"OUR" PLACE - SEE NEW THREAD!

[siberianmo]

G'day West Coast S Dave *** - that has a nice ring to it. [swg] I suppose now that you've missed pretty much all of these things, we're going to have to figure out a way to assign some duties to you, just to ensure your presence! TDY - ha! [;)]

About 18 months ago, while in KCity, MO, I saw two honest to goodness GP's in the Santa Fe livery of old - one red and one blue - really did. They were sitting about in the middle of a long string of freights, on a siding, in the yards nearby Kemper Arena. Sure wished that I had my camera. I'm not enough of an aficionado to have been able to tell what precise models they were - but they were GEEPS for sure - maybe 35's.

A few years back, I used to pal around with a guy who was connected to the STB. He told me that with regard to U.S. railroads, there would eventually be only two companies left - one handling north/south traffic and the other east/west. Well, since that time, CN has become a North American monster RR, CP isn't far off, and the U.S. names are disappearing faster than chalk from our pool tables! So, that merger rumor may very well be more than just that .......

Enjoy! And - remember: This Saturday night at 7:30 PM CDST is the Birthday Bash for our friend, Trainnut484 Russell!!

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

Hello Rob Milk shake [?] Are you out of your ever luvin' mind [?] We don't serve those things here - you've gotten us confused with the CS! [tdn] We're a bar, serving hootch and brew. [tup] Okay, Boris go out back and shake the cow! [swg]

Hey - I noticed you began a thread for Trolley Jolleys on this forum. Great! And, of course good luck with it. I posted a message for you - do I get a prize for being your first respondent [?]

Remember: This Saturday night at 7:30 PM CDST is the Birthday Bash for our friend, Trainnut484 Russell!!

See ya! [tup][swg]
Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Anonymous]

Good afternoon Tom et al. Glad to be back. At my age (65) I have lost the ability to outrun a speeding bullet or exploding bomb. Think I will have a strong cup of java. Still fighting a little jet lag. The old body cannot take it as well as it did in my youth. Air travel used to be glamorous 30 years ago as trains were, but now air travel is a big Greyhound with wings. And the service is about the same as on the Greyhound.

Let me continue my dialogue. Reading is 40 miles west of London and the best way to get there is by high speed train from Paddington station. Paddington is not the largest station in London as it only has 8 active tracks. Service is operated by First Great Western which covers the southwest of England and Wales. They offer a first class service. The Heathrow express also operates from Paddington. Except for a small curve upon leaving Paddington the line to Reading is straight as an arrow. Four tracks are in the ROW. Two are used for high speed inter city trains, such as I rode, and the other two are used for the slower speed commuter trains that stop every mile or so. First Great Western runs the trains at 100 miles per hour with the 40 mile trip taking 25 minutes. Reading is their first stop for the trains that go to Cardiff, Swansea or Penzance. I still have a pass from First Great Western that I received while on the DART board that lets me ride free in first class. The ride is very smooth and quiet. They have a copy of The Times at every seat and free coffee and a sweet from the trolley. Second class has to pay for the food and drink. Even got a beer one afternoon on the return ride. The bad thing was that sometimes the trolley would not make it to my seat before we arrived in Reading. As a backup I would get a Cornish pastry and coffee from the kiosk in Paddington. Just showed my pass and they would open the turnstile for me. The normal first class fare is £21.70 each way which at an exchange rate of $1.8 US = £1 equates to about $39 each way. I figure my pass saved the client about $400. Train travel in England is not cheap.

Along the way to Reading you pass the Plasser Railway Equipment Company facilities where several pieces of MOW equipment are in the yard. You also pass the service, inspection, and storage facility for the Eurostar or Chunnel train. I cannot figure out why the Eurostar is yarded here as they operate out of Waterloo station and there is not a direct connection between the yard and Waterloo. Also pass a combination yard for the Heathrow Express and First Great Western's equipment. Did spot several trains from Ed Burkhardt's (sp??) England-Scotland-Wales freight operation. They mainly seemed to be working rock cars, which I assume to be railway ballast. Did see one that had rebars and some coiled steel as cargo. Most of the freight cars are two axle variety, however there were some independant truck four axle gondolas. All of the two axle cars (LGB?) had hook and link couplings. Train length was limited due to the limited strength of this type of coupler. Most of the 4 axle independant truck gondolas had knuckle couplers. (There is hope). I think these were in dedicated unit train service. All of the passenger equipment, except for the permantly coupled train sets, have knuckle couplers. Even with the knuckle couplers they still have the buffers. I assume these take up any slack and give a smoother ride.

All of the 8 tracks leaving Paddington have overhead catenary, however the electrification only goes to Staines where the Heathrow Express cuts off for the airport. The Heathrow Express is electrified into Heathrow airport as there is a 4 mile tunnel under the terminals and diesels would present a pollution problem. My train had a diesel engine on each end and ran in a modified push pull fashion. Other lines radiating from London have third rail electrification. Talk about negative compatability! The only thing they lack is to be blessed (or cursed) with three separate gauges like in Australia.

I was working in Thames Valley Park (TVP), a business complex about 5 miles east of Reading along the line from Paddington. British rail was to build a station at TVP, but it has not come to pass. The train is beginning to slow down when we pass TVP. I was working with British Gas, now called BG Group, at TVP. Other tennants are multi building complexes for Oracle and Microsoft. Since 9-11 security has increased at TVP with TV cameras everywhere and security gates at several locations. TVP provides a free shuttle bus from the rail station in Reading to TVP so getting there is not bad.

Londoners work from 9 AM to 5 PM. I would take a taxi from the hotel to Paddington about 7 AM before the rush hour. The ride at this time would take about 10 minutes. The evening was a different story. I was in rush hour and it would take 30 to 45 minutes to get back to the hotel. The bad thing about the evening commute was that this was in the heat of the day and the black taxis are NOT air conditioned. The double decker buses also are not air conditioned, although some murderer managed to ventilate one on July 7th.

Well I have been talking too long and my coffee has ran out. Tom, could I sneak another cup of JO?

Cheers,
***

[Anonymous]

Tom-

In response to your question about my travels, the trip to England was business for me and plastic abuse for my wife. After a week (this week) in Dallas we are leaving on Saturday for our vacation and train trip on The Ocean. Two weeks before the trip to England I spent a week in Tripoli Libya. I am scheduled to go to Tunisia in mid September and back to England at the end of September. With all of these nice places I think someone at work is trying to get me killed! There is light in the tunnel. I will be going to Calgary in late October for a week. That is not all bad duty there as Banff and Lake Louise are places that I would kill to get to live there.

***

***

[siberianmo]

Howdy ***[C):-)] Good to see that you're back and talking about our favorite subject - classic trains! [tup]

Emails received and replied to. Airline reservations taken care of - now it's a matter of finding a hotel with breakfast and airport limo. Really appreciate your help! For the rest of you guys - sorry - don't mean to cut you out of the conversation. I'm taking a trip down to Dallas - that's TEXAS for those of you who might not KNOW [swg] - to see those former VIA Rail RDC's that now operate with DART and the Trinity line (is that correct, ***[?]) Anyway, it'll be a chance to meet one of the regulars from "Our" Place and of course, do what I love to do - ride trains! [yeah] More info as the itinerary falls into place.

That accounting you've given of the trains is worth at least a round on me! Boris ring the bell! C'mon, *** there's a great gin & tonic with your name on it - or something in the JO, perhaps [?]

