"OUR" PLACE - SEE NEW THREAD!

[siberianmo]

G'day Dave

Ask and ye shall receive! [tup] Thanx for the skinny on those Electrics of the Left Coast! Just the mention of the Maritime Commission conjurs up many thoughts for me.

My Dad was a Merchie before, during and after WWII. Got his officer training from the Coast Guard at Ft. Trumbull, CT and was sent off to convoy duty in the North Atlantic, post haste. There's lots to tell .... but perhaps better for another time and place.

One thing though that perhaps I've mentioned earlier in these threads is: In 1947 or 48 - I honestly cannot recall the exact year - I travelled with him aboard one of his freighters from Baltimore, MD to Long Beach, CA - thru the Panana Canal. What an adventure, as you may well imagine. He was either 1st or 2nd Mate at the time. I had run of the ship and really was treated like a guest of honor. The guys - Pirates all - were fantastic and as I grew into manhood, appreciated the experience all the more.

Anyway, afer a day or two in Long Beach, I was put aboard a train bound for Chicago. I know it was Santa Fe and my guess is it was one of the Chiefs. Once again, I was looked after by what seemed to be virtually everyone connected with that train. Had a roomette, I believe - and pretty much run of the train too. Another great memory. In Chicago there was a change of trains - don't recall how long it took, but I seem to remember it was rather long. The Pennsy took me to NYC and Pennsylvania Station where my Mom met me. It could have been the Broadway Limited - but then again, there's no keen recollection on those kinds of details. Just the train trip itself - being glued to the windows with the passing scenes zipping by ........ Ahhhhhhhh, [yeah]! [tup]

A bit of personal irony - when I received word of his death in 1997, I was assigned to duty in Long Beach, CA.

Catch ya later and enjoy your lunch 'n brew. Appreciate the drinks all around too! [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[West Coast S]

Afternoon Tom and the gang...Roast beef on Rye with some home fries and cold draft please...

Tom, there is a connection between the Northern Electric and PE, upon abandoment of the Northern Electric around 1940 several of the newer steel cars were purchased by the Key system, which operated in the East Bay area.

Key System ceased operations in 1942 whereupon the motley collection of equiptment obtained from numerous bankrupt systems was either scrapped for the war effort or
purchased by the US Maritime Comission. The best of the lot, all former Key, NWP and NE were transfered to Long Beach/San Pedro and assigned the task of ferrying hundreds of thousands of shipyard workers and military personal. The US Maritime Commision retained ownership and each car displayed that owners name. PE offered to shop these war babies in the Torrance Shops when they could be spared from service , sometimes, new paint was the only work performed.

Despite clearance issues caused by introducing 60-73 foot interurbans where none operated before , PE was astute enough to realize that larger cars could reduce operating cost by increasing passenger capacity and permit retirement of obselote equiptment forced to linger on due to war demands. PE purchased the entire lot from the Maritime Commision in 1946.

Having operated and maintained them on the behalf of the Maritime Comission, PE was quite familiar with their oddities, once again they were sent through the Torrance Shops where equiptment such as duel voltage convertors , third rail shoes, gates, pilots were removed, standard PE appliances were applied all were brought to high reliability standards, a necessary modification was to modify drawbars and couplers so they could operate anywhere on the system without stringing trailing cars. Due to the low amperage draw required of the motors and rugged generator design the refurbished cars were known as "Hot Rods", they could obtain speeds of 75mph without any strain.

So, Tom there is a connection, but what a journey!

Trolley Boy, Very little, if any, PE right-of way has been restored for light rail, ownership of the former r-o-w was conveyed to indvidule citys with jogging paths/parks the chosen reuse or wiped out by unchecked urban sprawl or freeway construction. Politicians and the general public have no concept or interest in historic preservation here in So.Cal. Case in point: It took a bitter twelve year legal fight with the Union Pacific and the city of Bellflower to save what could be the last intact wooden PE station from falling victim to a street widing project.

If one looks close, quite a bit still awaits rediscovery.

At the intersection of La Brea and Santa Monica Blvd. in Hollywood, pavement imbeded rails, faintly visible still exist, a reminder that this was once the Santa Monica Airline to Venice and Marina Delray, two million dollar condos now occupy a portion of the former route .. As LA county and city seek state and federal funds to undertake repairing a failing infastructure, long buried PE rails will once again see daylight, very few were removed from city streets, policy was to simply pave over them.

Wow, didn't intend to profer a noval from a few simple questions. Boris, ring that bell [^]

Dave [tup]

[siberianmo]

G'day Al

Some weeks back, we weened off that water back in hopes that it would get you back on line ..... nothing wrong with Crown Royal, mind you! Now, it seems that somethng's amiss. Not a mention of some of the Posts that have contained some rather nice things about YOU!! Hmmmmmmmmmm - that book of yours needs to be put aside, my friend. Get your liberty card and go have some fun! [yeah]

As always, I'm sure your detailed accounting will not go unnoticed 'round here ..... [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[passengerfan]

Good Morning Tom. Just Time for a quick CR and a round for the house. I found the list I mentioned the other night about the Santa Fe Streamlined 6-6-4 sleepers painted in shadowline the only VALLEY series painted in that scheme were CIMARRON VALLEY, PECOS VALLEY, RIO GRANDE VALLEY, SURPRISE VALLEY, TESUQUE VALLEY and VERDE VALLEY. All others in that series were painted the two tone grey for most of their service lives. Santa Fe lists five heavyweights with shadowline striping 1368 a Bar lounge 1451 and 1453 Diners and 1531 and 1537 Bar Lounge Dormitory cars. Got the information from Santa Fe Historical Society
Must run for now.

[siberianmo]

POST FROM THE PAST

Every now 'n then, when things are slow 'round here, I'll check back thru the Posts to find one that exemplifies the kinds of things we enjoy in conversation. Here's one from Page 4:

QUOTE: West Coast S Posted: 21 Apr 2005, 19:02:47

Joined: 23 Feb 2005
Location: Los Angeles

Good afternoon all, Dave from the left Coast checking in... Tom, I wi***hat was the only time I faced dad over my antics..Too much good RR action in the 70s I guess.

This one almost got me exiled.

I just got my DL, but dad said no way to a car, gotta get a job and earn one, blah,blah,blah. It so happens that he also had just purchased a new truck the same week.

The SP sent him to Tucson for couple of weeks to help out with some crew shortages.. He didn't want to rack up the miles on his new toy, so out came the 64 Falcon for the trip. Things went wrong when he left me the keys, you know summer vacation, new DL
,new girlfriend, gotta show off.

Myself and some indvidules who shall remain nameless borrowed the truck and had a fantastic week along the SP,WP and BN. Now I'm thinking i'm smarter then dad, heck I'll just make sure its washed and gassed. I was pretty proud of myself, thinking I out smarted the Old Man , when upon his return he retired to the garage where at first he noticed nothing unusual. Parked where it should be, gas ok, but....."ok explain this odometer reading!" he demanded. My excuse was evasive, his response is unrepeatable.

Somehow I survived that day.

