"OUR" PLACE - SEE NEW THREAD!

[trolleyboy]

QUOTE: Originally posted by nickinwestwales

Rob,me again-just spotted your reference to GO train on Tom`s other thread,-when did they start running up as far as Barrie ?-I thought the service stopped at Bradford,or is it a bus connection ?- If they go all the way,I can justify another set for the layout [^][^] apparently Athearn have released a third set of car #`s,although they are apparently 30th anniversary cars which restricts their timeframe--by the by,how many cars do GO use on that run(academic interest only,my loops will only take loco+5),thanks,nick

Hi Nick thanks for the Deltic info. They started rehabilitating the Barrie line last summer. It was bus conection from Bradford but the increase demand fortrain service has not fallen on deaf ears.They are redoing a station near downtown and if the trains haven't started yet they will soon.BTW don't worry about the thirty year paint I rode on a thorty year painted car last summer going to the CNE and saw several others parked in trains at Mimico so go for it.They will likely still be painted that way for the fortieth. Rob

[Anonymous]

Hi Tom, I'll have the usual (Crown Royal & soda) in case you forgot and a round for yourself and the "regulars." There was an interesting cameo on the "Travel Channel" tonight about this eccentric millionaire who bought Lucias (sp?) Bebee's old excursion car (Observation/Diner) along with a second "Party Car." The cars are heavy weight std. Pullmans and he hooks them up to AmTrak runs from time to time, just to "get away from it all" for a week or two. I wish I had known earlier so I could have sent out an "A.P.B." for the gang. Hopefully, one or two of the guys caught this because I was away from the T.V. in a compromising position (I won't elaborate) for the first portion of the segment. I did manage to see the oppulence of the interior furnishings which favored a French brothel circa, 1880's or so. This show is probably available on their web site, I'll check later. The costs for the lash-up and rate per mile was less expensive than I ever would have guessed. I suppose if you can afford the coaches, provisions, cooks, waiters, and staff; any other fees would go unoticed. Oh well, that is why I'm a modeler.

Say hello to the gals for me please. Oh yes, Ruthy and I are having a little tete-a-tete on the 27th in the back booth over-looking the mainline. Nick has generously consented to perform the culinary artistry for the occasion and I leave it to you for choosing which waitress will be ours for the evening. We shouldn't be later than mid-night; earlier if our relationship gravitates to either extreme. Naturally, I'll leave you an envelope for our waitress in advance. I'll check with Nick to see if 7:30 p.m. is too early for aperitifs. While this all sounds a bit stuffy and formal; not to worry. The dart board, juke box, shuffle board, hearty laughter are all "part and parcel" of this venue we both like so well. Its late, so I bid everyone a good night until tomorrow.

[nickinwestwales]

Rob,me again-just spotted your reference to GO train on Tom`s other thread,-when did they start running up as far as Barrie ?-I thought the service stopped at Bradford,or is it a bus connection ?- If they go all the way,I can justify another set for the layout [^][^] apparently Athearn have released a third set of car #`s,although they are apparently 30th anniversary cars which restricts their timeframe--by the by,how many cars do GO use on that run(academic interest only,my loops will only take loco+5),thanks,nick

[nickinwestwales]

Hey Rob-yeah some preserved,I`ve seen one in either museum or collection somewhere-interesting loco`s-Prime mover design provided by Napier,adapted from marine propulsion systems-6 pistons sharing 3 double-ended cylinders in a tri-angle(hence the name,Deltic, from greek`delta`) arranged in banks around a crankshaft--(slightly sketchy about that bit--anyone confirm or deny ?) understand they were a touch temperamental,but when `on song` would cheerfully tow Scotland down to Cornwall-will have a hunt around,see where they all are. Well as it`s my night off and this place aint gonna serve me I`ll try that joint behind Can-Am Union Station that the customers have all been complaining about-with that much bad press it just has to be worth a look,O.K.guys,be lucky,happy or better still both-ah,here comes the `flyer`-right on time as usual-treat,its the FP9`s with the blue & golds!!!-thanks Tom!!,talk soon,nick

[siberianmo]

G'day all! Sunday afternoon and I'm still at it ..... unbelievable how much "stuff" accumulates when one isn't around to tend to it all. Anyway, thought I'd just let you know that I haven't forgotten the gang at "Our" Place .... I have a few "reports" to put together and will post 'em here and over on "Canadian Passenger Trains - Let's Talk!" [Trains magazine forum - Railroads]. Just taking a bit more time than I planned for.

Had some involved computer issues to settle yesterday - new hard drive - new operating system; need I elaborate further?! Anyway, I'm seeing the light at the end of the tunnel ........... Looks like a "babe" or two at the end of that tunnel, hmmmmmmmm.

My first reaction to the pages and pages of commentary by all of you is that I must have been overly concerned. Keeping "Our" Place up and running obviously wasn't a problem for you all and I'm very appreciative of your efforts - really. I fully intend to respond to many of your comments, personally, but first I've got to get through the pages of "stuff" I've printed out .......... wow!

A bit of information that I was going to post later - but here it is now: VIA Rail's "Ocean" will soon become all "Renaissance" equipment - I refer to it as the "Euro" train. The "Renaissance" cars had a bit of trouble along that route between Montreal and Halifax, called winter. Seems that the cars were not insulated for Canada's winters and some serious freeze ups resulted. A contract has been let for the modifications to take place to the "Euro" cars in Moncton, NB. No doubt they can use the work there - so I'd say that was a plus for the local economy.