Good job! Keep this up, and we'll have no choice but to consider you for a more elevated status as a regular around here. Now, if I could only get you to read the SUMMARIES! [:-,]

If you are able, we have yet another Birthday Bash coming up this Saturday at 7:30 PM for our friend, Trainnut484 Russell Hope you can make it! [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Trainnut484]

Afternoon all again [:D]. I'll have a cold draft. It's FINALLY RAINING, and the heat wave here in KC has been broken [tup][yeah]

Tom, the yard where you saw the GEEPS was BN's exFrisco yard (I think) now BNSF. The place where I meet with my Saturday morning breakfast bunch is not far from there. Doc's Caboose (LHS) is closeby too where we traverse to after breakfast.

Rob, yes I did find your keys and left them with Leon. Hopefully he didn't do any moonlight switching last night [alien]

Dave, those old GP30s can keep on going and going. They're used primarily in local or yard service.

Ted, leave the tp home [:p][:o)]

mmmmm that draft went down cold and smooth. I'll have another please

Russell

[West Coast S]

For the record I will attending the events this coming Saturday Tom. I still can't recall with certain clarity the events of the last bash for all is blank after consuming that second quart of Johnny Walker Black Label[8D]

Theodorebear are you aware that the 2929 powered the final steam powered revenue passenger train westbound to Los Angeles on the overflow mail in 1952? Sister 2928 ran the final eastbound overflow train. 2929 was also featured on a 1951 Railway Club Of Southern California excursion from LA to Barstow and return and was the last operable steam engine retained at Redondo Jct. for passenger helper service out of LAUPT. She deserves to run again. Since they were impressed by the performance of the 3751,Perhaps the Grand Canyon Railway can be persuaded to restore the 3759 to service. Anyone up for AT&SF triple headed steam?


Well, i'm off to partake in the sandwich fixings and see what' s on draft this afternoon.

Until later

Dave

[siberianmo]

G'day Trainnut484 Russell I think I'd make a trip to KCity just to join in on the brunch and the interlude at Doc's Caboose - sounds like my kinda thing to do! [swg]

Do you recall seeing those GEEPS I mentioned [?] I checked out the times we were out that way, and it was definitely December of 2004 when we saw 'em. Really got my attention, for it has been years since I've seen that livery on anything other than model trains.

We had 103 on Sunday, 101 yesterday, and high 90's today. Cold front supposed to be here by late afternoon - c'mon rain! I just cannot handle the heat - and that's that! [tdn] I'm sitting here with my frosty cold half litre glass from the Golden OX (Boulevard Brewing Co.) and those Coors Lights are going down really well! [tup] The OX is a place I've been frequenting since 1977 - love it. Oh, it's changed alot over the years, but who or what hasn't [?] The Prime Rib is the best I've ever had - you know, once upon a time (and this ain't a fairy tale) you could order any size cut you wanted - and then watch 'em cook it. It was a great place to go - still is, but somewhat chilled out from my first decade or so of visits. Anyway, I liked the beer glasses, so I bought a half dozen from the bartender. He probably thinks to this day, who was that nut case who bought the glasses![?] Now, everyone knows! No secrets around here ........ [swg]

See ya!
Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

G'day West Coast S Dave The great thing about a cyber bar 'n grill, is one can consume what one always thought they'd like to, but never quite made it to that point! [swg] Been there, done that a few times in my younger days, mate! [tup] What's on draught[?] Pick a brew - we've got it! Just have to be careful with Boris tapping those kegs. When I first taught him how, he couldn't get used to the idea of first picking up the keg, shaking it, then punching a hole in it with his paw fist. He's a strange one, indeed - wonder where in the world Nick found him[?] Okay - good deal - you're set for Saturday night - which is really late afternoon for you left coast guys! [swg]

Enjoy! [tup][;)]
Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Anonymous]

G'evening everyone, *** that was an excellent synopsis of your travels in and around London Town. The name Brunel rings a ffamiliar bell. ***, is this the same person who built the super ship which eventually laid the Trans Atlantic Cable? I would think a "cold chill" ran up your spine after learning of the bombings. The Brits are taking action rather than languishing in an endless "witch hunt" committee (photo ops). Let us hope they meet with more success than their "American Cousins."[soapbox]

Saturday, 7:30 pm Central (8:30 Eastern, 6:30 Mtn., 5:30 Pacific), Russell will be celebrating his "B-Day Bash" here at "Our" Place. I think the holes in the walls will be patched and painted by then.[^] Please make a note of it 'cause it will be a great time "had by all."[tup] Good ole American fare that day: B.B.Q. spare ribs, sliced Beef and beans (K.C. Masterpiece sauce), corn on the cob, Fries, cole slaw and P.salad.[dinner] Rolaids, Tums and Alka Seltzer available on request. If you miss it, shame on "yo hide."[swg]

Just received the August Model R.R. News and thought I'd pass on a few "S" guage URL's: www.the-n-arch.com; www.trainstuffllc.com; www.p-b-l.com; Jerry Wilson [e-mail]; www.pinecanyonscalemodels.com; www.tin-soldier.com. There is a good review of the HO Bdwy Ltd's N & W streamlined 4-8-4. Dave thanks for the additional input on #2929 and #3759, its always a kick to hear the fate of these "classics."[tup] Tom I remember the "Original" Golden Ox down in the West Bottoms. Lot's of cattle deals were "done" there. If you could get passed the barnyard aroma, you had the best steak south of the John Hancock (Chicago). Okay, its great to see the Joint bar and grill doing so well. Hope those among "the missing" are okay and will return very soon.[:D] So long, Ted

[siberianmo]

Evenin' Ted
Weather report: Storm front approaching - looks like the Century temps will be leaving - and rather quickly! [yeah]

Nice menu for the Birthday Bash for Trainnut484 Russell this Saturday nite at 7:30 PM CDST (Central Time} Phew! [swg]

I'm going to rely upon the regulars to make this event happen as I'll be away from the keyboard for most of the evening. So, c'mon you guys - especially the Order of the Permanent Stools you are needed! [tup]

Unless I'm out in left field on this, my impression has been that the present day site for the Golden Ox is the same as it's been since the stockyards were there. In fact, I recall those yards ...... not quite as extensive, but they (or some) remained in the 70's. It's one of our favorite places to go and we've dined there on consecutive nights more than once ..... [tup] Anyway, the location is directly across the parking lot from Kemper Arena - where we used to watch the now defunct IHL KC Blades and an assortment of other sports teams - long gone. KCity is really a great place to visit.

Enjoy the evening! [tup] [;)]
Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Trainnut484]

Evening all. I'll have my usual, Thanks. It's nice and cool outside. Overnight low is supposed to be in the 50s. That'll give the A/C a well deserved break.

Thanks Dave for making your R.S.V.P. [:)]

Ted, my mouth is already watering [dinner]. What about cake and ice cream?? The Golden Ox is indeed in the Bottoms across from Kemper. At one time they closed down (for what reason I can't remember). I think they've reopened.

Tom, [:0] you're not going to make it Saturday night[?] It's alright though. You're welcome to join us for Saturday morning breakfast, and the trek down to Doc's afterwards. Sorry he doesn't carry S guage. His website is www.docscaboose.com Also you have mail.

My thirst still hasn't been quenched. Another one for me please, and put a round on the house on me.