Dad passed away later that year, He gave me the truck, when he was diagnoised with inoperable cancer. I still drive it occasionly and when I do I can't help reflect back on my failure to consider the odometer in my great escape. You know I never did succeed in out smarting him.

I was reflecting while working on my current project, scanning over 400 photos which includes the ones related to the above trip onto disc. It puts in perspective how times have changed in the past 20-30 years and how the common then is the sought after now and furthermore to think that some subjects were so numerous that we failed to pay attention to them until it was too late.

Well, all this activity has given me a appetite , what do you recommend?

POST FROM THE PAST

Enjoy!

Tom, Proprietor of "Our" Place, an adult eating & drinking establishment!

[siberianmo]

Morning Ted

Saw your Post just as I was about to log out .... the timing this AM may have prevented you from catching the SUMMARY and old times Post right before it .... happens!

We've had some pretty interesting back 'n forths as of late and it appears that the conversation level has elevated a bit to get back to our roots, which of course is supposed to be Classic Trains - real or model.

My recollections of the 60's involved trips alright - but they were all at sea! Any rockin' and rollin' done in that era was either in the Atlantic, Caribbean, Pacific and Bering Sea. Oh how I would have loved to experience the railroading that many of you did back then. The tail end of it all, for sure, but still sufficient systems with which to get from one place to another with greater frequency than we have today.

There's a town in Oregon that I dearly love to visit - and in fact, entertained notions of living in back when I was assigned to southern California (1986-88). Eugene is the name and one thing I remember is a restaurant downtown called The Oregon Electric Station. This place, if still there, is a registered Oregon Hisotrical Landmark and features renovated antique train cars for dining in an original turn-of-the-century (not this one!) train station. What a treat to experience. Don't know what, if any, connection existed with Pacific Electric, but pehaps Dave can enlighten us.

Catch ya later - time to get crackin' on the yard work. Cooler temps 'round here, thank heavens!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Anonymous]

Good Mornin' everyone, Tom, I'll grab a couple of the fresh prune Danish and a steamy "unleaded" for now, thanks. Looks like "steam is king" for Nick and Chris today. The mention of "Thomas the Tank Engine" always brings back thoughts of one of my young Nephews sitting transfixed before the T.V. (Teley?) watching the show with bated breath. There were decent values passed along in the scripting of the show which gave we elders a "good feeling" about it. Oh yes, I took a "joshing" from my Nephew when "Theodore Tug Boat" was telecast for the first time on P.B.S.[(-D]

Not to be outdone, I see the "wire blokes" have posted some "bitter sweet" data on the old P.E.! BTW Rob, the A.C. dilemma added to "vintage" streetcars is duly noted and understood. Yes Al, the standards (in my opinion) reaped the benefit of greater variety with the A.C. faring added to the monitor roofs. Most of my HO heavyweights have the old "ice bunkers" in the basement. My experience on a Pullman 12-2 (B. & O. charter) from Balto. to Chicago, then Chicago to Seattle (via G.N.) found me in an upper berth catching a miserable cold by arrival time...enjoyed every minute of it.[^] Our four heavyweight sleepers were lashed up with the Empire Builder which was a vista domed streamliner with all of the amenities. Going from the B.&O. cars to the G.N. was like changing centuries. Our 10 hour lay-over in Chicago was time well spent in a half dozen "haunts" that many of you probably remember from the 1960's.[tup] Does "Berghoff's" steamed beer or "Diamond Jim's" steak house ring a bell? Boris, that was a rehtorical statement, not a "round." Krumlins![:(!]

Now on the electric side; who has any recollection of the venerable Key System in San Fran? I've only read and seen pix of the operations but WOW, was I impressed. The West Coast, famous for the first Freeways, also had one of the best electrified interurban systems in the world.[tup] I'm not willing to "hold my breath" until I see concrete X-ties and steel rail sitting on former "car pool lanes" but ya know what? Its Day is coming![2c] If any two people know this, its *** and Tom!

Okay, great to be with you's again and another round please Tom...now Boris NOW! Happy rails gents.

[siberianmo]

WEDNESDAY’s NEWS & SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS

G’day All! Mid-week – not much to say this find day as I just completed my responses to the late nite posts … so let’s get with it!

Thanx to all of you who keep us at the top of the heap on the Classic Trains Forum! [tup][tup][tup]

News of the Day:

Check out the Age of Steam Museum in Dallas web site at http://www.dallasrailwaymuseum.com/collection.html

SUMMARY:
Name - Date/Time - (Page#) - Remarks

(1) siberianmo Tom Posted: 23 Aug 2005, 06:07:03 (84) Tuesday’s News & Summary

(2) Trainnut484 Russell Posted: 23 Aug 2005, 07:19:29 (84)

(3) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 23 Aug 2005, 10:51:15 (84)

(4) siberianmo Tom Posted: 23 Aug 2005, 11:18:10 (84) reply to Trainnut484 & Theodorebear

(5) wrwatkins *** Posted: 23 Aug 2005, 11:23:44 (84)

(6) siberianmo Tom Posted: 23 Aug 2005, 13:56:45 (84) reply to wrwatkins

(7) earlydiesels Dan Posted: 23 Aug 2005, 15:00:45 (84)

(8) siberianmo Tom Posted: 23 Aug 2005, 15:28:57 (84) reply to earlydiesels w/The Silverton

(9) Theodorebear Ted Posted: 23 Aug 2005, 17:12:36 (84)

(10) pwolfe Pete Posted: 23 Aug 2005, 18:19:03 (84)

(11) passengerfan Al Posted: 23 Aug 2005, 18:41:01 (84)

(12) siberianmo Tom Posted: 23 Aug 2005, 19:51:51 (84) reply to Theodorebear – pwolfe & passengerfan

(13) West Coast S Dave Posted: 23 Aug 2005, 20:16:07 (84)

(14) nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 23 Aug 2005, 20:41:11 (85)

(15) nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 23 Aug 2005, 21:12:24 (85)

(16) CFournier Chris Posted: 23 Aug 2005, 22:10:04 (85)

(17) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 23 Aug 2005, 22:59:19 (85)

(18) Gunns Kevin Posted: 24 Aug 2005, 00:42:12 (85)

(19) siberianmo Tom Posted: 24 Aug 2005, 08:05:04 (85) replies to West Coast S – nickinwestwales – CFournier – trolleyboy – Gunns

=======================================
That’s it! [tup][;)]
Tom (Siberianmo) [4:-)] [oX)]
Proprietor of “Our” Place, an adult eating & drinking establishment!

[siberianmo]

Morning All,

Looks like old times as I've temporarily reverted to the redundant postings for my replies. Too much on two different pages - so this makes for an easier read ......

QUOTE: West Coast S Posted: 23 Aug 2005, 20:16:07

Afternoon Tom and the gang.... Round for the house, Did some local railfanning the other day. Interested? Let me sally up with cold tap, if you please.

Huntington would be amazed to see late model EMD power working the Pacific Electric. UP has spent the last several years upgrading it's Torrance Industrial Spur, all ex Pacific Electric with 110lb. relay welded rail, fre***ies and the only new ballast seen in 50 years.

