A rotary is basically a steam engine with a large fan in front. I was told one time that a million dollars was a good rule of thumb for repairing steam engines. Sure you can get things done for cheaper but you get what you pay for. Complete restore of the running gear, suspension, boiler, cab and appliances like air pump adds up quick. CaTS RR is fortunate that they have a shop to make parts. Just think of what the cost of a crown bearing, cross-head or cylinder head would be if bought on the open market, if you could find it in the first place.
I would love to see a rotary work the line but not going to happen for some time.