Re: Extra 497/487 West

I talked with Mike. He told me both brakemen attempted to set the hand brakes, but were without clubs - and were working with only one grass rake handle - way too flimsy to do the job. They were able to run the brakes down to the wheels - but could not get enough leverage to bring them up tight. thus the nesessity to go airborn. I think the Crew does a marvelous job working with very old equipment - and the operating Company is also doing a great job - trying to makes repairs that involve serious under maintenance for decades. how about all you guys giving them a chance to suceed - and as a matter of fact how about helping them suceed - make a donation NOW to the Another Century of Steam - or purchase a video. Get with the program of helping the RR or go ride a bus!. Ed Lowrance