A few observations:

Sadly, the spur to the shop location is now a weed strewn path, the shops were closed in 1953 and razed in 1983 to be replaced by a industrial park, odd the former switches were removed intact and stacked like snap track with ghostly footprints hinting at a right of ways not quite lost to time. Track on this spur was intact and active until US Steel which had purchased the former shop complex filed for bankruptcy in the mid 80s.
SP MP15s and Geeps/SD 7-9s were normally assigned to the steel runs

The station is now a coffee shop that bears no resemblance to it's former use, the freight shed is used as a patio, the pavement embedded rails are intact for the passenger bypass, abandoned in 1940 but restored by SP after PE's demise and used until 1984 to service a Lumber yard.

Despite the seasons that have passed there is no denying what it was, from trackage buried in pavement to the typical interurbanish right- of-way the Pacific Electric lives on. [
Dave

Hi Dave

It’s never a pleasant experience to visit an area once thriving with the activity of rail transportation only to discover mere remnants of what used to be. Been there, done that …….. [tdn]

While I cannot relate to Pacific Electric, I do understand the emotional ties. In my youth there was an operating electrified railroad called the Staten Island Rapid Transit (SIRT). The cars resembled NYC subway cars – although that’s not what they were; operating on a third rail system. The place I grew up at is an island south of Manhattan – about 15 miles long and 7.5 wide at its widest point (kinda resembles the shape of South America for those who may need a mental pix). Anyway, most of the island’s shoreline was linked to a northern location called St. George, where the famed Staten Island Ferry terminal is located. My days of riding the SIRT were in the late 1940’s into the early 50’s.

Not that long ago, and against my better judgment, I decided to do a bit of research on the SIRT. What did I discover [?] A veritable plethora of information and pictures of what it was, what it became, and what it is today. Man oh man, did my mental images get a work over with that revelation. The pictures are so vivid – rights of way either completely gone and replaced by development or simply vestiges of the past, with trees and debris scattered all over and around what once was a thriving rail link.

While part of the system remains, under a new mantra with modernized cars, the old SIRT lives – in my mind’s eye, that is!

Catch ya later and thanx for the Post! [tup]

Tom

QUOTE: nickinwestwales Posted: 23 Aug 2005, 20:41:11
Well good evening one and all, nice to see a brisk exchange about the place-the measured click of ivory balls from the back room, the good natured banter of the track gang, the gentle susurrus of informed debate from the stools ,the tinkle of girlish laughter from the booths, the rabble-rousing pulse of Chuck, Eddie & Jerry-Lee on the juke, the anguished howl of Boris trying to retrieve a dropped spatula from the deep fat fryer manually-all in all, the sound of the perfect cyber environment.

So, some train stuff, heavens to Betsy, forgetting my manners here, TOM- since these good people are prepared to sit here and listen to me ramble I feel honour bound to keep them refreshed, if you would do the honours and we can get started.

Right, the Tal-y-lyn -classic train or not-most of the descriptions found here are of multi-part streamlined expresses connecting the great metropolii of North America,I will now take you all to the extreme other end of the scale,Gentlemen, welcome to Wales ! The Tal-y-lyn Railway is a 2`3" gauge steam line running from Towyn, on the coast of Cardigan Bay,6 or 7 miles inland (E) to Nant Gwernol where a new station has been built just short of the former yard and incline. The line opened in the early 1860`s to connect the slate quarries at Bryn Eglwys with the Cambrian Railways Welsh coast line at Towyn, previously the slates had gone out by packhorse to Aberdovey. For the first 90 years of its life the line was serviced by 2 engines,#1 Tal-y-lyn, blt Fletcher-Jennings,Whitehaven,Cumbria-0-4-0ST with open cab. found to be unsatisfactory as delivered owing to short wheelbase, returned to factory for modification into 0-4-2ST with full cab upon arrival of #2 Dolgoch-blt as above but with well tank to lower centre of gravity and rear driving axle behind firebox to stretch wheelbase for increased stability. other stock,5 four-wheel passenger cars, about a 100 slate hutches, some coal carts, a few odds & ends. The line earned money during the boom years but without ever bothering the taxman-in fact it was missed out of the 1948 Nationalisation because nobody in Whitehall knew it was there.....By 1951,more or less moribund, quarries closed-3 times weekly service to Abergonolwyn pass term.paid for by Sir Henry Haydn-Jones the owner of both the railway and the quarries-also the local (Liberal) Member of Parliament-1951-group of rail fans form T.R.P.S,take over day to day running of line as tourist train-#1 out of service req. major overhaul,#2 useable but not reliable. by chance nearby CORRIS railway had ceased operations after a bridge washout and the station-master at Machynnleth had hidden the 2 surviving engines at the back of the goods yard under tarps. even luckier-same gauge #3 Sir Haydn-blt Falcon Wks,Loughborough ( later Brush-Falcon & English Electric) 0-4-2ST,like#1,originally blt as 0-4-0 but trailing truck added for stability-usable when delivered but prone to spreading track so kept in reserve #4 Edward Thomas-Kerr-Stuart 0-4-2ST-carried most of the traffic for the first couple of seasons with #2 when available, acquired later#6 Douglas-Barclay 0-4-0 WT and the new engine 0-6-2T "Tom Rolt",----

Enough, I`m rambling, more available if you`ve nothing better to do, moonlight mile, night all, Nick

Hi Nick

Another classic Post from our British Isles connection – all’s well again ‘round here! [yeah]

Without ever having had the opportunity to visit Wales, thanx to your vivid descriptions, you’ve provided us with a picture – once again – of what used to be. Classic in every sense of the word! [tup][tup][tup]

Of course as things like quarries, coal mines and attendant industries boarded up shop, the rail links went with ‘em. That’s a story told the world over. Just a look to Cape Breton (Nova Scotia, for those who may not have the geography visualized) and the mining that used to support rail. No more. No more passenger service and none to be foreseen. Even VIA Rail’s 5 year experiment with an all first class excursion train out of Halifax (once per week each way) is no more. Now the fight is to retain the trackage …… good luck.

How very important rail was to the development of what we call the western world. How very sad indeed it is to realize that without the full court press of government to relieve the enormous tax burden, regulations, et al, we are more and more inclined to expand highways and runways. Booooooooo hissssssss.

Always enjoy what you have to offer …. Keep ‘er going, mate!

Tom

QUOTE: nickinwestwales Posted: 23 Aug 2005, 21:12:24

P.S. if the above seems familiar, especially to those who read "Thomas" stories to the little ones,think "Skarloey" "Rheneas" "Sir Handel" "Peter Sam" "Duncan" & "Rusty" the diesel

Thanx! [tup]

QUOTE: CFournier Posted: 23 Aug 2005, 22:10:04

Hii Tom and the boys, since this is a cyber bar, I'll stick with the Old Tennis Shoe whiskey.
Hey guys, check this month's Railroad Model Craftsman, there is 2 pages on my local Hull-Chelsey-Wakefield steam powered train. A great ride for steam aficionados.
I took the trip twice in the last few years.
See you later...
CHRIS

Sorry Chris – still no cigar! [tdn] Cyber it is – but true to life booze, brew and wine is what we offer! [swg] Sorry, privilege of ownership. [;)]

Thanx for the tip … will have to check it out!