Back to the story ...... with three train sets traveling the route six days per week (no departures at either end on Tuesdays) the Budd stainless steel cars were supposed to have been shifted to western service over a year ago. Problems with "Renaissance/Euro" cars kept one complete Budd consist on the line (Revelstoke Park bringing up the rear). As the freeze ups became more problemmatic, another Budd consist was added (Evangeline Park at the end), so that two of the three train sets are Budd cars.

On June 1st, one Budd consist gets taken off and the two "Euro" sets will have a Park Car at the end. Along with this will be a revised Easterly Class service .. essentially more of a tourist train atmosphere is planned for those purchasing this new booking. So, two of the trains will be all "Euro" with a Park Car until the end of the summer season - late September I believe. Then the Park Cars go ..... On January 1st, the remaining Budd consist gets removed and the "Ocean" will become all "Euro."

Also, the continental breakfast that was served in the Park Car as part of Easterly Class was eliminated. Additionally, while traveling westbound to Montreal, breakfast in the diner no longer includes a full menu - just a continental breakfast. Further, the evening menu only had two entrees and NO chowder! That was hard to take. I traveled that route in October 2004 and the menu had many more choices ...... So, VIA Rail has made some sweeping revisions to the service - and I didn't hear one positive word from passengers or crew about them. Looks a bit hostile to me, almost as if there's an attempt to discourage ridership.

Now, here's the rub - the trains are full. During my two round trips, all the bedrooms were booked (5 bedroom cars) and the coaches had in excess of 200 passengers as a "constant," which means they were in demand. On each visit to the dining car, there were waits for tables - something I haven't witnessed in years of travel on that route. So, it would seem that there's no problem with ridership.

So, if anyone is planning a trip aboard the "Ocean" and wants to travel aboard the Budd cars - do it soon. Once January 1st gets here, it will all be a matter of history. How sad.

That's it for now - of course we're "closed" on Sundays, but I had to check out the place, just to take note of what's been happening in "Our" Place. Seems like old times to be back and with your continued support, we'll keep this idea of ours humming along .........

See y'all in the morning - hopefully I'll have some photos for you by then. [tup] [;)]

Tom (Siberianmo)
Proprietor of "Our" Place

[passengerfan]

Good Evening all and welcome back Tom.
Double Crown Royal and a round for the house.
Can't wait for Tom to enlighten us regarding his trip.
Well have been doing a little more research on that NYC Wolverine I talked about in earlier posts. Turns out there were two eastbound and two westbound trains all quite different. The two westbound were number 17 Wolverine between New York and Chicago via Detroit and number 33 the New England Wolverine between Boston and Chicago but did not run west of Buffalo as a separate train.
The interesting thing about the Wolverine is that although a streamlined train from about 1950 on the train was a mixture of Budd and Pullman Standard cars.
Dealing with the westbounds only Wolverines the coaches were stainless steel and were comprised of one or two P/S built cars and a couple of Budd for those traveling further. Head end cars were a Storage Mail car or two a Baggage Car and Baggage Crew Dormitory followed by the coaches. A dining car was next either a prewar streamlined P/S car or postwar Budd or P/S car it seemed that what ever dining car was available was it.
The following sleeping cars are listed in 1954.
6-DBR-Lounge New York - Chicago
6-DBR Lounge Boston - Detroit from #33 in Buffalo
10-Rmt 6-DBR New York - San Francisco beyond Chicago in City of San Francisco operated in Wolverine even days only.
10-Rmt 6-DBR New York - Chicago
10-Rmt 6-DBR New York - Chicago
22-Rmt New York - Chicago
10-Rmt 6-DBR New York - Detroit Saturday Only
12-DBR New York - Detroit Saturday Only
22-Rmt New York - Detroit Saturday Only.
10-Rmt 6-DBR New York - Jackson
10-Rmt 6-DBR Boston - Chicago from #33 in Buffalo
22-Rmt Buffalo - Detroit except Saturday.
That ought to be enougn switching for anyone Still a little more research necessary but looks like one of the Storage Mail cars originated in Boston and was transferred in Buffalo from #33 to #17.
Train 33 the New England Wolverine although through cars were operated to Chicago the train itself operated only between Boston and Buffalo. The coaches did not run west of Buffalo and the dining car terminated their as well.
A 10-6 from Boston to Chicago operated in #17 west of Buffalo.
A 6-DBR Lounge car operated Boston - Detroit west of Buffalo in #17 sundays only the rest of the week this car operated west of Buffalo in #47 the all Pullman Detroiter.
A 22-Roomette opertaed Boston - Chicago west of Buffalo in #19 the Lake Shore Limited.
The 10-6 from Boston to Pittsburgh operated west of Buffalo in P&LE #38
A 10-5 (prewar streamlined car) operated between Albany and Pittsburg in #38 west of Buffalo
A heavyweight 8-Sec. 4-DBR operated in #33 between Syracuse and Buffalo This car originated in upstate New York and was destined for Pittsburgh traveling west of Buffalo in P&LE #38
What an interesting pair of passenger trains to model.
Will try to cover the eastbound tomorrow if I can find the time to do the research.
Ta Ta for now.

