Southern Pacific #18 update – April and May 2018

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Late March was a busy time in Independence. The FRA inspector was in town to do the annual inspection on #18. A hydro test was performed and all went well. We have only a handful of things remaining before we are ready to operate the #18, which will next be on October 5-6, 2018.

In other work we laid a lot of track!There is now approximately 500 feet of track in place including a completed switch for our engine house lead. Our 1943 Plymouth switcher (ex. Apache Powder Co.)made multiple trips up and back hauling track tools and components as well as a few passengers. Next up for track work will be completing the ballasting and eventually adding a second switch with track heading north east towards the main museum building.

Also accomplished was painting and cleaning out of a good portion of boxcar #6 in preparation for its journey to Dehy Park and display. In the coming months the car will be moved and our new boxcar #15 will be placed on trucks.

Lastly it is with sadness that we must announce that Lynn “Ma” Cromer is stepping down as secretary. Lynn has been with us for well over a decade and will be sorely missed. She will be hard to replace.

As always, thanks for the support!

 

Southern Pacific #18 update – March 2018

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Late February had the long anticipated boxcar swap take place. The CRRW and Laws had discussed for some time swapping a fixed up boxcar #13 for one of the cars in the Laws boxcar village. This trade benefited both groups in that Laws received a freshly painted car with a metal roof that would look good and be better storage while the CCRW received a car, #15, that was complete with couplers, brakes and truss rods that would be easier and more cost effective to restore to operation for use in Independence.

Thanks to Dave, TL, Cody and all the Laws folks for making it happen. Now we can get to work restoring #15.

Upcoming in March will be the FRA visit for the #18’s annual. We will also continue our track laying and hope to move boxcar #6 into Dehy Park.

Finally, we are finalizing a few dates in 2018 to operate the #18. Most likely August and October, Final dates will be announced soon. Thanks as always for everyone who helps out!