Tom

QUOTE: trolleyboy Posted: 23 Aug 2005, 22:59:19

Hello everyone. Tom I'll help myself to the peanuts and the black label beer. Oh and Leon a round of whatever for the house as well. .

westcoast It's sad to hear of the passing of the remainders of the Pacific Electric.I had thought that there was some rumblings of refurbing parts of the line for some form of light rail? I still wander about St Catharines ( my hometown ) and Thorold Ontario. Bit's and pieces of the old NS&T are still there some still used by trillium rail the local shortline. Though another chunk is about to disappear, the last of the well and Avenue Line is closing at the end of the month. Ferranti Packard ( local transformer co ) is closing up shop and they are the last customer on the spur. So up the tracks come. Sadly these were originally laid in 1890

Ted I'm not really for "adding" to the classic cars as it does ruin the old look. In fact our museum's goal in life is to restore to as original as we can get the cars. Adding AC to a Whitt or PCC lets say would involve some heavy electrical surgery. The cars systems were not designed for them so the work would be expensive. On Whitt's and PCC's I don't think you could mount under body equipment. Both car types PCC's especially are fairly low slung so clearances would be an issue. No sence adding te AC unit if you 're going to break it on the pavement or manhole cover the first time out. I do believe that most modern light rail equipment can be purchased so equipped so cities envisioning light rail can get the rider friendly AC equipped cars from Duwag or Seimens.

*** Hope you can make it in the spring we will keep you apprised Your cars should be alright. The 4600's ( 24 cars in all ) were extensively rebuilt to operate on the Harbour front line. TTC completely rewired and refurbed them in the late 80's. They ran on the line till 1995. We have 4600, 4611, and 4618 from this series. Interesting note is theses cars were all 4500's originally meaning they were the last built new cars for Toronto by cancar Montreal. 1951 and 1952 deliveries. This means that of our operating fleet at the museum 4600 is the baby ! Keep an eye for rust though 4600 is used daily at the museum but we are fighting a corrosion battle with it. The floor and belt rails are highly susceptible. well folks I'm off and a running

Hello Rob

As always, enjoy eavesdropping on your Posts ……. One day perhaps I’ll actually understand it all! [swg]

Tom

QUOTE: Gunns Posted: 24 Aug 2005, 00:42:12

Hi All, Tom
Yet more coffee, <at work again>
Sorry to have been reclusive but my wife got me a copy of the 11th ed of Machinery Handbook from 1942, it is the one in print when the 2926 was designed and built. =Just now came up for air, from reading a book for designing classic trains. <G> As for family railroad connection the best I have is that my Grandfather was a fireman on a 0-4-0T in the Utah Copper Mine, but after getting married he became the first Auto dealer in Idaho. He showed me a narrow gauge ROW that was abandoned in the 1800s after the UP put in its branch line to Pocatello. Work day tomorrow at the site,
A round for the house,
Gunns

Howdy Gunns

Just as long as you don’t forget us, don’t sweat the small stuff! [tup] Books will do that to ya …… nothin’ wrong there.

No railroaders in my family background – at least that I’m aware of. All the men were sailors going back several generations. Always enjoy hearing, and learning, of the days of early rail in this country and elsewhere ……

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Gunns]

Hi All, Tom
Yet more coffee, <at work again>
Sorry to have been reclusive but my wife got me a copy of the 11th ed of Machinery Handbook from 1942, it is the one in print when the 2926 was desinged and built. just now came up for air, from reading a book for desinging classic trains. <G> As for family railroad connection the best I have is that my Grandfather was a fireman on a 0-4-0T in the Utah Copper Mine, but after getting married he became the first Auto dealer in Idaho. He showed me a narrow gauge ROW that was abandoned in the 1800s after the UP put in its branch line to Pocatello. Work day tomorrow at the site,
A round for the house,
Gunns

[trolleyboy]

Hello everyone. Tom I'll help myself to the peanuts and the black label beer. Oh and Leon a round of whatever for the house as well.[tup][8D]. westcoast It's sad to hear of the passing of the remainders of the Pacific Electric.I had thought that there was some rumblings of refurbing parts of the line for some form of light rail? I still wander about St Catharines ( my hometown ) and Thorold Ontario. Bit's and pieces of the old NS&T are still there some still used by trillium rail the local shortline. Though another chunk is about to disappear, the last of the welland Avenue Line is closing at the end of the month. Ferranti Packard ( local transformer co ) is closing up shop and they are the last customer on the spur. So up the tracks come. Sadley these were originally laid in 1890[sigh]Ted I'm not really for "adding" to the classic cars as it does ruin the old look. In fact our museum's goal in life is to retore to as original as we can get the cars. Adding AC to a Whitt or PCC lets say would involve some heavy electrical surgery. The cars systems were not designed for them so the work would be expensive. On Whitt's and PCC's I don't think you could munt under body equipment. Both car types PCC's espeacially are fairly low slung so clearances would be an issue. No sence adding te AC unit if you 're going to break it on the pavement or manhole cover the first time out.I do beleave that most modern light rail equipment can be purchased so equipped so cities envisioning light rail can get the rider friendly AC equiped cars from Duwag or Seimens.*** Hope you can make it in the spring we will keep you apprised[tup] Your cars should be allright. The 4600's ( 24 cars in all ) were extensivly rebuilt to operate on the Harbour front line. TTC completely rewired and refurbed them in the late 80's. They ran on the line till 1995. We have 4600,4611,and 4618 from this series. interesting note is theses cars were all 4500's originally meaning they were the last built new cars for Toronto by cancar montreal. 1951 and 1952 deliveries. This means that of our operating fleet at the museum 4600 is the baby ! Keep an eye for rust though 4600 is used daily at the museum but we are fighting a corosion battle with it. The floor and belt rails are highly suseptable. well folks I'm off and a running

[CFournier]

Hi Tom and the boys, since this is a cyber bar, I'll stick with the Old Tennis Shoe whiskey.
Hey guys, check this month's Railroad Model Craftsman, there is 2 pages on my local Hull-Chelsey-Wakefield steam powered train. A great ride for steam afficionados.
I took the trip twice in he last few years.
See you later...
CHRIS

[nickinwestwales]

P.S. if the above seems familiar,especially to those who read "Thomas" stories to the little ones,think "Skarloey" "Rheneas" "Sir Handel" "Peter Sam" "Duncan" & "Rusty" the diesel [C=:-)]

[nickinwestwales]