[trolleyboy]

Good evening everyone. I'm just cleaning up since the bars closed tomorrow. Tom welcome home you will be happy to know that none of the fine china was harmed well you were gone and the ladies have indeed fit in quite nicely.The little caboose shaped window flower boxes are a very nice touch don't you think. That Ruth quite the little carpenter! Nick thanks for the loco ID's yes deltics that was the name that was stuck in the back of my brainbox.As I understood there are one or two of them preserved? Or are they still in use? Ted the live steam club sounds like a fine thing, there is quite a nice one in North Bay Ontario on their waterfront. The fellow who started it owns a live steam ride on manufactureing affair out of Corbeil Ontario. For any newspaper comic strip fans the lady who drew For Better For Worse's hubby is this particular gent. Well it is alet one so I will bid you all adieu. Tom happy reading and welcome home again. Rob

[Anonymous]

Welcome home Tom, we missed you and that omni present reliance on your proprietership. I know it will take a while to gather your thoughts from the trip and run through the stack of mail. So, for now, just a howdy and let you know everyone is in fine health, anticipating news from your rail sojourn to the Provinces. I think you will be pleased with your decision to take on the distaff side for additional customer hospitality. And yes, perfume and curtains do add a measure of amiability previously lacking. So long for now, Ted

[nickinwestwales]

Hey Boss-good to see you back,it`s O.K,I can explain everything-well,most of it anyway,-the police reports seem to tally with the blank bits. You`ll find the cash piled up in the bathtub ,as requested. Thought you might fancy a light snack whilst you unwind,so I laid out a tray of starters for you to take up and munch on,bang on the floor if you want more beer sent up. Oh,by the way,the Can-Am track crew have booked the dining room for some sort of "Lodge" meeting on tuesday evening,-if they drink like they did last week it could well be worth the overtime.......ROB: hi-sounds like you`re thinking of the English Electrics -Deltics and baby Deltics,type 3 and 4`s-also the Sulzer type 4 Peaks--by the way,thanks for covering the bar tonight-I didnt see too much from the kitchen hatch but I did think that was no way for ladies to behave......still, we sold a load of beer and some stuff from the fridge that I was starting to get anxious about got cooked and enjoyed,so all`s well......TED: The 27th it is,will try and get a menu selection to you in time for you to choose (and us to order) the wines....Now,with your family tracing it`s roots to Skibbereen surely you are not going to tell us you were unaware of the narrow-gauge line that used to run into there..?................O.K, Gentlemen all,thankyou for helping keep Tom`s bar up and running,I think I may be due one or two days off,--managed another evenings running tonight-hadn`t intended to,but she came back from the hairdressers with a well held grievience and a desire to be alone so I decided to make the most of the situation-managed to switch out all the traffic I moved yesterday and set up most of the return workings ready for my next foray. Think I`ve figured out a way to re-connect the "North" half of the layout temporarily,until I get all the wiring sorted out in the Metro staging yard....might as well run with the ball!!!!, O.K-I`m outa here,back to your host....Tom,the floor is yours,g`n all,nick

[siberianmo]

Morning Gang! I have returned ..... what IS that smell? Oh, yeah, the girls and their perfume .... sort of blends in nicely with the diesel fumes, don't ya think? [;)]

This is only a quick stop .... gotta catch up on what's been going on 'round here - have about an inch thick stack of conversations to catch up on. Thanks to all of you for such a great job of keeping "Our" Place up and running! Really looks as if WE have got ourselves something here ..... [tup] [tup] [tup]

Curtains on the windows, talks of love and sweet talking the bartenders. My oh my, appears as if the girls really did add a bit of "something" to this old building. You'll all be happy to know that they have agreed to stay on ... how's that?! Business has picked up nicely, so they will be 'round here for some time to come ......... I'll post the schedule once I figure out "who is who" now that they have taken on new identities! [;)]

I'll be back later to fill you in on the rail travels - in a word: GREAT! Nice to be home, but those four days and nights traveling the steel rails were what the trip was all about for me. Needless to say, being in Canada for a week was also a treat - there's just something special about the Maritimes .......

There are so many of you that deserve lots of credit ... so I'll be sure to acknowledge you in my return 'epistle' ....

See y'all later! [tup] [;)]

Tom (Siberianmo) Proprietor of "Our" Place

[Anonymous]

I can't stay long, this is a operating day at the "live steam" club in Seminole, Fl (7-1/2" gauge). I heard the fellow with the Union Pacific (Northern #8444) and 6 coaches will attend today. The tunnel is now finished (the only hill in Florida) and with fresh ballast on the "long main", some near protoype speeds may be attained. Still, there is time for a vignette from memories of Erin Isle. On a "early train" run from Dublin to Cork, I enjoyed a full breakfast (eggs, sausage, potatoes, muffin)) in the restaurant car and reflected on when this was still possible on U.S. Roads. Something else ocurred to me; I was actually eating my repast, not wearing it and at considerable speed. I shared a table with two businessmen from Dublin who were kind enough to recommend a hotel downtown. Euros were eroding my dollars at a rate of 20% so I opted for a bed and breakfast near the train station. This was a pleasant old townhouse with a breakfast menu "to die for." The subsequent "run outs" from Cork were to Cobh (Queenstown) via electric rail and Skibbereen via auto bus. Skibbereen is a tiny village where my Mother's lineage allegedly hailed from, although I found no evidence to confirm this. Cobh, on the other hand, was a charming seaside town where lunch took on "a life of its own" with shell fish extraordinair beginning with Moules mariniere. The return trip from Cork to Dublin was faster due to fewer stops en route.

