Re: 493 Update

Mark MPT Wrote:
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> Since we are on the topic of the cleanliness of
> the oil-burning steamers and how it will limit the
> fire chances, I have been wondering, will 493 have
> a spark arrestor? I mean, I would assume the
> chance of a fire still exists, but much lower.
> Never can be too safe I guess. What are your
> thoughts on this? I know this may be irrelevant as
> we will find out soon enough, but just thought
> it'd be an interesting topic to discuss.

As the reason fro 493's oil conversion is largely political, my guess is 493 will wear a spark arrester. Some states (California was one) required the railroads to have spark arresting devices on their oil burning locomotives. The Sierra RR' steam locomotives had netting in the smokebox as well as a spark arrester on top of the stack during the summer months.