Well good evening one and all,nice to see a brisk exchange about the place-the measured click of ivory balls from the back room,the good natured banter of the track gang,the gentle susurrus of informed debate from the stools,the tinkle of girlish laughter from the booths,the rabble-rousing pulse of Chuck,Eddie & Jerry-Lee on the juke,the anguished howl of Boris trying to retrieve a dropped spatula from the deep fat fryer manually-all in all,the sound of the perfect cyber environment. So,some train stuff,heavens to betsy,forgetting my manners here, [4:-)]TOM- since these good people are prepared to sit here and listen to me ramble I feel honour bound to keep them refreshed,if you would do the honours and we can get started. Right,the Tal-y-lyn -classic train or not-most of the descriptions found here are of multi-part streamlined expresses connecting the great metropolii of North America,I will now take you all to the extreme other end of the scale,Gentlemen,welcome to Wales ! The Tal-y-lyn Railway is a 2`3" gauge steam line running from Towyn,on the coast of Cardigan Bay,6 or 7 miles inland (E) to Nant Gwernol where a new station has been built just short of the former yard and incline. The line opened in the early 1860`s to connect the slate quarries at Bryn Eglwys with the Cambrian Railways Welsh coast line at Towyn,previously the slates had gone out by packhorse to Aberdovey. For the first 90 years of its life the line was serviced by 2 engines,#1 Tal-y-lyn,blt Fletcher-Jennings,Whitehaven,Cumbria-0-4-0ST with open cab. found to be unsatisfactory as delivered owing to short wheelbase,returned to factory for modification into 0-4-2ST with full cab upon arrival of #2 Dolgoch-blt as above but with well tank to lower centre of gravity and rear driving axle behind firebox to stretch wheelbase for increased stability. other stock,5 four-wheel passenger cars,about a 100 slate hutches, some coal carts,a few odds & ends. The line earned money during the boom years but without ever bothering the taxman-in fact it was missed out of the 1948 Nationalisation because nobody in Whitehall knew it was there.....By 1951,more or less moribund,quarries closed-3 times weekly service to Abergonolwyn pass term.paid for by Sir Henry Haydn-Jones the owner of both the railway and the quarries-also the local (Liberal) Member of Parliament-1951-group of rail fans form T.R.P.S,take over day to day running of line as tourist train-#1 out of service req. major overhaul,#2 useable but not reliable. by chance nearby CORRIS railway had ceased operations after a bridge washout and the station-master at Machynnleth had hidden the 2 surviving engines at the back of the goods yard under tarps. even luckier-same gauge #3 Sir Haydn-blt Falcon Wks,Loughborough ( later Brush-Falcon & English Electric) 0-4-2ST,like#1,originally blt as 0-4-0 but trailing truck added for stability-usable when delivered but prone to spreading track so kept in reserve #4 Edward Thomas-Kerr-Stuart 0-4-2ST-carried most of the traffic for the first couple of seasons with #2 when available,aquired later#6 Douglas-Barclay 0-4-0 WT and the new engine 0-6-2T "Tom Rolt",----enough,I`m rambling,more available if you`ve nothing better to do,moonlight mile,night all,nick[C=:-)]

[West Coast S]

Afternoon Tom and the gang.... Round for the house, Did some local railfanning the other day. Interested? Let me sally up with cold tap, if you please.


Huntington would be amazed to see late model EMD power working the Pacific Electric. UP has spent the last several years upgrading it's Torrance Industrial Spur, all ex Pacific Electric with 110lb. relay welded rail, fre***ies and the only new ballast seen in 50 years.

A few observations:

Sadly, the spur to the shop location is now a weed strewn path, the shops were closed in 1953 and razed in 1983 to be replaced by a industrial park, odd the former switches were removed intact and stacked like snap track with ghostly footprints hinting at a right of ways not quite lost to time. Track on this spur was intact and active until US Steel which had purchased the former shop complex filed for bankruptcy in the mid 80s.
SP MP15s and Geeps/SD 7-9s were normally assigned to the steel runs

The station is now a coffee shop that bears no resemblence to it's former use, the frieght shed is used as a patio, the pavement embeded rails are intact for the passenger bypass, abandoned in 1940 but restored by SP after PE's demise and used until 1984 to service a Lumber yard.

Despite the seasons that have passed there is no denying what it was, from tackage buried in pavement to the typical interurbanish right- of-way the Pacifc Electric lives on.

Dave [tup]

[siberianmo]

Evening Gang!

Quite a gathering since my last Post and it's good to see. [tup]

Ted - Pete and Al always appreciate your participation and insightful thoughts.

Ted Don't know if you misread something into what I commented on regarding my opinion of the Vet's groups [ belong to insofar as meetings and the like are concerned. Whether they be ceremonial or community active types of organizations, God love 'em all. I'm just not into that degree of socializing any more ....... and I don't knock those who are. Amen.

Pete I'm assuming you saw the list of Welsh brew that I posted yesterday that Nick has shipped to you. It will be stowed (sailor talk for sotred) within our private reefer car located over on the CP siding just 'round the bend. For now, it's Bathams ....
That's pretty good info you've passed regarding the ridership numbers in the U.K. My guess is that once we see gasoline prices hitting the $4 per gallon mark, one will need ear protectors - at $5, Congress is going to be descended upon like the locusts do in the plains states ........ Unfortunately, we've lost so much rail infrastructure, that to quickly do anything to relieve the traveling public simply ain't gonna happen. A significant difference between North Americans and Europeans is the reliance on automobiles vs rail. One need not guess which is which.

Al You are indeed blessed with your very own personalized belt buckle to keep you perched on your Permanent Stool. How innovative of Ted, wouldn't you agree[?]

Boris ring the bell twice for the rounds on Ted and Al! [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[passengerfan]

Good Afternoon Tom, Time for a double CR and a round for the house.
Dave the Age of Steam 3197 passenger car is indeed historically significant. It is one of only two Santa Fe Streamlined observations to survive intact as built. The other is NAVAJO at the Colorado RR Museum.
The 3197 was one of those Budd built cars that almost never got constructed as work began on the car in January 1942 just after WW II began and Budd was already gearing up for war production that did not include rail cars. The war Department permitted work to continue on the car but not to interfere with wartime production. The car was finally outshopped in May 1942 and featured 50 seats in pairs and two facing seats in the rounded observation end facing each other these two seats were not sold but were for the enjoyment of anyone who could find one empty. The forward part of the car was occupied bgvy two large long distance bathrooms. The car was first assigned to a third EL CAPITAN that gave the train every other day service throughout WW II. In 1947 all three prewar EL CAPITAN Observation cars 3197-3199 were rebuilt with 38 Heywood Wakefield Leg-Rest Seats replacing the 50 reclining back seats. The 3197 was the only one of the three cars to retain its observation end with 3198 and 3199 becoming regular 36 seat leg rest seat coaches in November and December 1960 losing their Observation ends at that time. Both of these cars were later sold to NJ Transit where they ran out their remaining years.
The 3197 operated with the M-190 and M-160 between Clovis and Carlsbad. N.M. for the remainder of its operational career on the Santa Fe. It was stored at Clovis following the takeover of passenger services by Amtrak and today is at the Age of Steam Museum. I visited the car a couple of times at the museum and found it still looks great.
Ted you asked a question about converting older cars to A/C and does it always alter the roofline. Unfortunately the P/S built cars with clerestory roofs in all instances I have seen were altered. But I don't know why with todays A/C available that it couldn't be hung beneath the car and the air ducted under the cars and up through the floors. It certainly would not destroy the shape of the roofline. But please whatever you do don't do what Princess Tours did to three of the former Milwaukee Road Super domes and hang what looked like RV A/C units along the top of the dome.
Well that is enough from me for now anyway.