Russell

[trolleyboy]

Good evening gentlemen and [alien]Boris. Tom Thank-you for being poster #1 on the new thread, barnda's found it already as well and I beleave Gunns too. Your prize is me doing the dishes left over from Chris's party and if you check with Heather you know how much I love that job. Oh and also I guess I didn't make it clear earlier . It was a milkshake with a shot or two of kalua in it, a frozen brown cow if you will.[swg] I gave Leon the recipe.That was the cost to have my switch keys returned. thanks for finding them BTW Russell.Russell I'm going to miss your shindig as well unfortunatley I'm going to be up in the north country doing some camping( needs to be done once a year just like Boris's bath ) Ted I've sent you 20 or so pounds of canadian back bacon for the party hope it is of some use for you.dave GOP30's they are a favourite of mine, that hump backed [alien] look. If memory serves didn't BN rebuild the powered ones to GP38-2 standars a couple of years back?I only got to personally see a CDN GP30 once 5001 leading a local frieght in Welland ontario that was back in the 80's. As you know only two units of that type were sold in Canada CPR 8500,8501 later renumbered to 5000,5001. Even their GP35 follow ons weren't that popular up here CN bought two and 24 were picked up by CP numbered in order right after the two 30's. This is a small request. More so for my museum thread but it would work here as well.I'm wondering if the posters of pictures could try to makle the posted shots as small a jpg as possible.We with the old PC's can't download them very well. I'm not trying to ***, this is just a small favour for the technologically challenged. thanks so much

[siberianmo]

WEDNESDAY’s SUMMARY of RECENT POSTS (edited)

Mid week at ”Our” Place and what better place to spend the morning at[?] Check out the fixin’s from The Mentor Village Bakery along with the light breakfast menu and hot coffee, just waitin’ for ya! [yeah] Life is good – the heat wave has ended in these parts – in the upper 60’s at the moment. Ahhhhhhh! [swg]

Birthday Bash for Trainnut484 Russell is this Saturday at 7:30 PM CDST (Central time) Good job, Boris and Leon I knew if anyone could get it out of him, you guys could! [swg]

SUMMARY time again… as always, limited smilies, graphics and pix …..

QUOTE: coalminer3
Posted: 26 July 2005, 10:31:29

Good Morning All: Fill the thermos - I left a roll of quarters for the jukebox, too. We had some lovely weather yesterday - high temperatures with accompanying humidity followed by a violent windstorm in the early evening which knocked out our power. Electricity has been restored, but it's still hot and muggy.

I believe it's time to head north; may be a bit cooler. Let's roll back the tape to 1942, We'll take NYC 207 out of Detroit at 11:00 p.m. with an 8:10 arrival at Mackinaw City the next morning. 207 has a 10 section/drawing room car and a coach from Detoit to Mackinaw City. That's not a Pullman; it's a battleship.

The connecting services off of this train are most interesting. 207 misses a connection to DSS&A train 1 at Mackinaw City, but if you're willing to stay the night, you can leave out at 7:45 a.m. with a 9:45 a.m. arrival at Trout Lake (xpt Sunday) where you can connect to M St P and SSM train 8 to Sault Ste Marie or M St P and SSM train 87 (xpt Sunday) to Gladstone.

For the truly adventerous, NYC 207 connects in the middle of the night with D&M train 1 at Bay City. D&M1 operates to Alpena. And that, unless the maps are wrong is about as "fur north" as a traveler could get on the NYC.

Have a good day.

work safe

QUOTE: siberianmo
Posted: 26 July 2005, 12:24:49

G'day coalminer 3 Thanx for the quarters - Boris you know where they go.

Lots of things have been happening around here since your last visit - and of course we had another Birthday Bash for Chris last night ...... sorry you missed it.

By the by, it seems that we're never going to know you by any other name other than your cyber handle. No clues in your cyber profile either. Respect your privacy and won't bug you again about it.

Thanx for the fantasy itinerary - always enjoy those!

See ya!
Tom

QUOTE: Trainnut484
Posted: 26 July 2005, 12:54:33

Afternoon all . I'm taking a short break, so a tall Coke will do fine.

Gunns- I'm sorry to hear about your car window accident. Glad you're fine. I had a similar instance on a highway where some in front of me didn't tie down his Maytag washer box, and it fell out of his truck bed onto the highway. I slammed on the brakes, and hit the box. Luckily it was empty. My wife was with me and was terrified. We had some...ahem...words for the guy.

OHHHHKAAYYYY. Tom, 7:30pm CENTRAL time Saturday night will do fine for me. If anybody can't make it, I'll understand.

Whuuups. Time to get my keister on the move. Take care,

Russell

QUOTE: West Coast S
Posted: 26 July 2005, 12:58:59

Top of the day Tom and the gang, I feel like a smuck missing Chris's BD shindig. So, without further ado, a happy belated [bday]. The US Government ordered me on TDY, internet time is spotty at best when i'm on the road. Good coffee this morning by the way.

On my way back to LA I spent a couple of hours in the searing heat at Kingman Cut in AZ, to my surprise I observed a eastbound general freight with 6 patched ex SF GP-30s for power, amazing I wasn't aware they were still any in service. This is the first set i've seen in mainline service since 1984, BNSF must need locomotives badly, a pleasent change from the usual gut wrenching BNSF Heritage colors I must say.

I'm not confirming this tidbit , but some info came my way regarding possible mergers. Last week the Surface Transportation Board five year moritorium on mergers expired. Will we be seeing a UP/NS + BNSF/CP merger in the near future? The ultimate future of the CSX and KCS is unknown.

Well, duty calls. Off to another day in the salt mines

Dave

QUOTE: trolleyboy
Posted: 26 July 2005, 13:10:14

A quick good afternoon to everyone.Tom if you don't mind I think I'll just do a milkshake today ( stomaches still rcovering from the party ) Coalminer The only way further north on the NYC was to get yourself to Buffalo, then you could meet up with the TH&B train and head up into Ontario. waterford My home town of Brantford , Hamilton and on into Toronto. Or you could change trains in the falls and head up the Caso into welland and on into tobacco country St Thomas. From there you could get electric rail service on the LE&N to Kitchener waterloo or the other way to Port Dover and the beaches. This is the line I sort of dug up that Ted was on about a couple of Days ago. Of coarse if you do the St Thomas route you could catch a C&O Train back ( CSX still uses part of this old Pere marquette line ) Well gents just a quick run through I'll try to pop back in later.Oh BTW Russell did you find my switch keys last nigth I may have left them on the jukebox? Have a good evening gentlemen and Boris Rob

QUOTE: siberianmo
Posted: 26 July 2005, 14:13:21

Hi trainnut484 Russell Okaaaaaaay - finally! There must be a higher power - for we now know that the next Birthday Bash is this coming Saturday evening at 7:30 PM, CDST - that's CENTRAL TIME for anyone out there who is easily confused!

So, Ted Manager and Interim Chief Chef looks like you have work to do!

Those items falling out of or off of vehicles are killers, no doubt. One of my experiences was a wheel w/mounted tire, breaking loose up ahead and came rolling right towards me in the center lane of a crowded highway - no where to go. This thing suddenly rose up in the air, bounced on the roof of my car, and continued on behind me. Must've hit something on the pavement to cause it to fly like that ...... Man, nerves were working overtime that day. Sure glad that our friend Gunns Kevin avoided injury.

