some pix were not being displayed and were replaced by a Photo Bucket "blurb." Wondered what that was all about. Kind of bothers me, but then again, it's free - and as they say, one gets what one pays for![swg] Ooooooops, YOU are paying[?] Sorry, 'bout that! And you have quite a bunch of stuff with them, huh[?]

Ok, I'm going to have some breakfast - a traditional breakfast if you please. Number 3 from the menu board, over easy with the eggs, will do. Buy the guys some OJ on me, ok[?][swg]

Looking forward to your "surprise!"[tup]


Until the next time!

Lars

[siberianmo]

For anyone using PhotoBucket . . . .

You may wi***o check your Posts where Pix have been included. PhotoBucket has been less than dependable lately, as many Pix are not being displayed.

Suggest you send them an Email inquiry. I have, twice, with no response. (And mine is a paid subscription!!) I'm thinking serioiusly of returning to RailImages - not quite as "user friendly," but much more reliable.

For what it's worth . . . [tup]

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]

[siberianmo]

[tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup]


SOMETHING SPECIAL WILL BE POSTED

THIS MORNING – WATCH FOR IT!


Tom[4:-)] [oX)]


[tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup][tup]

[siberianmo]

We open at 6 AM (all times zones!). (Don’t ask how we do that!)[swg]


FRIDAY’s INFO & SUMMARY of POSTS


Good Friday Morning! Start the day with a cup of freshly brewed coffee, some pastries from The Mentor Village Bakery and a selection from our Menu Board for a <light> or <traditional> breakfast![tup]


Repeat: Birthday Bash! scheduled for Monday, March 13th at 2 PM (Central) Combined party for barndad Doug ‘n LoveDomes Lars


Repeat: If anyone would like to “host” a St. Patrick’s Day Party! March 17th, let me know! The time is up to whoever “hosts” it. I’m not sure that I’ll be available. NO takers, no party.


Daily Wisdom

If you don’t set goals, you can’t regret not reaching them.”[swg]
(yogi-ism)


Info for the Day:

Railroads from Yesteryear: Southern Railway (SOU) arrives next Tuesday! This will be the THEME for the DAY!

* Weekly Calendar:

TODAY: Pizza Nite! & Steak ‘n Fries Nite!
Saturday: Steak ‘n Trimmin’s Nite! – and –
ENCORE! Saturday


SUMMARY

Name …..…………… Date/Time …..…..………. (Page#) .. Remarks

(1) nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 09 Mar 2006, 03:53:04 (269) Pike Perspective’s, etc.

(2) siberianmo Tom Posted: 09 Mar 2006, 05:26:52 (269) Thursday’s Info & Summary

(3) siberianmo Tom Posted: 09 Mar 2006, 05:32:54 (269) Rwys of Europe announcement!

(4) barndad Doug Posted: 09 Mar 2006, 05:35:12 (269) AM visit & Burlington Zephyrs, Part I

(5) siberianmo Tom Posted: 09 Mar 2006, 09:24:57 (269) Acknowledgments, etc.

(6) coalminer3 CM3 Posted: 09 Mar 2006, 09:30:58 (269) CM3 AM visit, N&W, etc.

(7) LoveDomes Lars Posted: 09 Mar 2006, 10:17:15 (269) The AM Lars Report!

(8) siberianmo Tom Posted: 09 Mar 2006, 11:01:47 (270) RRs of Europe – ICE Train of Germany

(9) BudKarr BK Posted: 09 Mar 2006, 13:51:48 (270 BK Report & Pix![tup]

(10) BudKarr BK Posted: 09 Mar 2006, 13:57:22 (270) P.S. from BK

(11) LoveDomes Lars Posted: 09 Mar 2006, 15:00:58 (270) The Lars Report!

(12) siberianmo Tom Posted: 09 Mar 2006, 16:47:03 (270) Acknowledgments, etc.

(13) pwolfe Pete Posted: 09 Mar 2006, 16:58:51 (270) Pete’s PM Post!

(14) West Coast S Dave Posted: 09 Mar 2006, 18:22:43 (270) PM Post, SP’s GE U33C!

(15) siberianmo Tom Posted: 09 Mar 2006, 19:04:25 (270) Acknowledgments, etc.