[pwolfe]

Hi Tom and all a pint of Brains bitter if it is in yet please
Was just about to call in yesterday after catching up but a t-storm popped up so I thought I had better get off line .
TED Yes I think skittles would be a great game for the back room it is a bit noisy and involves throwing things. I can explain more if you want.
[tup] *** ON YOUR ELEVATION TO THE STOOL[^] The piece on running the railroad was one the best I have seen.Maybe just maybe there is another golden age of railroads round the corner for passenger travel.In Europe with the new high speed lines they are taking passengers off the airlines I read recently that there are only two flights between Paris and Brussels now. They are hoping for similar when the new Chanel tunnel high speed link opens in 2007 each Euro star van hold 750 passengers.Perhaps it could happen here.
In the U.K.travel numbers are up to they were up to in the mid 1950's which considering the massive rise of car-ownership and the motorways is remarkable.
As for the BIG BOY I have been lucky enough to see 3 of them Denver, Kirkwood and Green Bay how many were saved [?] they are awe-inspiring locos
[C=:-)]NICK thanks for the Brains what does Bread of Heaven taste like as I have not had the pleasure of trying it yet[?] Quite afew years ago now we had a railfan trip to CYMBARGOED open cast mine after there was a 3 hour break in Cardiff which we spent in the Brains brewery tap[wow][tup] Anyone who could have S.A.with breakfast is a better man than I.
Well TOM I'll have Batham's for the road and hope to call in again soon. PETE

[Anonymous]

At last things are back to normal chaos. Right Tom, I too respect "tradition" but institutionalized burial isn't one of my favorites. Our local Legion Post is more "community service" related: blood drives, scholarships for needy families, "Meals on Wheels" (elderly), "Toys for Tots" (young), food collection (needy), et al. If it were a bunch of old croanies hanging on to "past glories" or wallowing in mindless "latrine talk," I wouldn't be remotely interested.[tdn] How's about a round for all and a Molsons in a tall frosty for me?

Al, your selfless contributions to "Our" Place have certainly earned you this coveted award. We all know that you will never allow the gravity of the position "go to your head." Speaking of "gravity," that's the reason for the safety belt and engraved buckle stating "A Gentleman and a Scholar of R.R. Vision and Virtuosity" [Its a big buckle!][swg] I must ask for an opinion from you and Rob. What do you think of altering vintage cars to accomodate for air conditioning? I've seen both the Pearly Thomas (New Orleans) and the Birnies (here in Tampa) "after the fact" and was unimpressed in both cases. The original roof contour is utterly disfigured. Second question: is there any feasible means of mounting the A.C. under the car, perhaps duct and vents under the floor? I'm not deaf to the "ring" of the fare box from tourist's dollars but I wonder if some integrity to the "original" couldn't be spared somehow?[tup]

[C=:-)] Nick, thanks for the warning. Now I'm salivating for a "first thirst" trial of this brawney brew.[:D] Say, you don't imagine the undulating motion of the Zepplin might cause some unfortunate chemical reaction within those wooden casks?[:O] We don't need another Hindenburg [8] over Mentor Village.

Earlydiesels Dan, glad you're "Back in the Saddle Again."[^] Just the thought of being "at the throttle" of one of those goliathan living breathing creatures gives me a "rush." Hope your aprentices appreciate how lucky they are. If I ever get back to K.C., MO, I'd better have a week for all the haunts where you, Russell, Jeff, Pete and Tom (occasionally} "hang ye'r hats."[tup]

Rob, passengerfan Al has now entered the gas electric domain that I can relate to for interurban (radial) pass. service. The South West (U.S.) was criss crossed with these unique and nearly forgotten "work horses" on the short lines. I have a Walthers model in HO and Aristo Craft in G gauge (both Santa Fe). They were replaced with the R.D.C.'s which were grayhounds compared to the noisy gas fired 12 cylinder Chrysler and Packard "Gatling Guns" of yore. Some R.R.'s built them in their own shops and there is quite a variety on offer. They were ungainly, awkward, uncomfortable, deafening and I love them all.[(-D] I use mine in its' typical fashion, mixed pass. and light freight. Gentlemen, these consists come straight from the "bowels of haydes" and are guaranteed to prompt questions from all with eyes to see.[:O] More on this later.

I must begin preparing [dinner] soon and haven't a clue which way to go. Leon please, a parting quaff for all present. Did you see that? Leon crushed the ice for that Tequila Sunrise in one hand![alien] Trouble is: the ice was already in the cocktail glass. Happy rails everyone.

[siberianmo]

Hello earlydiesels Dan

Things aren't quite the same 'round here without ya and that's quite a Post you left us with! [tup][tup][tup] Lots to read and good stuff at that! Appreciate your taking the time for us .........

Here' s a little something for ya from Boris 'n Leon
The Silverton

By Bill Fries & Chip Davis

She was born one mornin' on a San Juan summer
Back in eighteen an' eighty an' one
She was a beautiful daughter of the D & RG
And she weighed about a thousand tons
Well it's a fourty five miles through the Animas Canyon
So they set her on the narrow gauge
She drank a whole lotta water, and she ate a lotta coal
And they called her The Silverton (Silverton train)

Here comes The Silverton up from Durango
Here comes The Silverton, a shovelin' coal
Here comes The Silverton up from the canyon
See the smoke, and hear the whistle blow

Well now listen to the whistle in the Rockwood Cut
On the Highline to Silverton town
An' yer gonna git a shiver, when ya check out the river
Which is four hunderd feet straight down!
Take on some water at the Needleton tank
And then ya struggle up a two-five grade
And by the time ya git yer hide passed the Snowshed Slide
Ya had a ride on The Silverton (Silverton train)

Here comes The Silverton up from Durango
Here comes The Silverton, a shovelin' coal
Here comes The Silverton up from the canyon
See the smoke, and hear the whistle blow

Now down by the station, early in the mornin'
There's a whole lotta people in line
An' they all got a ticket on the train to yesterday
An' it's a gonna leave on time
Well it's a fourty five miles through the Animas Canyon
So they set her on the narrow gauge
She drinks a whole lotta water, and she eats a lotta coal
And they call her The Silverton (Silverton train)

Here comes The Silverton up from Durango
Here comes The Silverton, a shovelin' coal
Here comes The Silverton up from the canyon
See the smoke, and hear the whistle blow

{Repeat Chorus}
===================================
This great song is from C.W. McCall's album, Black Bear Road which featured:
First Side

Black Bear Road
The Silverton
Lewis And Clark
Oregon Trail
Ghost Town

The Other Side

Convoy
Long Lonesome Road
Green River
Write Me A Song
Mountains On My Mind
==================================
Sorry, but I'm unable to help you with the flip side of Silverton, right now. Check out this URL - http://www.cw-mccall.com/works/singles/

See ya!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Anonymous]

