Re: NNG-Why did 1744's stint in service end so abruptly? (Current Photos)

I concur with Everett - all of is knew that the boiler was pretty well worn-out, but we were pleasantly surprised to find out how much work had been done already. For example, the side sheets on the boiler have been replaced and the new mudring has been made (photo 1); also, the firebox crown sheet, tube sheet, and door sheet have been formed as well (photos 2 and 3). I wish I had a better picture, but if you looked at the old crown sheet closely, you could very clearly see the radial cracking around the corner staybolts. The nice thing is once all is said and done, the boiler will be in great shape, which means this engine will run for many years to come.