C&S 1008 restorers are here!

Mike -

Just saw your post and we're certainly willing to share some of the data and photos we've collected as part of 1008's restoration. How we approach the restoration is determined, in part, by our goal of making 1008 operational. And yes, we have questioned our sanity a few times since we obtained the bobber in Dec. 2010.

If it's practical for you, I see a trip to Silver Plume in your future (but maybe best to wait for Spring!) The 1006 on display there is the most authentic example remaining. It was donated to the town, left literally plopped in the dirt actually, when C&S abandoned the Leadvile-Denver line. We've spent the better part of three days there since May 2011 going over every inch. We could communicate back-channel regarding what we have that could be useful.

As prior posts tell, 1008 was found and rescued as a stripped-down wooden shed. The metal parts we have obtained for the restoration so far (pedestals, journals, couplers, brake components, etc.) are functionally and period correct, but are not authentic to the bobbers and not of C&S origin. For example, we do have workable pedestals/journals as you mention. But they are from standard gauge wood-frame passenger trucks used by CB&Q during that era. These are the same components used to restore D&RG 049 at the CRRM. We documented the 1006 pedestals/journals in great detail, but fabricating operational versions was not practical for us.

We are going to some lengths to fabricate certain parts that are important visually. For example, Richard has completed a pattern (including raised "C & S" and pattern no.) for the distinctive 6" diameter ribbed washers used at the ends of the longitudinal tension rods. We're also having an operating, properly-sized brake cylinder fabricated following pressure vessel practices (more-recent NG cylinders are not correct size). Also, spring hangers and leaf springs will be fabricated based on measurements from 1006.

Reading this makes me think we owe the NGDF a photo-update!

Bob of AZ