It feels a little like the animas railway 2.0. It is a different time and maybe the first time it was just ahead of itself.
This does make me wonder if a remodeled Railbus for special work could be a cost effective way to try different options. Start by getting a diesel sponser to re motor it. Maybe customize a trailer car that could also have an upper, open platform. Use it on a Wednesday once a month to get out onto the line for unique photo ops. Maybe twice a month. Use it in a role to allow an all freight on the line but use the bus as the support train for photo lines. I would have to believe this is cheaper than running a steamer (don’t get me wrong, I much prefer steam).
I am sure there are many reasons this is a bad idea but I have wondered if such a thing could be useful for the C&TS too? The stealth cars are a fantastic option but what if a Railbus was used to minimize how much backing and time is required per run by. Again, I would believe that this would be at least a little cheaper than an extra steamer for support, thus lowering costs.
All of this comes to mind when I see that the Railbus hardly is moved and it just sits. I wonder if there isn’t a use for it that could expand the brand and do it with a minimum of cost?
Phil