Take it slow ......
Tom

QUOTE: siberianmo
Posted: 26 July 2005, 14:24:02

G'day West Coast S Dave *** - that has a nice ring to it. I suppose now that you've missed pretty much all of these things, we're going to have to figure out a way to assign some duties to you, just to ensure your presence! TDY - ha!

About 18 months ago, while in KCity, MO, I saw two honest to goodness GP's in the Santa Fe livery of old - one red and one blue - really did. They were sitting about in the middle of a long string of freights, on a siding, in the yards nearby Kemper Arena. Sure wished that I had my camera. I'm not enough of an aficionado to have been able to tell what precise models they were - but they were GEEPS for sure - maybe 35's.

A few years back, I used to pal around with a guy who was connected to the STB. He told me that with regard to U.S. railroads, there would eventually be only two companies left - one handling north/south traffic and the other east/west. Well, since that time, CN has become a North American monster RR, CP isn't far off, and the U.S. names are disappearing faster than chalk from our pool tables! So, that merger rumor may very well be more than just that .......

Enjoy! And - remember: This Saturday night at 7:30 PM CDST is the Birthday Bash for our friend, Trainnut484 Russell!!

Tom

QUOTE: siberianmo
Posted: 26 July 2005, 14:30:35

Hello Rob Milk shake [?]Are you out of your ever luvin' mind [?]We don't serve those things here - you've gotten us confused with the CS! We're a bar, serving hootch and brew. Okay, Boris go out back and shake the cow!

Hey - I noticed you began a thread for Trolley Jolleys on this forum. Great! And, of course good luck with it. I posted a message for you - do I get a prize for being your first respondent [?]

Remember: This Saturday night at 7:30 PM CDST is the Birthday Bash for our friend, Trainnut484 Russell!!

See ya!
Tom

QUOTE: wrwatkins
Posted: 26 July 2005, 15:15:36
Good afternoon Tom et al. Glad to be back. At my age (65) I have lost the ability to outrun a speeding bullet or exploding bomb. Think I will have a strong cup of java. Still fighting a little jet lag. The old body cannot take it as well as it did in my youth. Air travel used to be glamorous 30 years ago as trains were, but now air travel is a big Greyhound with wings. And the service is about the same as on the Greyhound.

Let me continue my dialogue. Reading is 40 miles west of London and the best way to get there is by high speed train from Paddington station. Paddington is not the largest station in London as it only has 8 active tracks. Service is operated by First Great Western which covers the southwest of England and Wales. They offer a first class service. The Heathrow express also operates from Paddington. Except for a small curve upon leaving Paddington the line to Reading is straight as an arrow. Four tracks are in the ROW. Two are used for high speed inter city trains, such as I rode, and the other two are used for the slower speed commuter trains that stop every mile or so. First Great Western runs the trains at 100 miles per hour with the 40 mile trip taking 25 minutes. Reading is their first stop for the trains that go to Cardiff, Swansea or Penzance. I still have a pass from First Great Western that I received while on the DART board that lets me ride free in first class. The ride is very smooth and quiet. They have a copy of The Times at every seat and free coffee and a sweet from the trolley. Second class has to pay for the food and drink. Even got a beer one afternoon on the return ride. The bad thing was that sometimes the trolley would not make it to my seat before we arrived in Reading. As a backup I would get a Cornish pastry and coffee from the kiosk in Paddington. Just showed my pass and they would open the turnstile for me. The normal first class fare is £21.70 each way which at an exchange rate of $1.8 US = £1 equates to about $39 each way. I figure my pass saved the client about $400. Train travel in England is not cheap.

Along the way to Reading you pass the Plasser Railway Equipment Company facilities where several pieces of MOW equipment are in the yard. You also pass the service, inspection, and storage facility for the Eurostar or Chunnel train. I cannot figure out why the Eurostar is yarded here as they operate out of Waterloo station and there is not a direct connection between the yard and Waterloo. Also pass a combination yard for the Heathrow Express and First Great Western's equipment. Did spot several trains from Ed Burkhardt's (sp??) England-Scotland-Wales freight operation. They mainly seemed to be working rock cars, which I assume to be railway ballast. Did see one that had rebars and some coiled steel as cargo. Most of the freight cars are two axle variety, however there were some independant truck four axle gondolas. All of the two axle cars (LGB?) had hook and link couplings. Train length was limited due to the limited strength of this type of coupler. Most of the 4 axle independant truck gondolas had knuckle couplers. (There is hope). I think these were in dedicated unit train service. All of the passenger equipment, except for the permantly coupled train sets, have knuckle couplers. Even with the knuckle couplers they still have the buffers. I assume these take up any slack and give a smoother ride.

All of the 8 tracks leaving Paddington have overhead catenary, however the electrification only goes to Staines where the Heathrow Express cuts off for the airport. The Heathrow Express is electrified into Heathrow airport as there is a 4 mile tunnel under the terminals and diesels would present a pollution problem. My train had a diesel engine on each end and ran in a modified push pull fashion. Other lines radiating from London have third rail electrification. Talk about negative compatability! The only thing they lack is to be blessed (or cursed) with three separate gauges like in Australia.

I was working in Thames Valley Park (TVP), a business complex about 5 miles east of Reading along the line from Paddington. British rail was to build a station at TVP, but it has not come to pass. The train is beginning to slow down when we pass TVP. I was working with British Gas, now called BG Group, at TVP. Other tennants are multi building complexes for Oracle and Microsoft. Since 9-11 security has increased at TVP with TV cameras everywhere and security gates at several locations. TVP provides a free shuttle bus from the rail station in Reading to TVP so getting there is not bad.

Londoners work from 9 AM to 5 PM. I would take a taxi from the hotel to Paddington about 7 AM before the rush hour. The ride at this time would take about 10 minutes. The evening was a different story. I was in rush hour and it would take 30 to 45 minutes to get back to the hotel. The bad thing about the evening commute was that this was in the heat of the day and the black taxis are NOT air conditioned. The double decker buses also are not air conditioned, although some murderer managed to ventilate one on July 7th.

Well I have been talking too long and my coffee has ran out. Tom, could I sneak another cup of JO?

Cheers,
***

QUOTE: wrwatkins
Posted: 26 July 2005, 15:36:49

Tom-

In response to your question about my travels, the trip to England was business for me and plastic abuse for my wife. After a week (this week) in Dallas we are leaving on Saturday for our vacation and train trip on The Ocean. Two weeks before the trip to England I spent a week in Tripoli Libya. I am scheduled to go to Tunisia in mid September and back to England at the end of September. With all of these nice places I think someone at work is trying to get me killed! There is light in the tunnel. I will be going to Calgary in late October for a week. That is not all bad duty there as Banff and Lake Louise are places that I would kill to get to live there.

***

QUOTE: siberianmo
Posted: 26 July 2005, 15:40:57

Howdy *** Good to see that you're back and talking about our favorite subject - classic trains!

Emails received and replied to. Airline reservations taken care of - now it's a matter of finding a hotel with breakfast and airport limo. Really appreciate your help! For the rest of you guys - sorry - don't mean to cut you out of the conversation. I'm taking a trip down to Dallas - that's TEXAS for those of you who might not KNOW - to see those former VIA Rail RDC's that now operate with DART and the Trinity line (is that correct, ***[?]) Anyway, it'll be a chance to meet one of the regulars from "Our" Place and of course, do what I love to do - ride trains! [yeah]More info as the itinerary falls into place.

That accounting you've given of the trains is worth at least a round on me! Boris ring the bell! C'mon, *** there's a great gin & tonic with your name on it - or something in the JO, perhaps [?]

