Doesn't #476's boiler have to be re-done anyway? The K-28's are only marginally smaller than the K-36's. I understand (especially reading these posts) that economics is a major factor in the decisions as to what will be restored and what will run but considering the fact that there are only three remaining K-28's (with two of them currently down needing repairs) it would seem important to try and keep them in operational condition.
I understand the situation with the boiler re-certification. It would seem that the D&S is actually in way better shape there than is the C&T! The D&S shops are fully capable of refurbishing the #476 and I am surprised that they have not seen fit to include it's "restoration" in their long-term (and not just "someday hopefully") plans (unless I am mistaken and somebody knows diferently.)
The D&S has stated that they are always in need of more engines (yes, they actually said that!) Considering the fact that they have one already in relatively good shape with only a complete boiler replacement and frame rebuild necessary (Okay, so it'll take more than duct tape and JB Weld to fix this problem! It still is miniscule compared to what the C&T faces in trying to get all of their engines back up to par!)
All of this brings us back to #483 and #463. It's not a question of #463 vs #483 (at least I hope it hasn't come to that!) My original post was that #463 is now setting dead at Antonito. I am worried that it will suffer the same fate as that of poor #483!
This might be considered sacrilege but has anyone thought of trading #463 and #483 for a working K-28? The D&S would get two more engines, the C&T would get a working K-28 and two problems are solved!
What? I've overlooked the fact that #483 is just a few parts shy of being complete? Nope. I thought of it. The K-36 is the most desireable engine for reasons already stated. Having another would be in the D&S's best interests.
What about the fact that it would take years to put it back together? Probably, and also cost a mint but that is the price you pay when you are planning for the future!
Why add in #463? Simple. It can be repaired relatively easily. It could then be used in place of the missing K-28 while #483 is undergoing restoration. Cost? Again, this could be absorbed by the D&S far easier than the C&T for any forseable future.
Basically it's a swap. A good (but smaller)engine for one that's larger but not in good condition and throw in a still smaller engine (that also has problems but not serious ones) to sweeten the pot!
I see two problems with this scenario:
#1. The D&S won't want to give up their K-28 for two broken down engines even if one of them is a K-36 and the other could be made to run relatively easily.
#2. The C&T wouldn't want to give up #483 as it was "their first" and is somehow sentimentally connected with their railroad (even though they have let it deteriorate to the point where only a major restoration project will ever see it run again!) Also, they will not want to give up two engines for one even if it means that they would get a working K-28!
Well, those are my ramblings. I eagerly await all the howls of derision that I'm sure will follow my "suggestions".
