Musical workcars

The two photos below are interesting and mysterious workcars that have been around Durango for years. The first was sold as 04163 in one of the recent auctions. The second one is what we know in modern times as 04466.

According to the Swanson & Horner work/box outfit car book there have been three cars known as 04466. The first was retired in 1934 according to the text. The second was 4516 that was renumber to 04466 in Nov of 1934 and remained that way until about 1938. Then in the mid 50's the 04280 and 04466 exchanged numbers.

Photos from NG pictorial Vol. X

04163
1941 pg 88 - Windows centered between door and ends, smoke jack B, B end door

04280
1949 pg 98 - Door off center, windows near ends, B end solid, smoke jacks A & center
1969 pg 141 - Windows near door, smoke jacks B & center

04466
1939 pg 126 - Door centered, windows near door, smoke jacks B & center, B window
1960 pg 167 - Door off center, windows near ends, smoke jacks A & center
1964 pg 127 - Door off center, windows near ends, smoke jacks A & center

Based upon these photos and the text from the work/box book, it seems to make sense that 04280 and 04466 switched numbers in the later years. If that is the case then that suggests that the later 04280 is actually 4516. Now how do we add 04163 into the mix? The photo below of what is claimed to be 04163 looks like a dead ringer for the later 04280 and the second 04466. Anyone know of 04163 photos later than 1941? How about a photo of 04516? Was 4516 ever 04516 or did it go straight to the second 04466? Are you confused yet? This reminds me of tenders.


04163


04466


Dave