Re: Breckenridge wants C&S #9 in 2009 (and no Loop steam until at least July)

RE: #9 - One the Loop's biggest problems has been the lack of reliable and big enough steam motive power. I can't imagine that they could afford to give up the #9 until it is known if the FRA will accept the Form 4 on the #12. Should the #12 require substantial modification to meet FRA requirements, then the best option might be to to give priority to rebuild the #9 instead. I've heard the #9 has a substantially larger firebox heating surface, giving it an advantage over the #12 when pulling the grade. I'm not sure how the whole trade/loan agreement is for the #111, but isn't that why #9 was to go to Breckenridge? Any chance #111 will make it before next season?

RE: #21 - It had an overheated engine in poor shape, rebuilt this winter. Still, four cars might be a lot for this loco's electrical capabilities.(I was engineer on some of the #21's first trips on the Loop).

RE: #1203 = The untimely departure of John Braun as CMO happened before the #1203 had made all the intended test runs to clearly determine its capabilities and to complete any adjustments needed for Loop operation. It is very different than the #21 - and is NOT a "push-button" locomotive requiring appropriate skills to properly maintain and operate it. (I was involved with the Porter overhaul and did operate it as engineer - I also have experience as a shortline engineer on plenty of other diesel-electrics).

Dan