(16) West Coast S Dave Posted: 09 Mar 2006, 19:32:32 (270) Motive power

(17) barndad Doug Posted: 09 Mar 2006, 19:53:39 (270) Burlington Zephyr, Part II & Joke

(18) siberianmo Tom Posted: 09 Mar 2006, 21:16:06 (270) Nite!

(19) siberianmo Tom Posted: 09 Mar 2006, 21:21:10 (270) B’day Watch List

(20) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 09 Mar 2006, 23:26:52 (270) Inclusive Post, etc.

(21) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 09 Mar 2006, 23:35:08 (270) More!

(22) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 10 Mar 2006, 00:41:21 (270) and, more!



NOW SHOWING:

The Mentor Village Emporium Theatre
Double Features! Now with The Three Stooges Short Subject!

. . . Sunday, March 5th thru 11th: North to Alaska (1960) starring: John Wayne, Stewart Granger & Capucine – and – Lost in Alaska (1952) starring: Bud Abbott & Lou Costello. Short: A Pain in the Pullman (1936).

Coming Attractions:
Now with The Three Stooges Short Subject!

. . . Sunday, March 12th thru 18th: Mystery Alaska (1999) starring: Russell Crowe, Hank Azaria & Mary McCormack –and- Slap Shot (1977) starring: Paul Newman – Strother Martin & Michael Ontkean. SHORT: Beer and Pretzels (1933).


That’s it! [tup][;)]

Tom [4:-)] [oX)]
Proprietor of “Our” Place, an adult eating & drinking establishment!

[trolleyboy]

Good evening again.too much coffe or too much breathing of paint fumes but I'm still awake.[B)][:(] I notice that quite a bit of the useless fluff posting is happening on our forum again tonight [tdn][:(!] , hopefully no one will feed them < won't hold my breath >Anyway another Classic ad for you folks, this one is a 1941 CNR / GTR ad espousing their joint passenger train operations / services . Enjoy Rob

CLASSIC AD'S # 6 CNR / GTR PASSENGER SERVICE

[trolleyboy]

Good evening still.

Tom Thanks for the understanding as tomwhy I'm post so little so late. On the upside the work is done accept for some new quarterround to be installed to finish up the trim.[:D] It has been time consuming , but it looks a whole lot better.

Here's another installment from my small collection of Ad's.

CLASSIC AD'S # 5 SUPERCONTINENTAL

This is a fairly common print ad from the 50's, highlighting CNR's at the time new Super Continental Passenger train

enjoy Rob

[trolleyboy]

Good evening Leon, I'll have a Keith's if Lars left any that is[:D][;)] oh and a round for those left standing as well,we've got to keep Tilla and Cash happy donchaknow[:D]

Tom Great info on the ICE trains today,keeps some flow going around here. I remember that horrible crash back in 1998 as well,was all over our local news for days as well.Those two part wheels were designed by Siemens for their streetcars,guess somebody thought that they would be cheaper,than to use properly designed wheels for the train.[:(] I know that vibration and passenger comfort were two of the reasons why the 2 part wheel was originally installed, but good lord someone should have put their foot down and insisted on the proper wheels to satrt with.Give the riders credit though, once the trains were back in service the passengers flocked back to them,one wonders if a similar thing happened over here if that would be the case.



I'm glad that the index was of some use for you,not to worry i shall continue to post it occationally as new info gets added to it.

Doug Nice info on the Zephers, the jokes not so good[:0][tdn] We may have gotten our first negative reading on the groanameter, Boris hit make sure the guage is not stuck ! Keep the storeis comming though they have all been interesting reads.

BK Great pictures sir [tup] Don't sweat the post timing of them either, they are right on target for Tom's topic of the day.I'm glad to see you on the Bucket [tup] I'm sure that we will see many new pictures from you in the comming sunday's [^] Thank your better half for that website as well, a keeper for sure. [tup]

Lars Hey glad that you're enjoying the Keith's. You are right though they would be better served real and in person while travelling at high speed < insert laugh track here > along the VIA lines in all Budd, dome car encrusted trains.[tup][:p]

Dave Somewhat confusing day eh [?] Great info on the U boats though [tup] I've always liked the U line of locomotives from GE, haven't liked anything since mind you,give me a decent Alco anyday, but I digress. Have you picked up a copy of Greg Macdonnels Uboats book, great info and pictures ther as well[:D][^]

Pete Thanks for that website, they were an oddity weren't they. There have been many an oddball diesel built over here as well. Some with as successfull a run as those ones. The BL2 jumds to mind.The original ugly duckling, not truly a cab unit not truly a hood unit, a mis match of both,railfans loved them , railroaders hated them.