Yes Nick, if the 27th is open for you, Ruth has that night free for wining and dining. As you know by now, dining has become an avocation in my dotage so any day is "open" for me. Good to hear Chris and Annie are an "item" now. The news from passengerfan is always on the "up" side of railroading and encourages me for seeing the "light rail" proposed between Orlando and Tampa come to fruition. Hopefully, in my lifetime, the I-4 corridor can be avoided altogether and the best "ride" will be to and from Disney World. I never cared much for the compressed air version of the American locomotive in any case. Well, I'm on my way to Central Park for my fair ration of cinders, soot and grime, so long for now. Oh, and thanks for keeping the soda bottled and not from one of those Smith and Wesson six shooters with as many flavors. Best regards to all, Ted

[trolleyboy]

Hello everyone. Passengerfan thanks for the turbo info. Looking at thepictures of the kits available and seeing your description of the trains themselves leads me to beleave that they aren't as detailed as I had thought, still it's a thought anyway.Ted I've aleady got a furball of my one thanks for the offer though.i'm luckey i chose a trainroom which has a door on it so unless she learns how to turn a knob my wiring should be safe.Reading the info on the various UK loco's is interesting I too was wondering which class was which but was to shy to ask so thanks ted for getting the air cleared up. I'm wondering (to you Brit rail types) which diesel class were the ones that looked like an F unit with the cab on both ends. For what ever reason i alway's though they were kind of a cool looking unit.Looks like the track crew kareoke getting loud again so I'll have to see whats going on the girls may have to cut them off early tonight. Well i'll talk to everyone later. Rob

[nickinwestwales]

Well,good evening all,Jemima, a large slice of humble pie and a beer to wash it down with please. Peter,thank you sir,I stand corrected. Have checked back to photo`s and have #187(4-axle) among others Waterford service with mk2`s +van ,also #083(poss D83?)071,074 all on Dublin service,Having never seen them before and with no-one around to ask I just assumed they were the old Metro-Vicks with a make-over. Please,sit and join us,You`ll drink on my tab tonight. Chris-splendid news,looks like the good old "Je ne sais qois" works it`s magic again.....Nothing like a moonlight spin to melt a Ladies heart ,especially when you hold it down a gear and let the engine rev a little............ So,as we`re celebrating,a rolling rock with a lagavulin within arms reach ??-good man. Passengerfan-Looks like a big drink for you as well-A rare example of beaurocracy giving way to common sense-wonder how much of the "new" equipment will turn out to be pre-owned-could be some interesting combo`s there. Also thanks for the "ride" on the turbo,nice to know the F units I`m modelling could pull their weight in the real world-cant visualise that turbo in blue and yellow though. Rob,what you having there ?Large brandy & port will keep out the chills,good man,there you go. The only one from your list that I have solid info on is a Marklin 3-rail `Northlander` set with 3 unpowered T.E.E. cars,one a cab car plus what looked like an F7 rather than an FP7 and pretty basic with it--Nice to hear the new barn is on the way,with the annual temp. gradient you guys deal with,any shelter from the elements is good ,purpose built is gonna be like hotel living-Result!!.....Ted,my apologies for leading you astray,-I begin to suspect,that through a combination of age and lifestyle choices,memory is becoming more a matter of a general area than a specific location.................So,here`s my news,for the first time in about a year (honest) ,apart from a half hour with my daughter mentioned last week, I had a whole evening running trains -only the "Southern" part of the system in use at the moment and speeds low and loads light,just in case but all was well,few derailments,mostly my fault( well all really-I built it...)....Had forgotten how soothing the sound of wheels on rail joints is-suspect missisnickinwestwales may be looking at another quiet night in in front of the telly,on her own,fairly soon............Ah - it`s 1:32 am and the rugby club has just started "helping the guests to the door" so I think I`ll finish up here and go and watch the show ( in small communitys,you find your entertainment where you can-sad but true) see you all next time,Jemima,a round for the house please,G`Night All

[passengerfan]

Well another double Crown Royal with water back and a round for the house.
Re question about the CN turbos I personally rode them many times when I lived in Toronto. The first class turbo club dome was always the lead dome between Toronto and Montreal. They were slow accelerating to about 60. From 60 on they accelerated quite rapidly. I don't know what the weight of the Turbos was but do know that a single FPA-4 could pull the entire train when the Turbines were having winter problems. If at least one turbine was operational for hotel power it was not unusual for CN to use a single FPA 4 or FP9A to power the entire train the MLW units were able to operate to schedule while the GMD units would lose about ten minutes between The two largest cities in Canada. The turbos had an extremely comfortable ride and were quite quiet. The previous Rapidos were scheduled for 4:59 minutes between Toronto - Montreal and the turbos were scheduled for 4:30 minutes and never did achieve the 4:00 that was hoped for. When painted in the yellow and blue scheme for Via Rail they were nicknamed the Bic Banana's. Alkways enjoyed every trip on the turbos i took and am truly sarry they are gone. The problems the turbines had in the winter was the fine gritty snow so common to the area damaging the turbine blades. I could never understand this as the same Pratt & Whitney turbines were used in Dehavilland Dash 8 and -9 aircraft as well as numerous helicopters. It was always interesting to be first in line having a turboclub seat and rushing to get one of the seats in the dome behind the engineer who was separated from the Turboclub seats by a plexiglas door. You could look over the engineers shouder and second guess him all the way to Montreal. Although they changed enginners in Kingston both directions. The engineers on the turbo's wore grey suits instead of the usual striped overalls. The meals for turbo club passengers were served airline style from a gally very similar to airlines. Cara was the food service caterer and the meal were comparable with Air Canada first class also catered by Cara. My only complaint was the very abreviated wine list not much imagination and passengers rceived individual bottles that served about a glass and one-half of rather mundane Canadian wines from the Niagara region.
When ever the Turbos had to slow to cross over to the other main it seemed like it took a long time to get back up to track speed. With an FPA-4 in charge the train was back up to track speed much quicker or so it seemed. Never rode the turbo's in anything but turboclub so can not speak for coach seating on trains.