Good job! Keep this up, and we'll have no choice but to consider you for a more elevated status as a regular around here. Now, if I could only get you to read the SUMMARIES!

If you are able, we have yet another Birthday Bash coming up this Saturday at 7:30 PM for our friend, Trainnut484 Russell Hope you can make it!

Tom

QUOTE: Trainnut484
Posted: 26 July 2005, 15:42:34

Afternoon all again . I'll have a cold draft. It's FINALLY RAINING, and the heat wave here in KC has been broken

Tom, the yard where you saw the GEEPS was BN's exFrisco yard (I think) now BNSF. The place where I meet with my Saturday morning breakfast bunch is not far from there. Doc's Caboose (LHS) is closeby too where we traverse to after breakfast.

Rob, yes I did find your keys and left them with Leon. Hopefully he didn't do any moonlight switching last night

Dave, those old GP30s can keep on going and going. They're used primarily in local or yard service.

Ted, leave the tp home

mmmmm that draft went down cold and smooth. I'll have another please

Russell

QUOTE: West Coast S
Posted: 26 July 2005, 15:55:10

For the record I will attending the events this coming Saturday Tom. I still can't recall with certain clarity the events of the last bash for all is blank after consuming that second quart of Johnny Walker Black Label

Theodorebear are you aware that the 2929 powered the final steam powered revenue passenger train westbound to Los Angeles on the overflow mail in 1952? Sister 2928 ran the final eastbound overflow train. 2929 was also featured on a 1951 Railway Club Of Southern California excursion from LA to Barstow and return and was the last operable steam engine retained at Redondo Jct. for passenger helper service out of LAUPT. She deserves to run again. Since they were impressed by the performance of the 3751,Perhaps the Grand Canyon Railway can be persuaded to restore the 3759 to service. Anyone up for AT&SF triple headed steam?


Well, i'm off to partake in the sandwich fixings and see what' s on draft this afternoon.

Until later

Dave

QUOTE: siberianmo
Posted: 26 July 2005, 15:55:36

G'day Trainnut484 Russell I think I'd make a trip to KCity just to join in on the brunch and the interlude at Doc's Caboose - sounds like my kinda thing to do!

Do you recall seeing those GEEPS I mentioned [?]I checked out the times we were out that way, and it was definitely December of 2004 when we saw 'em. Really got my attention, for it has been years since I've seen that livery on anything other than model trains.

We had 103 on Sunday, 101 yesterday, and high 90's today. Cold front supposed to be here by late afternoon - c'mon rain! I just cannot handle the heat - and that's that! I'm sitting here with my frosty cold half litre glass from the Golden OX (Boulevard Brewing Co.) and those Coors Lights are going down really well! The OX is a place I've been frequenting since 1977 - love it. Oh, it's changed alot over the years, but who or what hasn't [?] The Prime Rib is the best I've ever had - you know, once upon a time (and this ain't a fairy tale) you could order any size cut you wanted - and then watch 'em cook it. It was a great place to go - still is, but somewhat chilled out from my first decade or so of visits. Anyway, I liked the beer glasses, so I bought a half dozen from the bartender. He probably thinks to this day, who was that nut case who bought the glasses![?] Now, everyone knows! No secrets around here ........

See ya!
Tom

QUOTE: siberianmo
Posted: 26 July 2005, 16:03:01

G'day West Coast S Dave The great thing about a cyber bar 'n grill, is one can consume what one always thought they'd like to, but never quite made it to that point! Been there, done that a few times in my younger days, mate! What's on draught[?] Pick a brew - we've got it! Just have to be careful with Boris tapping those kegs. When I first taught him how, he couldn't get used to the idea of first picking up the keg, shaking it, then punching a hole in it with his paw fist. He's a strange one, indeed - wonder where in the world Nick found him[?] Okay - good deal - you're set for Saturday night - which is really late afternoon for you left coast guys!

Enjoy!
Tom

QUOTE: Theodorebear
Posted: 26 July 2005, 18:59:28

G'evening everyone, *** that was an excellent synopsis of your travels in and around London Town. The name Brunel rings a ffamiliar bell. ***, is this the same person who built the super ship which eventually laid the Trans Atlantic Cable? I would think a "cold chill" ran up your spine after learning of the bombings. The Brits are taking action rather than languishing in an endless "witch hunt" committee (photo ops). Let us hope they meet with more success than their "American Cousins."

Saturday, 7:30 pm Central (8:30 Eastern, 6:30 Mtn., 5:30 Pacific), Russell will be celebrating his "B-Day Bash" here at "Our" Place. I think the holes in the walls will be patched and painted by then. Please make a note of it 'cause it will be a great time "had by all." Good ole American fare that day: B.B.Q. spare ribs, sliced Beef and beans (K.C. Masterpiece sauce), corn on the cob, Fries, cole slaw and P.salad. Rolaids, Tums and Alka Seltzer available on request. If you miss it, shame on "yo hide."

Just received the August Model R.R. News and thought I'd pass on a few "S" guage URL's: www.the-n-arch.com; www.trainstuffllc.com; www.p-b-l.com; Jerry Wilson [e-mail]; www.pinecanyonscalemodels.com; www.tin-soldier.com. There is a good review of the HO Bdwy Ltd's N & W streamlined 4-8-4. Dave thanks for the additional input on #2929 and #3759, its always a kick to hear the fate of these "classics." Tom I remember the "Original" Golden Ox down in the West Bottoms. Lot's of cattle deals were "done" there. If you could get passed the barnyard aroma, you had the best steak south of the John Hancock (Chicago). Okay, its great to see the Joint bar and grill doing so well. Hope those among "the missing" are okay and will return very soon. So long, Ted

QUOTE: siberianmo
Posted: 26 July 2005, 19:18:08

Evenin' Ted
Weather report: Storm front approaching - looks like the Century temps will be leaving - and rather quickly! [yeah]

Nice menu for the Birthday Bash for Trainnut484 Russell this Saturday nite at 7:30 PM CDST (Central Time) Phew!

I'm going to rely upon the regulars to make this event happen as I'll be away from the keyboard for most of the evening. So, c'mon you guys - especially the Order of the Permanent Stools you are needed!

Unless I'm out in left field on this, my impression has been that the present day site for the Golden Ox is the same as it's been since the stockyards were there. In fact, I recall those yards ...... not quite as extensive, but they (or some) remained in the 70's. It's one of our favorite places to go and we've dined there on consecutive nights more than once ..... Anyway, the location is directly across the parking lot from Kemper Arena - where we used to watch the now defunct IHL KC Blades and an assortment of other sports teams - long gone. KCity is really a great place to visit.

Enjoy the evening!
Tom

QUOTE: Trainnut484
Posted: 26 Jul 2005, 20:17:22

Evening all. I'll have my usual, Thanks. It's nice and cool outside. Overnight low is supposed to be in the 50s. That'll give the A/C a well deserved break.

Thanks Dave for making your R.S.V.P.

Ted, my mouth is already watering . What about cake and ice cream?? The Golden Ox is indeed in the Bottoms across from Kemper. At one time they closed down (for what reason I can't remember). I think they've reopened.

Tom, you're not going to make it Saturday night[?] It's alright though. You're welcome to join us for Saturday morning breakfast, and the trek down to Doc's afterwards. Sorry he doesn't carry S gauge. His website is www.docscaboose.com Also you have mail.