CM3 Goodday to you sir. Great info on the NW passenger trains, with Al out indefinatly [?] it's good to see that some passenger trains are still making it into the mix. [tup] I'm thinking that if Tom uses the NW as next tuesday's theme that you will have reams of info to share [tup]

Leon anothetr Kieths if you will, I seem to have Nicks bottle with the hole in it.[:p][;)]

Rob

[siberianmo]

[bday] 2006 BIRTHDAY WATCH LIST [bday]
(rev. Mar 9th):

March 5th (Nick – 46)
March 13th (Doug – 50) NEXT UP on Monday, Mar 13th!! at 2 PM (Central)
March 31st (Lars – 66) NEXT UP – combined “Bash” w/Doug
April 18th (Al - 64)
May 18th (Tom - 68)
May 27th (Dave - 47)
July 30th (Russell – 35)
August 11th (Pete – 55
August 16th (Ted – 68)
September 8th (Rob - 35)
October 18th (BK – 66)
December 29th (CM3 – 60)


Not on the list [?] Send me an Email with your birth date (month-day-year). Corrections too!


Tom (Siberianmo) [4:-)] [oX)]
Proprietor of “Our” Place, an adult eating & drinking establishment!



NOTE for all: Check the SUMMARIES!

[siberianmo]

Evening Gents!

Doug Another visit, eh[?][tup] Another joke![tdn][swg] Actually, I should mention that Awk enjoyed it!<grin>

Dave I haven't the foggiest what in the world to make of your comments these days (daze). Somewhere along the line it appears you've dropped off the train. Sorry, but that's it from me. Adios!

Leon the Night Man now has the bar!

Boris RIng the bell and Leon set 'em up![tup]

Catch y'all in the AM . . . .

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Anonymous]

Good evening Tom and friends! I'll have my usual bottomless draught please, and allow me to buy a round for the faithful. Interesting series on the "ICE" capt. Tom and it was also great to see pix from BK! [CM3] had a nice N&W article, and Dave typed up two fine segments on SP motive power! I'd say we have a lot of good information fying around the bar today [tup]

Oh yeah, Pete, the word that got bleeped from my joke was ***

(heh heh) ... here's part II fo my Zephyr article:

The Burlington Zephyrs – March 1937 Railroad Stories

The second trailing car of the Denver Zephyrs and the first one of the Twin Zephyrs are fitted up with this cocktail lounge.


The three-car Twin Zephyrs which were inaugurated between Chicago and the Twin Cities on April 21, 1935, are now operating elsewhere. One is known as the Sam Houston Zephyr, and makes a daily round trip of 566 miles between Fort Worth, Dallas and Houston, Texas, at an average speed of 57 miles an hour. The other is the Ozark State Zephyr, running from St. Louis to Kansas City and back, 558 miles, also at an average speed of 57 miles an hour. Both weigh 112 ½ tons, use a 660-horsepower Diesel engine.

To take their place the Burlington operates two new seven-car Twin Zephyrs, each of which makes a daily 882-mile round trip between Chicago and Minneapolis at an average speed of 66.3 miles an hour. Weighing about 330 tons apiece and powered by 1800-horsepower Diesel engines, they have 170 saleable seats. They provide the last word in day train luxury, with coaches that are equal of the parlor cars of yore in comfort and superior in looks, a cocktail lounge, and unbelievably beautiful dining car, and an inter-car telephone system to make diner inter-car phone to reserve diner seats.
The largest, longest and most complete Zephyrs are two twelve-car trains recently put in service between Chicago and Denver. Westbound they cove 1034 miles in 16 hours flat, and eastbound, 1039 miles in 15 hours and 40 minutes. Their two motive power cars contain an 1800 and a 1200-horsepower Diesel unit; and each entire train weighs 628 ½ tons.

These larger Zephyrs, incidentally, will probably show about the same operating costs as a comparable steam train; and because of their high purchase price and maintenance may well be more expensive in the long run. But they travel long distances without stopping for water, and that means greater average speeds.