Hello everyone! I'm feeling frisky so I'll take one of those Welsh beers Nick was talking about. And some peanuts,too. I checked out the action yesterday but did'nt add anything, Tom. Just want to stay abreast of all the happenings.
***, congrats on the promo to Order of Permanent Stool. I raise my ice cold mug in a toast. I liked the insight on the operation that you provided. Those are truly words to live by provided by a graduate of the school of reality! If memory serves, the Age Of Steam has a Frisco Northern that is an oilburning sister to our coalburner here in Spfld. I also seem to remember that it is probably the only loco that had its headlight lens changed by a licensed optician!
Gunnskevin, one of our new members at the Midland will be taking a trip on Amtrak in October with Albuquerque as the endpoint. I told him about your work on the 2926 and he requested directions so he could view your progress. I believe he will leave KC on the 11th of Oct.
Westcoast Dave, 1522 is owned by the Museum of Transport, which is part of the local parks operation. The St. Louis Steam Train Association restored her and operated during her second career. Skyrocketing insurance costs, aging volunteers, and new FRA rules concerning steam locos are what caused the group to retire her again. The group has since disbanded but the 1522 still is at the MOT. What a beautiful lady she is! Long legged, graceful and loud-the perfect woman!!!
Sunday was able to actually let my trainee run the loco. I stood next to him at the runarounds and let him get the feel of a light engine. He was on pins and needles on the way down but by the end of the day he was beginning to feel more at ease. My wife closed the gift shop early and rode the last trip. She took plenty of photos. When we get these developed, we will ask for them on a disk and will try to figure out how to post them so all my friends here at Our Place will see them. If it isn't a train or a truck, I have trouble with it!!!
My trainee has brought me something to read from his collection. It is a John Norwood book from his days on the D&RG narrow guage. It is quite the read. Instead of the normal dry, boring stuff of normal books, this explores rring from the human angle. As Midland's book reviewer, I have read enough of those!
I like that Welsh beer. Despite Nick's warning about its ability to catch up to you all at once, I'll have another. Then I'll stumble over to the jukebox to see if it is really repaired or if Tom should have to call the repairman again. Still want to hear C.W. McCall's Silverton Train and whatever the B side is.

[siberianmo]

G'day ***

Ring the bell, Boris in keeping with the long-standing tradition - just begun today - the man is buying a round, as all new inductees to the Order of the Permanent Stools should! [swg]

I just checked out The Age of Steam Museum site at http://www.dallasrailwaymuseum.com/collection.html
Nice collection - HOWEVER what's with the GG-1 in Amtrak livery[?] Good grief, that's tantamount to declaring war on those of us who revere the PRR! Arggggggggh. [tdn]

Next time[?] Are you implying that I should start pinching my pennies for another trip to Dallas for a day of trains[?] Sounds good to me - but ......... [;)] Well, should there be a next time, yes - let's check out those other places we surely didn't have time for as you ran my little aging butt ragged! [swg]

Back to the museum - I've seen pictures of that Brill Doodlebug in one or more of my modest collection of hard cover RR books. Interesting cars for sure. Never travelled in any of them, although many U.S. and Canadian RR's ran the Doodlebugs for those connectors to the mainlines. I'm getting INTERESTED ............. Whoa, boy - whoa. Can't be spendng the dog's food allowance on airline tickets! [swg]

I would have asked, How does one lose a GG-1[?] had you not elaborated. Fine, fine machines indeed and extremely durable. I wonder if the manufacturer ever envisioned how long a life these monsters would enjoy[?]

Okay - gotta get going on some chores 'round here. Leon came in for some lunch, so - he's got the bar! [tup]

Enjoy your gin and thanx for the post! [swg]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Anonymous]

Good morning Y'all. Again thanks to everyone who congratulated me upon my elevation to the permanant bar stool. I think I will celebrate by having a double Plymouth gin over ice with a lemon peel. Do not want to destroy the flavor with tonic water or other stuff. Nick, Plymoouth is made in Plymouth Devon, which is a little south of Wales. However, it is closer to Wales than where the Scotch is made in the Grampian Highlands.

For Trollryboy. I think the PCCs we got from Toronto are the 4600 series. They are numbered 4613 and 4614 so I think we are safe. I am going to do my best to get to Toronto next May, but I cannot plan that far ahead at this time. As things solidify here I will be better able to look into the future.

Like a good military commander I always keep a few assets in reserve. Tom, I did not take you to the service and inspection facility for the light rail or the Age of Steam Museum. (I am technical advisor to the museum). These two places are less than a mile apart in the Fair Park area of East Dallas. Perhaps the next trip we can hit these. In all reality we did not have time to get there last week. The Age of Steam Museum has several static displays including a GG1, which I know you will like. To my knowledge the Pennsy's rails or wires never reached Dallas, but we got one of these great locomotives anyway. We also have a big boy and a Santa Fe gasoline powered type of RDC (Forget the D in RDC). This unit still operates. There is quite a story of the delivery of the GG1 to Dallas. Naturally it wis put in a freight and hauled dead to Dallas. Along the was it got "lost" and it took the railroads a couple of weeks to locate it. I suggested using an airplane as it would ceretainly stand out in a yard, however, finances precluded this option. Alas, it finally arrived in Dallas. The big boy is the best maintained one remaining and was considered briefly for rebuilding as part of a movie documenting the rebuild. The movie fell through due to lack of funding. The museum correctly demanded that $1,000,000 be set into a reserve fund to insure that the engine would not be disassembled then the project abandoned. Somehow a warehouse of locomotive parts is not too impressive. We even have a Santa Fe stainless coach, which I believe is Budd vintage, so Tom, we cover all three of your loves.

Better be getting back to work.

Cheers,
***

[siberianmo]

G'mornin' Guys!

Still AM here in mid-continent USA ....... skies cloudy and some distant rumblilngs. Perhaps a bit of rain [yeah] - at least the temps are finally tolerable. Not so for Dallas these days - 100 (F) again! Glad I'm here! Sorry, ***[swg]

Thanx for popping in Trainnut484 Russell When your graphics exceed the comments - man oh man, it's time to regroup! [swg] Love that Santa Fe, however! [tup]

Ted So you are in dire straits this day, eh[?] A hair of the dog, perhaps[?] Maybe in your case we'd require a kennel given the description you provided of your day. I'm rather unsure whether my aging body could handle one of those kinds of days - but then again - bring it on! [swg][tup]

Sorry 'bout your friend. Nice of you and your buddies to stay connected through the Legion. I'm a Llife Member (meaning only that I've paid up the dues .....) and don't participate except for maybe a trip down to the VA cemetary on Nov 11th - but that's on my own - not with the Post. Just support 'em financially. Not much on the "good old days" kinds of stuff - they all weren't THAT good! When I retired I paid up several of my veteran's group memberships and figured that would be my contribution.

Ran into a guy one day over at the Commissary - a fellow that in many an opinion had difficulty walking and chewing gum. Nice enough guy, mind you, just not one you'd want to go ashore with in a port away from home. Anyway, this guy retired as an 0-6! And without any sea duty since he was an Ensign/LtJg. I couldn't believe my ears as he chronicled his career while I was trying my best to look interested all the while stocking the shopping cart with the things my bride ordered me to bring home. [swg] Go figure, as the kids used to say ........

