Re: More WP&Y, Car details

Bill...
Again, thanks. The ways in which Galvanic corrosion can be avoided at joints between steel and aluminum parts are rather well documented in the literature. They vary from the use of paint to layers of thin, sturdy engineering plastic. I would guess you would use plastic washers under the stainless bolt heads and washers, but have not yet seen that suggested. Another point that is made is that aluminum need not be painted, but can even be buffed to a shiny finish (but not at Chama!).
The type of aluminum required for railcar construction is considerably more expensive than steel. However, the savings in locomotive operating and maintenance costs, with the 4% grade out of Chama, would offset that differential in one or two years, in my opinion.
Bob Keller