Hmmm ...... that wasn't long enough to make-up for 20-fingers not being here soooooooo

Hoodoo Engine by E.C. Huffsmith – June 1936 Railroad Stories



Number 107 was scrapped nearly 28 years ago, but even today the old-timers talk about her. They call her the hoodoo, the killer, the deadliest engine on the old Denver & Rio Grande. No more, thank God, does she travel the winding road through Gunnison Canyon, the walls of which echoed time and again with the shriek of her whistle and the clang of her bell. No longer does Death sit at her throttle, as he did, guiding at least a dozen members of her train and engine crews and scores of passengers into Eternity. No longer do rails shudder at the prospect of taking out the hoodoo on a dangerous run.

Even at the start the 107 was ill-fated. The clang of her bell was the tolling of a funeral knell. No. 107 was one of three narrow-gage, anthracite-burning engines that were ordered for the Rio Grande in the late eighties. She was the first put into service on the run between Grand Junction and Gunnison, Colo. G.A. Lathrop, the Gunnison story writer, remembers her. So does his father, Lewis R. Lathrop, who was in D.&R.G. engine service more than half a century.

The first hogger to take her out on an unlucky trip was Bill Duncan. They left Grand Junction at night and were well on the way to Gunnison when an accident occurred. It was pitch dark. They failed to see that part of a bridge had been washed away. Both men perished, together with nobody knows how many passengers.

The engine was salvaged. Some of the enginemen hesitated to take her out again, but this fear was laid to pure superstition, and Engineer Godfrey was not afraid. It was a beautiful starlit evening. Godfrey’s friends said later he had a premonition of impending disaster. Between Escalante and Dominguez a huge boulder rolled across the track, right in the 107’s path! The collision was terrible. It killed Godfrey, his fireman, and several passengers.

After that, even the non-superstitious rails fought shy of the 107. The feeling that she was a hoodoo grew alarmingly. But there was always somebody willing to try again. Engineer Bratt took her out on a clear, cold, wintry night less than three months afterward, on the same run. Between Sapinero and Curecanti, in the canyon of the Gunnison, she encountered a heavy snow-slide. The engine turned turtle. As usual, both engineer and fireman were killed. It was thought, but never definitely proved, that some passengers perished also.

When the 107 was hauled back into yards at Grand Junction, men looked upon her scarred sides with horror. Local call boys experienced much difficulty in finding crews for her, so the 107 was transferred to a western run, between Salt Lake City and Ogden. At least three accidents occurred while she was in service there.

By this time her reputation as a killer had spread over the entire railroad; most of the men in engine service refused to touch the 107. Again she was transferred, this time to the run out of Alamosa, where she added several more engineers and firemen to her growing death list.

Finally, the men positively rebelled at taking out the dread 107, so in 1908 the D.&R.G. officials were obliged to scrap her. Gingerly she was taken to Burnham station, and to the boneyard. Even there the rails gave her a wide berth at night, and many were the tales told of grim spectral figures seated in her dilapidated cab or hovering over the last resting-place of dead engines.

Yes, sir, the 107 was a hoodoo if ever there was one. It is hard to find another that can beat her grim record.

[:I] A man follows a woman with a parrot out of a movie theater. He stops her and says, "I'm sorry to bother you, but I couldn't help but notice that your bird seemed to understand the movie. He cried at the right spots, he was fidgeting in his seat during the boring parts and he laughed at jokes. Don't you find that unusual?"
"I do indeed," she answered. "He hated the book." [:I]

[West Coast S]

Tom, As I posted where is I? Great job Tom just the same. Glad you enjoyed the GE history.

SP had far more admiration for the U25B to the point of possible inclusion into the GRIP program (General rehabilatation and improvement) Sacramento and Roseville remanfactured thousands of Geeps of all breeds and age and the SD7 and 9 fleet over a fifteen year period , such units served until UP takeover and serve yet for new owners. Sadly ,they chose to outsource the U25B upgrades to Morrison Knudson which installed Swiss built Sultzer power plants under a revised long hood, only four were so converted and they emerged in revised Daylight colors to a rousing discord among SP officials who considered the Sultzer power plants complete junk.