Looking forward to your comments later on - and - thanx for the round and double for *** [tup] Boris ring that sucker! Twice for Ted once for my [#offtopic]!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Anonymous]

Good Mornin' all, My "Yesterday" shouldn't happen to a Bedouin who cheats on his favorite two hump Camel. It began with a funeral for a long time Legionairre, a "Wake" follwing the ceremonies and then a trip to the Largo Live Steam R.R. (7-1/2" gauge) to "shake" the dreary mood. Predictably, I got "tied up" with some members of the Club and the after operations "social" turned into a soiree that would make Atilla the Hun blush.[:O] Today, holds little more promise as the aftermath of said "social" has taken "Its" toll all the way down to my Argile sox.[xx(]

***, although I couldn't be the first to congratulate you at this auspicious event, rest assured I certainly celebrated it in absentia.[tup] Great discussions between you and Rob on a subject near and dear to yours truly...Trolleys. I wi***o return to several points both of you have brought up a little later. But, for now, I must get my "act together" for visitors due here in half-n-hour. Tom, just checking in for now, please set up a round for the bar and a double for *** until I can return for a proper toast and official recognition of ***'s stahlwart membership in "The Order of the Permanent Stools." The engravers are just now finishing the enscription on the brass buckle for your saftey belts. OOOps! Here they come now. Back a.s.a.p.!

[Trainnut484]

Good morning Tom and everyone [:)]. Tom I'll have a big cup of java and a danish from the Mentor Bakery please.

[bow][bow] Congrats to you *** on your promotion to Permanent Stool status [tup].

I've checked out the Museum thread. Doug, Rob and Kevin have it hummin with all their latest accomplishments [tup][yeah]

Gotta go for now

Russell

[siberianmo]

TUESDAY’s NEWS & SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS

Good Morning Guys!

As always, there’s a fresh supply from The Mentor Village Bakery – some freshly brewed Joe (regular ‘n decaf) and of course the light breakfast menu. Enjoy! [tup]

A rather uneventful Monday it was – very surprised by the inactivity on the part of those we call regulars. Once again the phenomenon of the Ghost Browsers seemed to apply – customers signed in, but nothing to say. [%-)]

I thank those of you who took the time to welcome *** into the Order of the Permanent Stools. [tup][tup]

News of the Day:

No news is good news!

SUMMARY:
Name - Date/Time - (Page#) - Remarks

(1) siberianmo Tom Posted: 22 Aug 2005, 06:20:34 (83) Monday’s News & Summary

(2) siberianmo Tom Posted: 22 Aug 2005, 09:44:03 (83) Selection Committee report

(3) Gunns Kevin Posted: Aug 2005, 09:49:15 (83)

(4) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 22 Aug 2005, 10:29:20 (83)

(5) siberianmo Tom Posted: 22 Aug 2005, 10:32:11 (83) reply to Gunns

(6) siberianmo Tom Posted: 22 Aug 2005, 10:42:19 (83) reply to trolleyboy

(7) wrwatkins *** Posted: 22 Aug 2005, 11:32:33 (83)

(8) CFournier Chris Posted: 22 Aug 2005, 11:46:44 (83)

(9) siberianmo Tom Posted: 22 Aug 2005, 13:17:45 (83) reply to wrwatkins & CFournier

(10) wrwatkins *** Posted: 22 Aug 2005, 13:44:47 (83)

(11) bjdukert Duke Posted: 22 Aug 2005, 14:53:02 (83)

(12) siberianmo Tom Posted: 22 Aug 2005, 15:08:59 (83) reply to wrwatkins

(13) siberianmo Tom Posted: 22 Aug 2005, 15:13:17 (84) reply to bjdukert

(14) nickinwestwales Nick Posted: 22 Aug 2005, 19:51:45 (84)

(15) siberianmo Tom Posted: 22 Aug 2005, 20:12:21 (84) reply to nickinwestwales

(16) passengerfan Al Posted: 22 Aug 2005, 20:26:10 (84)

(17) siberianmo Tom Posted: 22 Aug 2005, 21:38:08 (84) reply to passengerfan

(18) trolleyboy Rob Posted: 22 Aug 2005, 23:54:20 (84)

(19) siberianmo Tom Posted: 22 Aug 2005, 06:05:11 (84) reply to trolleyboy

=======================================
That’s it! [tup][;)]
Tom (Siberianmo) [4:-)] [oX)]
Proprietor of “Our” Place, an adult eating & drinking establishment!

[siberianmo]

Howdy Rob

A rather early start to the day for me .... university is back in session (yesterday) which means house-husband must get movin' with the chores before the bride trudges off to earn some bucks to keep me in the lifestyle that I've grown accustomed! [yeah][wow][tup][swg]

Didn't catch any sneak of a post[?] Better watch that stuff you're consuming m'boy - it'll do ya in for sure! [swg]

Can't say that I've followed allof your talk regarding those trolleys - but I'm getting there! Good thing our May Rendezvous provides for an extra day - methinks you'd throw yourself on the Earth in a rant (or sorts) if we didn't make it to your museum! [swg]

Catch ya later!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[trolleyboy]

Good evening gentlemen. I think a draft of keiths is on hand thank-you. I'm too timid to attempt the welsh brew maybe during my birthday bash as I will still be on vacation so I'll be able to sleep off any ill effects. *** Thank-you for the kind words. I suppose i am a certified juice jack. certifiable at any rate Comes from the genes i think my dad's uncle was an NS&T man and then the wifes family put me over the edge in a good way. I just enjoy operating the old cars. I do hope you can make it in the spring,we should have a few more of the usuual cast of characters operational. Bertha aka large Whitt 2424 is about to be painted as all her mechanical and electrical repairs are complete. Her biggest bugaboo was the need to replace tthe govener that controls all the air and electrical systems and her heaters. L&PS 8 or the Queen of the fleet should be running again next year once the overhead issues that have sidlined her are delt with in the fall. Like you folks we have a fine line when it comes to operating costs. in our case we are all volenteer so we tend to make dollars stretch in many different directions. yes old parts can't be had at the local parts store . we've managed to hord bits and bobs over the years,you never know when you need that 100 year old gizmo over there. By the bye if you make it up in the spring hopefully Gord our master mechanic will be around, you and he could have some interesting conversations I'm sure. You'll have to refresh my memory are the TTC cars you have the rebuild 4600's or are they the older 4400 or 4500's? If they are the older sets (4400's or 4500's)keep a close watch on them as they suffered many a Toronto winter of road salt and all it's evils. Left to there own devises they may corrode right before your eye's. We've also found that the mg sets have an annoying habit of failing to work or charge the batteries if they are left unused for long periods of time.Tom sorry to have snuck that post in plain sight , must have thrown you off posting in the am like that.[:D]Your personal bar sounds like my parents they still have booze left over from their wedding in 1959!!! I do hope the cost guard didn't expect you to drink the gallon of booze on each trip cause man o man talk about the floating liver syndrome. Well gents i'm away for now. Rob

[siberianmo]

Evenin' passengerfan Al

Sorry you can't stick around and regale us with some Classic Trains info .... but you've logged quite a few pages on this thread to justify a night off. [swg]

Appreciate your taking the time to welcome *** into the fold .... I had hoped for 100% of you guy in the permanent category .... oh well, came close.

Thanx for the round! Boris ring the bell! [tup]

Catch ya in the 'morrow. Leon the Night Man has the bar. [zzz]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]