Re: The Natl. Park Svc. Special - Nov. 23 & 24, 1968

Sharrod Wrote:
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> Was 493 serviceable in 1970? I wonder why it did
> not go to C&TS, or any other serviceable power
> (other than 483)?

The only engine serviceable in 1970 was 483. All the other engines had expired flue time. When selecting locomotives, what became the C&TS focused on the K-36 class and got all of the K-36's that had been recently in service - 483, 484, 487 & 488. 484 was returned to service under flue extension in 1971. 487 and 488 had to be reflued before they could be operated. In addition to those "operational" K-36's, 482 and 489 were purchased as parts source. At the time these engines had been set aside for several years and there were not deemed suitable for operation.

One K-37 - 492 - was selected as a possibly operational locomotive. 492 was last used in 1966 and was set aside with flue time remaining on her boiler. As such she was just as serviceable as 484, needed an inspection and flue extension. In addition, 494 and 495 were selected for "parts" or as display pieces.

493 and 498 would have been available as operational candidates, but were not selected..