First runs proved that the Sultzer was incapable of the demands required of American railroads, they never did enter regular service and no others were so converted. SP was in good company, neither Santa Fe or Union Pacific had any better luck with the Sultzer and soon they vanished as well.

SP had the foresite to draft a refusal clause, leaving MK stuck with the units, MK in turn stuck GE with the units, they were worthless in the resell market and GE tucked them away at it's Oakland plant until a decision as to their future could be reached. They remain there to this day, UP pulled the plant tracks several years ago, marooning the units, GE wants them off the property but is unwilling to pay UP to reinstall the connection.

Three of the four are considered beyond salvation as GE stripped them to the bone, theives have removed the wiring and lit fires in the cabs and weather has also been at work, the fourth my have a brighter future as attempts are being made to move this almost intact unit off the property for restoration and preservation. Time will tell if those involved are sucessfull or will this unique adventure and failure be forgotten.

Dave

[siberianmo]

Good Evening Gents!

Well, it appears that Lars has departed. I think the man enjoyed Keiths![swg]

A couple of more customers a few more "rings" for Tilla the Hun 'n The Cashinator![swg] Good to see ya, Pete 'n Dave!

It does seem like just the other day when ICE suffered that terrible tragedy. The "things" that can happen usually do, just a matter of time.

I would hope that Eurostar from GB to Germany will be a reality. Why not[?] In this era of the Euro Union, etc., it makes pure sense to me. Trains to cities within 300 or so miles from one another is much more practical than using aircraft. Seems that Europe is way ahead of North America in that regard.

Dave Mine was "tongue in cheek" moreso than anything else. Last trip to Barstow was back in '88, as in 1988 as opposed to 1888![swg]

Don't know what you've been seeing on these pages, but Al has been AWOL for some time. Last we heard he was under the weather - but then resurfaced elsewhere. I've seen him doing the "Phantom Browse," but that's bee it .... Once again, you've confused the Proprietor.

The information on the GE U33Cs should "flick" a switch or two 'round here.[tup] Always liked the "U boats" but really never got into the motive power aspect of any loco. Shows my shallowness, eh[?]

Thanx for the rounds, Gents! We're building up a "stash" for the Birthday Bash! this Monday!

Later![tup]

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]

[West Coast S]

Afternoon Tom and all.. Round of the usual...JB on the rocks

Tom, you've not been to Barstow in a while have you? you would not recgonize it with all the urban sprawl, still should be on some countries targeting list just the same(LOL).

Quiz?? 9:00PM last night? Sorry, I was asleep in my Lazy Boy by that hour. Where am I?

Pwolf..I too recall that wreck, i've seen site photos of the end results, taken by the first responders and post crash investigators as part of a accident investigation course I had to complete. The knowlege gained from the post crash investigation enabled Amtrak to detect wheel cracks on the new Accela's before history could repeat itself .

I see that Al and Tom are maintaing the standrd of par excellence passenger coverage, what I wouldn't give to return to the days of the Heavyweight Pullman!! The new technology just doesn't push my buttons, I perfer to olgle something more attractive then my refrigerator!!! As they say, "To each there own".

Ok about time for a SP motive power review to liven Thursday up a bit .

The rise and fall of the General Electirc U33C on the Southern Pacific .

As EMD gained market shares with the SD45, GE was left wanting and smarting that SP had shifted loyalty, a loyality that dated back to the Alco PA's and U25B. SP shunned all current GE offerings in it's desire to carry out it's longer, heavier, fewer units per train concept. and the SD45 was THAT engine to the tune that SP ammased three hundred and twenty four of them in various configurations.

As great as the SD45 was, there were some shortcomings, shortcomings GE intended to exploit to their advantage. The 45 was a thristy beast, overheating was experienced in snowsheds and tunnels, sometimes the flaired radiators would come into contact with tunnel walls, rendering a unit inoperable. GE Designed the U33C to avoid these problems. Weight, horsepower and tractive effort were the equivelent to the 45, the four cycle FDL prime mover proimised decent fuel consumption and the radiator intake was located near the walkway to draw unspolied air when used in tunnels and snowsheds.
SP took a trial set and indeed they did well in fuel consumption, the large capacity traction motors were most appreciated and maintaince cycles were similar to the 45, however, SP had doubts as to the durability and longtivity of the prime mover, but with credit incentives equaling a 3-1 replacement value, agreed to two hundered and twelve units against the wishes of the mechanical department.