[Anonymous]

Thank you Peter for the much needed remedial course in classification data. Now I will be able to follow references with greater understanding. My round trip from Dublin (Heuston Sta.) to Belfast was probably behind a 071 or 201 while the other "run-outs" were likely EMD JL-8 and EMD 8-645-E . Most of the diesels out of Connolly Sta. were "dogbones" My hotel (North Star) room overlooked the tracks so I didn't miss much action. Dun Laoghaire gave me some pronunciation problems but that is to be expected. Good heavens, look what I did to the spelling! I'll do a print-out of this data in order to appear less a fool when a discussion of U.K., etc. railroading comes around. Let's see...who is behind the bar today? Oh, Lucy could you bring whatever Peter is having and a Crown and soda for me? Thanks dear, you're a credit to Tom's establishment. I'm still amidst custodial tasks, just took a break for a "quicky." My what a stalwart crew this is. Imagine if all "Our" place contributors were operating a club layout? I dare say, we wouldn't accomplish a thing save some great railroading rhetoric and esoteric culinary repartee. Happy rails, Ted.

[CFournier]

Hi this morning,
A strong black cup of engine oil for me!
Boy what a night! I had planned to take Ruth out for a spin but she objected, saing she had plans involving Ted D and a romantic night at the restaurant! But she did fix me up with Annie [:X], you know , the buxum blonde in the dinning room. Wow, I think I made Annie drink a little too much…[:I]She really loved the little midnight ride on my motorcycle and promised we will see each other soon… Guys, from now on, consider Annie taken. “Love is in the air…”[}:)]
Chris

[M636C]

QUOTE: Originally posted by Ted D. Kramer

Thanks for the great input on the Rosslare Nick. I should have done more homework before departing. That sort of railroading is "right up my alley" (no pun intended). Sounds like Rob, passengerfan and earlydiesels had productive days with so much good news; a rarity these days. Lucy, my usual and a round for the guys please. I wish I could "hang" a little longer but domestic chores are nagging me for attention. See there gents, a bachelor's lot isn't all freedom and independence either.

Nick, I may only plead ignorance on some terminology regarding: "1st, rest, std, GUV heating vans, mk-1and mk-2." If you could refer me to a site that offers some detailed data, it would be gratefully accepted. I know you're busy, so I won't ask you to take the time and space for explaining what must be common knowledge for most of "Our" place buddies. Just when I think I have "a handle" on nomenclature, well...the word "ignoramus" comes to mind. Thanks for any "digging deeper" type articles, etc. you may forward. Hope your gig went well and requests weren't too "off-the-wall." I'm afraid the days of "sing me a few bars" for unfamiliar tunes are long gone. When I think of it; just about all of my musical "days" are "long gone."

Chris, as far as I know, the Red Head is "free and clear." Someone did mention her in a previous post, however. If I hear of any complications, I'll let you know. By the way, is it safe to leave your bike in the parking area out back? I've seen any number of colorful characters around and about. One in particular wearing "overalls." Prorbably, just another rail fan hoping for that "perfect shot?" Speaking of "shot," I've procrastinated long enough! Back to the laundering, hoovering, pan handling and if there is any time left, re-wiring after Minnie's (cat) devastating romp through the power harness. Anyone want a charming black and white female (neutered) "Fur Ball"? Nick! Maybe just the the thing for future Asian menu planning? So long, Ted

While Nick is clearing his head, I thought I'd fill in for a while.

The port for Dublin is Dun Laoghaire (pronounced Dunleary)

Mk2 = 64 ft steel air conditioned car (but some without air later imported from UK)
Mk3 = 75 ft steel air conditioned car

The only Mk 1 cars are heating vans, originally with boilers, now diesel generators

(The "Mark" refers to British Rail car types of which CIE/IR/IE and NIR also have many)

1st = first class, cars with nice seats
2nd = second class, cars with hard, fixed bus type seats
rest = restaurant car
GUV = General Utility Van - really a mail or baggage car

Alphabetic Loco Classes

A = MetroVick built six axle boxcab rebuilt with 1500HP EMD 12-645E (only preserved)
B = first version Sulzer boxcabs (long gone)
second version EMD GL-8 end cab (switcher style) 875 HP (nearly gone)
third version EMD JL-8 dog bone (hood with cab at each end) 875 and 1000 HP
C= MetroVick built four axle box cab rebuilt with 1000 HP EMD 8-645E

I don't know what Nick was drinking or smoking but the last photos I got of a C class working was in 1984 (I recently looked at the shots) A couple were sold to NIR in Belfast and I saw one, not working, in 1997 (my last visit) He may be confusing the GL-8 (121 class) and JL-8 (141, 181 classes) which look different but are both B class.

More recent units have only had numbers

071 = JT22CW dog bone six axle 2250 HP EMD
201 = JT42CW boxcab six axle 3000HP EMD

Two of each of those belong to NIR for Dublin-Belfast trains.

Hope this helps

Peter

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the great input on the Rosslare Nick. I should have done more homework before departing. That sort of railroading is "right up my alley" (no pun intended). Sounds like Rob, passengerfan and earlydiesels had productive days with so much good news; a rarity these days. Lucy, my usual and a round for the guys please. I wish I could "hang" a little longer but domestic chores are nagging me for attention. See there gents, a bachelor's lot isn't all freedom and independence either.

Nick, I may only plead ignorance on some terminology regarding: "1st, rest, std, GUV heating vans, mk-1and mk-2." If you could refer me to a site that offers some detailed data, it would be gratefully accepted. I know you're busy, so I won't ask you to take the time and space for explaining what must be common knowledge for most of "Our" place buddies. Just when I think I have "a handle" on nomenclature, well...the word "ignoramus" comes to mind. Thanks for any "digging deeper" type articles, etc. you may forward. Hope your gig went well and requests weren't too "off-the-wall." I'm afraid the days of "sing me a few bars" for unfamiliar tunes are long gone. When I think of it; just about all of my musical "days" are "long gone."