My thirst still hasn't been quenched. Another one for me please, and put a round on the house on me.

Hi Russell
Weather report ‘round here is COMFORTABLE at last!! [yeah]

I’ll be around for your Birthday, but before and after the appointed time. Just worked out that this particular Saturday night is our night out. Need to do that every now ‘n then, eh[?] [swg]

Model trains in this house feature HO first – S gauge second and the O gauge Lionel Express shelf system third. Forgot – LGB G gauge at Christmas! Take your pick …. In all four, I’m saturated insofar as rolling stock and track is concerned. My major drawback is I build layouts with no chance for expansion! At my age, I plan for NOW, tomorrow will take care of itself. [swg]
Tom[4:-)] [oX)]

QUOTE: trolleyboy
Posted: 26 Jul 2005, 23:36:10

Good evening gentlemen and Boris. Tom Thank-you for being poster #1 on the new thread, barnda's found it already as well and I beleave Gunns too. Your prize is me doing the dishes left over from Chris's party and if you check with Heather you know how much I love that job. Oh and also I guess I didn't make it clear earlier . It was a milkshake with a shot or two of kalua in it, a frozen brown cow if you will. I gave Leon the recipe.That was the cost to have my switch keys returned. thanks for finding them BTW Russell.Russell I'm going to miss your shindig as well unfortunatley I'm going to be up in the north country doing some camping( needs to be done once a year just like Boris's bath ) Ted I've sent you 20 or so pounds of canadian back bacon for the party hope it is of some use for you.dave GOP30's they are a favourite of mine, that hump backed look. If memory serves didn't BN rebuild the powered ones to GP38-2 standars a couple of years back?I only got to personally see a CDN GP30 once 5001 leading a local frieght in Welland ontario that was back in the 80's. As you know only two units of that type were sold in Canada CPR 8500,8501 later renumbered to 5000,5001. Even their GP35 follow ons weren't that popular up here CN bought two and 24 were picked up by CP numbered in order right after the two 30's.

This is a small request. More so for my museum thread but it would work here as well.I'm wondering if the posters of pictures could try to makle the posted shots as small a jpg as possible.We with the old PC's can't download them very well. I'm not trying to ***, this is just a small favour for the technologically challenged. thanks so much

Okay – you’re still in good Graces ‘round here – generic milkshakes, no way – a bit of hootch in ‘em, awwwwwwwright! [swg]

Regarding the Birthday Bash for Trainnut484 Russell – who will be 34 by the way – we can get our [bday] wishes out earlier. I’ll be leaving home in early evening, so I’ll be online a couple of hours before the event begins!

Pix posting has always been problematic with these forums – many guys just don’t get it. Pretty much across the board with reading before posting … kinda like walking into a room full of people, going over to a group and joining in without so much as a “Howdy do.” Good luck!

Tom[4:-)] [oX)]

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

[siberianmo]

All of our regulars know about the Birthday Watch List .... however, it needs to be posted repeatedly, just as a reminder regarding who is coming up next for the Birthday Bash ......

2005 BIRTHDAY WATCH LIST (rev. July 27th):

February 2nd (Kevin – 49)
March 5th (Nick – 45)
April 18 (Al - 63)
May 18th (Tom - 67)
May 27th (Dave - 46)
June 24th (Dan - 43)
July 15th (*** – 65)
July 25th (Chris - 51)
July 30th (Russell – 34) Next up!
August 16th (Ted - 67) Pick the time!!
September 8th (Rob - 34)

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

Tom

NOTE for all: Check the SUMMARIES

[coalminer3]

Good Morning All: Coffee and on my way...enjoyed trip to opthamologist this a.m. Everything checked out O.K. so we we're good to go a little longer. Weather report here is more of the same; heat and humidity. Wish I were on that train to northern Michigan. I had somebody ask me what the temperature was underground. It's usually 52-55 degreees here, damp, and basically the same winter and summer.

Here's something to get our readers up and going. From the posts, it seems that we have a wide range of rrs of interest to our vistitors. Which rr(s) got you interested in trains?

There were four where I grew up; Boston and Albany, Central Vermont, New Haven, and Boston and Maine. These are not in any rank order.

By the way, if any of you are still looking for RDC (and lots of classic) material, Google Friends of Bedford Depot, and enjoy. The site also has a lot of information abt. 2-foot gauge rrs in that part of the world. This is an interesting group which is doing a lot of preservation/restoration work. Some of the color photos are fascinating; I relived a lot of my childhood viewing them.

We'll close with a bit of recommended reading. It's a new book on the SP titled The Sunset Route; a most interesting take which undoes a lot of the mythology surrounding the SP.

work safe

[Anonymous]

Hi everybody, A Beefeater's Gin and Tonic w/a twist, if you please. My Nephew is in town and here tomorrow. Today, is "cleaning day!"[tdn] [Aside] Tom, sorta like an I.G. Inspection.[xx(] That panic sort of "tidying up" is when you can't find anything for 2 weeks after the visit.[:(!] SOOoo, I can't stay long, I'm on a short break just now.

There was no Kemper Arena when I lived in K.C., just miles of covered cattle chutes thatspanned the streets and avenues, etc. Cudahay, Swift, Armour and Wilson (among others) were the big meat processors back then. The 1951 Missouri River flood "took out" everything including the "Ox" The American Royal Pavillion was still intact. Its all changed from those former days due to the I-States, new building, etc. Russell, glad you approve of the menu. Yes, there will be the traditional "lady in the cake." Cindy won't be available, however, Lucy has condescended to do the "honors" this time.[^]

Tom, I think 8 pm ESDT should be convenient on August 16th (Tuesday). I may have to forgo the "lady in the cake" at my "Bash" The gals just aren't keen on the mess that goes with it. Something to do with Boris licking his fingers for more.[:O][alien] Okay, I gotta' went, too much to do, too little time to do it. Aufwiedersehen you's guys. Ted

[CFournier]

Good day all, Coffee please,
I had a nice party thanks to you guys, and a special thank you to Tom for all his efforts to keep me in touch with this nice bunch of fellow railfans. I tried to be there as much as I could with this **** connection AOL...
Will be switcing to Sympatico soon. Happy birthday to Russell in advance. [;)]
See you later, and as the guy says in the Red-Green show: Keep your stick on the ice...
Chris

[siberianmo]

G'day coalminer 3 Exasperation! Just lost a couple of paragraphs in reply ..... [censored][banghead]

Today was also Doctor day for me .... got a good to go as well.

Has anyone else noticed that the phrase good to go is getting quite a bit of overuse by TV commercials these days[?] I have an airline pilot friend who has used this phrase many times over the years and it makes sense coming from him. Given the checks and rechecks these guys go through in their professions, it makes sense. Buying fast food, however ...... [%-)]

Early railroad fascination for me began in the 1940's when my grandfather used to take me to Pennsylvania and Grand Central Stations in NYC. The PRR and NYC were my two favorites simply because those were the ones we got to travel aboard - for the fun of it. As I entered adolescence, the B&O entered the picture. As a young adult, the NH and B&M. All of those roads to this day occupy very special places in my aging memory banks. PRR is number one, and GG1's rule! [swg]

I checked out that site, Friends of Bedford Depot, and it's amazing how much stuff can be included in those cyber places. Thanx! [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[West Coast S]

Morning Tom and the gang...Coffee please, Trolleyboy you are correct that the BN rebuilt a few GP30s and GP20s in the 80s before terminating the program due to cost. Both were brought up to GP40-2 standards if I remember correctly.
645 power assemblies and dash 2 specific wiring and modular boards were the major improvements. Back in the 80s it was common to see SF GP-20s and 30s working as lead power just about anywhere on the SF. I once encountered a GP30 set powering the Southwest Chief over Cajon Pass, with the usual F40s missing from the ranks. I've always wondered what they did for head end power in a situation like this.