The mechanical departments mis-givens were bourne out soon after they entered service, they did not take well to the Donner and Shasta route, such severe service caused pistons and cranks to fail, and oil control issues. SP could not afford surprises on these demanding grades and profiles. SP blamed GE for a defective design, GE blamed SP for improperly using the locomotives. After tempers had cooled a bit, GE agreed to study the problem, this infuraited SP to the point that it would be over a decade before another GE would be placed.

Immediently they were banished to the Sunset route, it became common for dispatchers and train crews to refuse the U33C's units if they ventured north of Sacramento. The tough shasta and Donners routes would be ruled by the products of EMD. After cycling through the shops, they perfomed within bare acceptable performance margins out of Colton, joining other members of the GE oddball fleet. Maintaince cost became excessive after only a couple of years, the prime mover issues were never fully resolved , thus they became prime targets for storage during business slowdowns , victims of being marginal performers as SP considered all GE products by the early seventies.

Very rarely would they be awakened from their slumber as the seventies rolled by, stored in Oakland at first and then moved in mass to the "Bull Ring " in Los Angeles's Taylor Yard , the units were at the mercy of vandals and the elements all but forgotten. Someone once again took notice of them in the late seventies, perhaps there was a way to make them perform using technology not availble when built, in the end this idea too was abandoned as too expensive and time consuming, the units once again returned to the storage lines, the U33C was stricken from the SP roster along with all early U boats by the mid eighties as trade in for newer EMD products.

Dave

[pwolfe]

Hi Tom and all.

A pint of the usual and a round for whoevers in please. Of course Fish and Chips later
( see note to Nick)

ROB I have found an excellent web-site on the CO-BO diesels. As the diesels were phased out at about the same time as steam was finishing on BR and the class had been banished to the North West of England which was the last area for steam they were a bit ignored. Fortunately one was kept for various uses ( like stationary train heating) and is being restored.
On the site at the bottom of the first page you can get an article from The Railway Magazine when the locos were new. The site is great for anyone interested in an odd diesel classes. It is
http://www.wheaty.co.uk/D5705/

NICK I hope you can shake off the dreaded lurgi. H&H's Fish 'n' Chips are not a patch on yours but dont tell them I said that.[:-^].

DOUG Thanks for the Zephyr article. The writing was on the wall for steam when the diesel-electrics got established. By the way what was the word in the article that got bleeped out[?].

CM3 thanks for the N&W info[tup].

LARS I felt the same when I was honoured with the Reserved Stool this really is a special place[^][tup].

TOM Another great Railways of Europe [tup][tup][tup], and thanks BK for the photos I really like the one with the different loco front ends[tup].

The ICE are impressive trains it must have taken a lot of work to get the existing lines up to standard for them. The Magnetic brakes must sure be powerful to effect the lineside equipment[wow]. I wonder if they effected anyones watches on the train.[?].

The mention of the de-railment in 1998 just shows how time flies by it dosen't seem 8 years ago, of course it was the head-line news on the BBC at the time. It is so unfortunate that the wheel failed so near a bridge.
I wonder if the new line opening in 2007 will allow Eurostars to run a direct service from England to Germany through the Channel Tunnel[?].

Yes Tom I feel fortunate I was able to grow up in a time when the traditional values were still in place. I think the train sets over here were a lot more advanced at the time with smoke sounds etc. than the ones we had but they were all wonderful [^] PETE.

[siberianmo]

G'day!

Hey, I see you over there, Lars! Hang in there, we've got plenty more where that Keiths came from![swg]

Good to see you and BK come through the doors this fine day. Would've otherwise been a dull Thrusday. Looks as if the Fish 'n Chips is going to be somewhat of a problem for our typical 5 PM [dinner] seatring. How many portions can you handle, Lars[?][swg]

Nice work with the Pix, Bk and don't sweat the small stuff! The "policy" is to keep Pix for our Sunday Photo Posting Day!, with the exception of one or two "here or there." Good supplement to the Euro RRs!! [tup][tup]

Okay, Gents, I'm going to resume my "neutral" stance until we get some "action" around here.[swg]

Later![tup]

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]