Chris, as far as I know, the Red Head is "free and clear." Someone did mention her in a previous post, however. If I hear of any complications, I'll let you know. By the way, is it safe to leave your bike in the parking area out back? I've seen any number of colorful characters around and about. One in particular wearing "overalls." Prorbably, just another rail fan hoping for that "perfect shot?" Speaking of "shot," I've procrastinated long enough! Back to the laundering, hoovering, pan handling and if there is any time left, re-wiring after Minnie's (cat) devastating romp through the power harness. Anyone want a charming black and white female (neutered) "Fur Ball"? Nick! Maybe just the the thing for future Asian menu planning? So long, Ted

[trolleyboy]

How's everyone tonight,We are doing the thursday fish and chip speacial all you can eat so don't be shy.Passengerfan it's good to see some real money being spent on rail transit.Lets hope 49 other states and Ten provinces and two federal govt's follow suit!Enough crazy political talk though[soapbox] I'm wondering have any of you riden on or recollect the turbo trains late of CN,Via or Amtrac fame or the Northlanders euro Tee train. I've noted that several of these are showing up as new or new and improved models in our minature world out there. I'm just wondering how accurate that they may be?Our museum looks like we have had some good news.Sometime this summer we should star breaking ground on our new carbarn.At last the subway sets and the rest of our outdoor stock will have a warm dry home[tup]Well I'm a bit tired so i think I'll let ruthy close the place down tonight. Talk to you all later. Rob

[passengerfan]

Good Evening everyone Another round for the house and i'll have my usual.
The news for California is even better today it will be $2 billion for the transportation budget. $90 million destined for new highway construction $ 300 million for repairs to existing freeways 600 million to complete highway projects left unfinished such as highway 58 to be completed as four lane diviided in high desert. That leaves 1.110 billion for the railways the already proposed new California and Surfliner cars and the rest is for commuter rail such as ACE and others. They are finally beginning to realize that if they offer good rail service people will ride. And people who commute are waking up to the fact that they sure arrive more relaxed than if they drive. Hope to have a first hand report on the ACE trains later this month.

[nickinwestwales]

Well good evening Lucy and gentlemen all,a round for the house and send a tray of cold ones out to the kitchen with my compliments,Ann & Jemima-thank you for covering for me tonight-I owe you!!.....Just back from weekly band practice,for 2nd week running bass player had to work late so instead of the usual Telecasters I got to play my newly restored Rickenbacker stereo bass again-tonights choice of material tended towards Cream,The Who,Michelle Shocked and a lucky dip of classic Ska,plus a load of weird improv. stuff...strangely compelling,although this may be beer-related....So,Who,what &where?--Ted,will give the menu my complete attention-No further mention of gratuity please,preparing nice food for my pals is the upside of churning out "Prawn Cocktail,Steak`n`Chips & Black Forest Gateau" for endless coach parties,--trust me on this !! Now-Ireland,a country in transition....I could spout off at length here about social conditions,politics etc but in brief,`urban` and `rural` Ireland are 2 very different places.. O.K.-the Rosslare route,much reduced now,used to handle large-scale livestock exports across to Fishguard,near me. When we were there,about three years ago,there were 5 trains each way to Dublin plus 2 on the Waterford branch daily. The Dublin trains had "C" class units with 2 1st,rest,4 stds,GUV heating van,the Waterford service had class"B" with 2 stds & a van-all mk 1`s the dublin train is mk 2`s except for the van, they also run steam specials and still have the turntable in place and hooked up at Rosslare Europort. with what looks like an old loco shed on site other trackage is sparse,just a run-around and long stub siding if memory serves,in former times,there was a huge marshalling yard . This is now the queing area for the car ferry. Next up the line is Rosslare Strand,a little beauty of a station...Single track,approacching from the south,you have a Y-point in front of you,with a pair of flourescent orange semaphore signals showing you the way. The right hand track leads under the up-&-over road bridge to an 8 coach platform with the signal box about half way along. The left side platform is only half as long and the Waterford branch peels off to the left at the end of it.The passing track continues to the end of the Dublin platform which also peels off to the left, and so onto Wexford-called in there on a wet and windy sunday morning looking for tea &sympathy.--most of the town faces out onto the river,so we found ourselves wandering up & down the quay,found a "greasy spoon" ordered up and relaxed.......next thing I know,a G.M singing quietly starts getting louder,splilled out the door-Dublin-Rosslare creeping past at walking pace on what I had assumed were abandoned tracks between the parked cars and the moving traffic. please excuse me if I cut out here,pi**ed as a rat,apologies for drop in standards,nick

[Anonymous]

Hello, all. I'll take one of those Alexander's Ales, please. I thought I was the only one around here with a weakness for redheads! My compliments to everyone who has helped out in Tom's absence. Good job.
Went to the railroad last Saturday and was the engineer on a high school reunion-class of 1943. Some of the men had clothing designating their military duty during WW2. Fitting for VE Day weekend. All of them are heroes in my view. Also had to redo the south bridge on the line. Shifted over the winter. Had a great turnout for help, got a lot done, and the G.M. played chef and everyone ate well. Going to have a tad bit more work for this Saturday. The wife and I are going to ride some freight mileage on a shortline, then, however. Another group we belong to. I'm supposed to take my conductor's uniform, but being as how my new hat has'nt arrived, I may just try to get by wearing my overalls.
I've been bitten by the gardening bug. It all started when we stopped by a new hobby shop in town catering exclusively to garden railroaders. I wanted to drop off some literature for our excursion railroad and got to looking around while the owner answered the phone. She also gave me some beginning garden rr brochures. Just what I need, another hobby!
Well,got to run. Keep up the good dialogue and the beer cold!