Now the SF SD26s were impressive conversions, I had the pleasure of a private tour of the San Bernadino shops where they recieving final attention prior to being placed in service. A favorite photo of mine was taken that same afternoon, a four exposure series of wide angle shots of 12 SD26s sitting in the A yard, so fresh, my light meter was useless for automatic exposure!

The El Segundo local made its apointed rounds today, unusual, they normally work on Tuesdays and Fridays. Power was the usual UP GP50/MP15 setup. I have a second SF GP30 siting to report, this time two blocks from the house in the company of several GP38s. With the Alameda Corridor this line has been dormant of all through traffic for over three years, BNSF uses the line for storage of surplus baretables.

Well guess i'd better get some work done today, i've been informed our commanding General will be conducting his inspection on a undisclosed facality at a undisclosed time next week...Man, does that mean I have to trim my hair and put a new blade in the razor? Geez what do they want from me?

Keep well Tom and the gang, I shall return.

Dave




Dave

[siberianmo]

G'day Ted
First and foremost, thanx for setting the time for your Birthday Bash - 8 PM, EDST (Eastern Time) on Tuesday, August 16th. [tup] You'll be MY age on that day. [:D]

I'll be in Dallas that night and will have my laptop with me. The hotel advertises internet connections. So, depending on whatever it is that *** may have planned for me - I should eventually get onlilne for some of your Bash. [swg]

Enjoy the visit with your nephew. Is this the same person that you bought those ill fated American Flyer trains for that you told us about [?] If so, did he ever find out what he almost had [?] [:O]

Believe it or not, I remember the KCity flood of 1951! Sure do. My uncle was a plumber and he went to a convention in KC during that flood. Didn't know the Ox was lost, but then again, why not [?] Given the location down there in the bottoms.

1951 was also the year of baseball disaster or joy for many baseball fans, October 3rd as a matter of fact. Remember the name Bobby Thomson of the New York Giants? [tdn] Bottom of the 9th, 3rd and final game of the National Leauge's 3-game playoff between the Brooklyn Dodgers and Giants who finished the regular season in a tie. Ralph Branca on the mound for the Dodgers - 2 outs, 2 on, 0-1 was the count. Bam! It's over, Giants win the pennant, Giants win the pennant, Giants win the pennant ....... screams Russ Hodges, Giant's announcer. Happy day for many, awful day for others. [yeah] 1951 ..... also the year I traveled to Mobile, AL to say goodbye to my father who was sailing for Korea. Lots of memories from that year .......

See ya! [tup][;)]
Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

G'day Chris
This is a good sign - you're not letting the B-ards get you down! [tup] insofar as the internet connectivity thing is concerned.

Appreciate your comments and it was our pleasure to share some of the fun of your day with you!

By the by, MY stick is ALWAYS on the ice - it's the ONLY way I can remaining UPRIGHT! [swg]

So, whatillyahave [?]
Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[siberianmo]

Hi West Coast S Dave Still morning out your way, so have some breakfast with that coffee! C'mon, we've got to pay to have this place repaired and brought back in time for Trainnut484 Russell and his Birthday Ba***his Saturday at 7:30 PM! Phew ....... [swg]

Can't really comment about those loco's, but it still is interesting stuff brought to the forum. That's what we do best 'round here, talk trains - Classic preferred.

See ya! [tup]
Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[West Coast S]

Tom...

The Santa Fe embarked on a general upgrading of older power in the 70s & 80s, included was most GE power, SD24s, GP20s, GP9s, FP45s, former Amtrak F45s and SW12 switchers. The work was performed at Topeka, claybourn and San Bernadino.

GP9s were upgraded for traction motors, AC, new cabs and wiring all had be previously chopped nosed.

Older GE power recieved new wiring, cab improvements, filtration modifications and modified traction motors and blowers .

Former SD24s recieved extensive filtration,turbo and cab modifications which resulted in additional sheetmetal on the hood and cab, with a visual result similar to that of the GP30. Additionaly, some recieved hump controls and derated power plants due to removal of the turbochargers these were also equipped to operate with yard slugs.

The GP20s recieved modifications similar to those applied to the SD26s. The GP20s and 26s were intended for light road and yard duty. Seems SF was unable to resist the temptation to use them for road power as well.

The former Amtrak units required the addition of end platforms and pilot work , truck, brake work, regearing and removal of the steam generators,water tank, relocated headlights and repainting into Santa Fe colors. The SW1200s were overhauled as per agreement with Amtrak as part trade for a equal number of F45s. Several were retained by the railroad as shop switchers.


Dave

[siberianmo]

G'day West Coast S That brew over there has your name on it ! [tup]

Anyway, thanx for the info on the SF diesel upgrades ... can't imagine the costs involved with something like that, let alone the initial outlays for the loco's. Costs just about the same as my S-gauge stuff! [swg]

The one thing I've always wondered about, and especially with Santa Fe, is the color scheme - or livery to be more railroadish ......[?] [:)] Anyway, back in the old days (my days) the diesels were colored to reflect either passenger or freight use. The rule of thumb with the PRR, for example, was Tuscan for passenger and Brunswick Green for freight. All the major roads did this. The best of 'em all, livery that is, was of course the Santa Fe's War Bonnet scheme. Red for passenger and blue for freight. Over the years, the game plan changed - of course as the demise of the passenger train set in. Nevertheless, one continued to see the alternating colors. Even saw some yellow ones in Santa Fe markings. What's the scoop on this [?] Perhaps too much info for this thread - maybe a URL to explain it. Again, it's a curious thing and something that this bar 'n grill likes to kick around.

See ya!
Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[Anonymous]

Good afternoon Y'all. I really do not talk like a redneck and use Y'all. Just playing the part since we now live in Texas. I do not have a cowboy hat and only had one pair of cowboy boots. Bought them when my wife met me here to go house hunting in 1978 in our big move form California. Borrowed a cowboy hat and wore the boots and hat to pick her up at the airport. The cowboy boots were the most uncomfortable pair of shoes I ever had. Threw them away after only wearing them a few times. My accent is upper Ohio Valley from the Wheeling-Steubenville area. Some people can pick it out right away.

Tom, I will have the gin. My favorite is Magellan. A little pricy at $35 per liter. It has a definate blue tint and looks like Bombay Sapphire in the bottle. Only difference is that Sapphire is in a blue glass bottle and is as clear as water when in a glass. Magellan is blue in the glass and comes in a clear bottle. Do not want to spoil the good gin with tonic so I will take it over ice with a lemon twist. That is what we have several nights at happy hour. We alternate between gin and cabarnet. Unfortunately I cannot afford Magellan for a reguar diet so mostly have Tanguerey, Sapphire or Beefeaters. So much for my bad habits.

