Rotaries, Asbestos, and Mechanical Condition

Mark -- Back in 1999 thru 2001 when I was project leader for the Friends on the asbestos removal of 483 and 492 we also had the asbestos on OM and OY checked by the removal people and tested at their lab. It is the bad stuff; HOWEVER, we were informed that since it is encapsulated it does NOT have to be removed.

Of course, once there is a need to remove the boiler jacketing, then the asbestos removal experts would have to come in. Fortunately, back then we checked with the FRA, and since the rotaries are considered ancillary maintenence equipment (or some such category) and don't fall under Part 230 Form 4, there is no need to apply those FRA regs. as is the case with the steam locos.

Every so often the rumor comes up that the rotaries can't be run because of asbestos -- not true. Please spread the word. Much thanks.

Also, OY should be in pretty sound mechanical condition, having been rebuilt by Kyle in 1991-92, but I'd rather others like John Bush, Jack Campbell, or John Craft commented on this. If that is the case, then after doing some much needed wood repair and painting and having the shop "freshen up" the mechanicals, OY probably could be operated, at least for demonstration purposes. Whether it should be used to clear the line in the Spring is really up to Mother Nature and management (is there money to run it?).