[CFournier]

Hello to the regulars.
A cold Rolling Rock for me with Tom's special sandwich of the day. Now guys, any suggestions on wich of the girls I should approach for a night at the movies followed by a midnight run on my motorcycle (usually parked behind Our place near the tracks)?
Are they all taken? I don't want to interfere with any thing going on with the other patrons here. I do like the looks of the redhead ...
Chris

[Anonymous]

Glad to see you're back in the kitchen Nick. Rob an the gals did a superb job during your absence. Yesterday, for lunch, I endulged in the best Reuben in recent memory. The *** was "alive" but subdued with the addition of thin slices of Jonathan Apples, dry red wine and dark brown sugar. Tom must be applauded for his insisting on only the freshest of breads and meats. Nick, I sould be honored if you would cook for Ruth and me at a future date amenable to all parties. I leave the choice of menu in your capable hands...surprise us. I know that Ruthy shares a preference for French cuisine; let that be the only guideline. I shall gladely advance you any amount needed for market expenditures. Please, simply include your gratuity on the check so as to avoid uneccessary, mundane anxieties.

The Rosslare leg somehow escaped my notice. Yes, I would like to be apprised of what I missed along my whimsical intenerary on "The Old Sod." Frankly Nick, there was a noticable "shortness" in socialbilty except in the Cobh, Galway, Dunleghare [sp.?] and Belfast areas. Apprantly being "born in a stable, DOES make one a jack ***" in some parts of Ireland. But please, no more of this, lest we fall to that provencial trap of "hasty generalization." It is true that Irish rail is the "best kept secret" among travelogues and tourist agencies here. And, that is a shame. I was particularly impressed with the speed and efficiency of their system and that "full service" trains are...just that! My hotel was across the street from Connolly Station (mostly electrified commuter trains) while Heuston Station was a cab ride (mostly diesel over-land routes). I demured from "package" tourists groups and travelled independently, entirely "on my own." It may be impossible to capture the "soul" of a Land whilst languishing among your own, don't you think? I'm glad that I made the trip but cannot recommend it.

I had wished to ride the ferry to Wales from Dunleghare [sp.?] but sudden squalls prevented it. I made the best of it by settling in a friendly local pub for lunch before the next train back to Dublin. Perhaps in later postings, I'll drop a few anecdotes in greater detail but for the present; I would cherish another Crown Royal and fresh soda while Ella welcomes "LuLu back in town." Minnie (the cat) very nearly found herself, not in a CAB, but a hearse Call-o-way to the animal shelter (ouch!). G'dafternoon to one and all and Annie, please take a 'round' for the bar out on me. Happy rails, Ted

[nickinwestwales]

Well good evening Ann and gentlemen all,how are we all on this fine day ?-splendid!! Just thought I`d stop in for a quickie before stepping through to the kitchen to cover for the night,looks like Passengerfan was in the chair,thank you kindly,I`ll have a Molsons with you. Well, the delivery never turned up so the specials tonight are:- Chicken Maryland,Sea Bass poached in lime,rum and ginger or Vegetable Biriyani ,Ann will be happy to take your orders. Passengerfan-delighted that you`re getting your trains back!!---Dont know if it will affect the outcome of the bidding battle,but Bombardier closed their largest (I think) works over here about 6 months ago....lack of orders,I believe. Rob,thanks for covering the bar,looks like you`re having that storm belt that the coffee shop crew were talking about,good luck...sounds like a LuLu Ted-Lady Ella is always welcome in any bar that has my custom,-whilst pursuing a musical theme,could Minnie The Moocher have been after your CAB control system......( sorry..) Happened to hear Ruth mention your name earlier,think she may have taken something of a shine to you. The private dining room is usually available at short notice and I would be delighted to cook for you.....On your Irish excursion,did you take the trip down to Rosslare-one of the very few examples of "street running" anywhere in the U.K.....will describe further if any interest. ***,nice to see you back,I found that bottle of Plymouth gin we discussed the other night,also that bottle of Booth`s that I may have mentioned..***?.....***???....Ann,could you call a cab for *** please,he seems to have nodded off .....O.K.,looks like that party of 12 has arrived for pre-dinner drinks,better get through and fire up the stove,chop a lettuce or two......welcome back my friends to the show that never ends,It`s good to have you back-please come inside,come inside.........

[trolleyboy]

Good evening.I'm here till Nick shows up so don't ask for anything but sandwiches or soup I'm not that skilled of a chef.Wr what will you have sir.This past years ARM convention was hosted by the Baltimore museums our guys who went down said that they did one heck of a job on the roof restoration at the old roundhouse.Aparently you can't tell the difference,they are well on their way to finishing the fixes on the exhibits that were damaged in that collapse as well.The guys wre telling me that the Baltimore Streetcar Museum guys were quite freindly and that their operation is getting bigger and better as well.Two good train destinations for anyone travelling to Balt.Nick you will be happy to know that on my way home from work today i say a couple of ONR loco's on the CN today.One of them was one of the SD75's but the other was a GP-38 still in the old lightning bolt scheme.And no before you ask I didn't have my camera with me.They were quite a ways off their home rails likley a power/time trade with CN the 75's were partially paid for by CN so they can request time an millage on them i'm guessing the 38 was just along for the ride. Not too too much to report today other than that oddity.Passengerfan are the Japanese cars a double or single level?I imagine that the Bombardier equipment will be cheaper to purchase but sometimes the Govinator is less than enthused about all things Canadian.Well guys n gals i'm heading back into the pool room let the ladies know if you need anything. Rob

[passengerfan]

Godd Evening All! How about a double Crown Royal with water back and a round for the house.
Here I was worried about where the terminator was going to get the funding for an expanded amtrak California and I only needed to wonder for one day . It was just announced that the Governor has restored 1.8 billion dollars to the states transportation projects. That will look after all of the new Amtrak equipment and the highway projects planned for the next year. Guess that will mean more cars built by Bombardier although their has been talk that Sumitomo a Japanese Company wished to bid on any future Amtrak California cars. The last cars they built were Peninsula commuter service far different than the California cars or the newer Surfliner cars. Just have to wait and see.