Tom-The Trinity Railway Express, which has 13 Budd RDCs is a joint operation between Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) and the Fort Worth Transit Authority (The T). DART pays all the capital within Dallas county and The T pays all in Tarrant county. Operating expenses are split based on county ridership and currently is abour 60% DART-40% The T. Since the initial start up of service around Christmas 1996 was from Dallas Union Station to South Irving the initial 13 Budd RDCs were purchased by DART. The Bombardier bilevels and the engines are a joint purchase by DART and The T. Sounds like DART got screwed in the deal as the RDCs operate over the whole system. I did manage to get put into the DART-The T operating agreement where The T pays DART rent for the use of the RDCs. The T reps on the advisory committee did not like this as they wanted a free ride, but I prevailed. Part of the T's problem is lack of funding. Their service area has about 1/4 the population of the DART service area and their sales tax levy is 1/2% whereas DART's is a full percent. Bottom line is that DART receives about $375 million per year in sales tax revenue vs. The T's $40 million. DART has or shortly will have all of the Dallas county side double tracked whereas almost all of the track in Tarrant county is still single track. For signalling DART put in state of the art computer controlled solid state equipment. The T used old mechanical relay operated signalling on their side. Oh the wars that go on. DART essentially is the managing partner for the Trinity Railway Express. DART does all of the engineering design and populates the operation with personnel. The TRE office is in the Dallas Union Station. Monthly TRE advisory meetings are held in the conference room at the S&I facility in Irving.

The ROW is the old Rock Island line between Dallas and Fort Worth. When the Rock went bankrupt the cities of Dallas and Fort Worth jointly bought the line with federal funds to preserve it for a future mass transit corridor. I forget when the Rock went belly up, but up to the time it was transferred to TRE it was leased to the BNSF, UP and a short line. The cities collected rental from the guest railroads at about 20 cents per car mile. After we got the TRE up and running we worked on the cities to transfer ownership to TRE. I also claim this as one of my achievements while on the DART board. The cities initially wanted to sell it to TRE, but backed down when they found out that the $35 million they received from the feds to purchase the line would have to be refunded back to the feds. Bottom line is TRE got the line free. For most of this time the BNSF dispatched and maintained the line. The problem was that they were paying union wages with double time for Sunday. We wanted maintenance done on Sunday, but they would not do this and would delay trains when working on the ROW during week days. They also gave preference to BNSF freight trains. I have never heard of a crate inside a box car complain about being in the hole for several minutes, but have heard it from humans inside a coach. So in about 2002 TRE took over operation and dispatching of the line. We contracted this out to the Herzog company from St. Joe Mo. who were and are our contract operator. Herzog has and continues to do a super job. We have a dispatching center in our S&I facility in Irving that has all of the computer terminals just like Harriman Center in Omaha or the BNSF center in Fort Worth, only just a little bit smaller. The line is shut down every Sunday for MOW with nothing moving on the line. When it is all double tracked we will begin running on Sunday.

Coalminer 3, I have a question for you. Your handle says that you are from West Virginia, however, you say you grew up with the B&M, CV, B&A, and New Haven. The last time I checked none of these lines ever reached West Virginia. I assume that you were raised in New England and moved to West Virginia at a later date. Where do you live in West Virgini? Being from that great state, graduating from West Virginia University, and having worked for Hope Gas (1964-1966) I was all over the state chasing wells. Perhaps our trails might have crossed at one time.

Tom, I managed to kill the glass of gin. Could I have another? Thank you. Ah, that tastes good. Pardon me. Do you mind if I lay down for a while?

Snore, snore, snore.

***

[siberianmo]

G’day *** – Note, that’s in place of Howdy!, however, in deference to your location, the cowboy hat continues! [C):-)] [swg]

I’m very excited about getting to see and ride those RDC’s of DART/Trinity. For those who may not know or recall, those fine Budd Rail Diesel Cars were purchased from VIA Rail a few years after the lines between Halifax – Yarmouth and Halifax – Sydney, Nova Scotia were discontinued in the early 1990s. They were all refurbished and brought to standards of DART and are now operating as *** has so aptly chronicled. I saw them in December 1991, just sitting there at the Halifax Station, appropriately with snow falling. They were being run on “shore power,” to prevent freeze ups and other weather related damage until final disposition could be arranged.

There had been an aborted attempt by a group that I chaired to side track a couple of those RDC’s en route Dallas for use in my community for demonstration purposes. We happen to have a legitimate rail right-of-way that could easily accommodate commuter rail. The idea was to link up with our light rail system, which for some unexplained reason has no plans to link up with my town – the largest population and revenue center in west St. Louis county. Anyway, the mere idea of this demonstration created such a fire storm amongst the ignorant and their political hacks, that we gave it up. Additionally, our primary benefactor, one of the retail world’s biggest was given some poor advice regarding some environmental impact crap and began to have second thoughts. To this day my blood simply boils when I think of how close we came, only to be thwarted by ignorance.

Okay, ring the bell Boris – while this isn’t necessarily [#offtopic], I need a belt of something – and so does everyone else! [swg]

Oh [yeah], I have a bit of knowledge regarding the old Rock Island Line, or more correctly, the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad. They had three experiences with bankruptcy over the years and in 1980, the court determined that they could not make it in reorganization. They were ordered to liquidate – the largest in U.S. history at the time. The last train operated by the Rock Island was on March 31, 1980.

More gin [?] I'll join ya - but I prefer a dash of tonic and a twist of lime with my Beefeaters! [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[West Coast S]

Tom..

Santa Fe did have a few F units painted with yellow replacing the traditional red warbonnet, the remainder of the carbody retained silver paint. I believe this was done in the early 60s and was never adopted as standard. You are correct in your observation that most passenger power wore specific paint, Santa Fe was no exception, Red for passenger, blue for freight..but wait a minute the saga of the FT must be conveyed.

Being the first diesels on the system, they were assigned to handle war tonnage on the western districts, they were considered too valuable for freight duty to be assigned for pool passenger power. Additional FT deliveries and the foreseeable end of conflict, permitted Santa Fe to regear and repaint, initally one and later two sets into passenger colors, which they retained until the push for complete dieselization caused a third repaint back into freight blue. And so this trend continued until Santa Fe finally clarified locomotive assignments. So paint swapping depending on assignments was not unheard of.

Quite a few former passenger units ended service in freight duty (PAs excepted), retaining former passenger colors. Amtrak keep a fleet operating upon startup with only new lettering hastly spray painted on. Santa Fe, meanwhile was rebuilding the remaining suitable F units into CF7 or retiring them enmass and all would be gone by 1973.

Actually, cost wise the rebuilding program was overall less then new purchases in those recession years. SF had too large a roster not to rebuild, its interesting to note that switcher replacement was at the top of the wish list.

So Tom, if you and I are on the same page, there were examples of yellow/silver, blue paint deleated F units.

Whew..I could use that brew now if you please.

Dave

[siberianmo]

G'day West Coast S Dave

Appreciate the insight regarding the Santa Fe livery of the times ... really does clear it up a bit. Somewhere inside of me is this perfectionist of sorts, kinda like an anal personality that rears (no pun intended!) up when I see something like a passenger colored loco pullling a fregiht. [tdn] Well, [yeah] I know, who really gives a rat's patoot [?] I do! [swg]

Two brews comin' up - one for you and one for me! [tup]

Tom[4:-)][oX)]

[West Coast S]

We give a rat's patoot[:D] that's who[bow] At least freight duty kept them alive for a few more years. I curse those which demoted the Alco PA to freight duty (that's my unsolicited opinion you EL fans). And the Pennsy-Penn Central , shame on you. E units on coal drags [V][:(][2c]

Dave[tup]