[Anonymous]

Good evening my friends. Just came in from the outside and need to wet my whistle. Wind, although hot, has been blowing and it has dried me out. The temporary bar help sure are good and far better looking than our regular guy. Now that I have my martini and a hamburger lets sit and spin a tale or two.

Tonight I will put you asleep with a story of the APTA train from Baltimore to Frederick Maryland. We left Baltimore early in the morning in a MARC train bound for Washington on B&O's Camden line. Scooted around Washington Union Station on the shofly connecting B&O's lCamden line to their line to Point of Rocks. Just before Point of Rocks (we could see the classic station from the train) we branched to the five mile line to Frederick. This is the only track that MARC owns and operates. We arrived in Frederick for a 4 hour layover at 10 AM Sunday. Unfortunately nobody told the town that 1,000 "tourists" were coming to town. Nothing was open. My wife found a coffee shop and planted we ourselves at an outdoor table, sipped coffee, and watch the rest of the tourists wander by. The best part of the trip was the return wherein we went on the original B&O line from Point of Rocks to Baltimore. Most of this line was double track, however there were several sections of single track. I think we were the first passenger train on this line in about 50 years. We did manage to turn heads along the way. This line was very curvey and was like a roller coaster along the South Branch of the Potapsco river. Even though Frederick was not prepared for us it was a fun day.

While at the APTA convention in Baltimore we visited the B&O Museum before the snow collapsed the roof. This is a great museum and well worth visiting.

Well it is time to fill up the glass with another gin and then I will dose off.

Gulp, gulp, snore, snore!

[trolleyboy]

Morning everyone. Ted the term Radial is I suppose a Canadian term.It is a name that was given to intercity electric lines.In the US they would have been refered to as Interurban so the term is really interchangeable.The Museum uses radial in the name because our ROW is the old Toronto Suburban Line that ran Toronto to Guelph,an interesting sidebar is that the museum has now operated longer on this stretch than the TSR did.416 is the car on the Musuem's title page it's a double ender built by the Ottawa car Company in 1912.It was built for the Ontario hydro electric Lines and ran in Toronto on the North yonge radial. TTC operated them on the port credit and weston road lines as well.It was retired along with it's sisters in 1949-50 as they were extra cars once the first subway lines started up. This car is also in the overhaul barn at the monment she's just recieved a new roof and restorations are continuing (needs all new wiring and controller rebuilds)concidering that this car spent 25 years as a house we have brought her back along way she's actually run under her own power at the museum! I hope you do brave the airport and come see us.I think I can hear the CLRV's calling to you. LOL Make sure that if you do get down you let me know so we can squeeze you into the museum as well(I'm sure I''ll have to drag you kicking and screaming)Well off to work I go talk to you all later. Rob

[Anonymous]

Great "theme" photo of a classic S-37 design. Rob, what is the reason for the term "Radial" for the Museum? I guess a better question is, what is a "Radial" Car? The picture on the opening page for the Museum (hcry.org) shows a double ended car with a high arch roof that is remarkably similar to some cars on Kansas City's roster (1940's). K.C., Mo also ran single ended cars favoring these same clean lines. As a kid, I didn't pay attention to the builder's name, more is the pity. I think some of the heavyweights were of St. Louis Car Company's origin.

I will be looking into the logistics for the possiblity of visiting the Toronto area and luxuriating in street R.R.ing Valhalla. I may not be psychologically prepared to meet the rigors of air transport since my last ordeal flying to Dublin, Ireland (via Gatwick). I actually sat down on arriving at that airport and contemplated "scrubbing" the whole mission. I'm glad I didn't as there was some interesting rail travels all over that tiny Country. On my return to Tampa, two weeks later, it was clear that Father Time was "catching-up" to me. The "spirit" is willing but these old bones may not be! I did feel better when I noticed folks many years my junior were "down and out" in airport waiting rooms.

Its lunch time, so I'll order a Reuben w/***, french fries and a couple of Kosher Dill spears, if you please Ruthy. A good ole Molsins Ale should "hit the spot." Then, I need to go home and tweak the G gauge right-of-way outside and clean-up with my B. & D. palm sander. A Scotch Brite pad on the sander should make this labor go a bit easier. Also, a couple of braces need replacing and two more added for better support. The garage HO layout is over-due for a total "refurb" committment also. When it becomes too hot and humid, I'll move all activities inside (air conditioned) and work on kits (rolling stock and structures). My cat, "Minnie the Moocher," will never know how imminent her demise was when she elected to tear out those pretty color coded 18 and 20 gauge wires under the HO layout. "Satan, get thee behind me...and push!"

I guess Tom is munching some goodies in the Buffett Car about now, thinking how grand it is to be away from the Johnny Cash Kareoke crowd. I hope Tom knows the girls are working out very well and the "track gang" is displaying exemplary behavior. Okay, everyone have a g'dafternoon and perhaps we will see youz later this evening, eh?