Re: 168 / 425 night sleeper train report

Well I can give you my take since I was the fireman on 425 that night. First I want to thank all of the individuals that worked all day to get 168 repaired and ready for the night train. Most of those that were involved were mechanical guys from other railroads and museums that chipped in to get it ready, Thanks.
Everything went together smoothly and we left with a full head of steam. Both engines ran great up the hill to Cumbres. The spring that feeds the tank at Cresco has been getting used a lot in the past month and it showed when we made our water stop. We filled up 168's tender and pulled up so I could fill 425's tender. When I pulled the rope the water came out like a garden hose. We looked at the level indicator and it showed 0. Since 425 has a good sized tank we made a run up to Cumbres to get water. Still had plenty of water in the tender but it was good to fill it up to the top. We cut away from the train, 425 ducked into the siding and 168 coupled back up to the train for the photo shoot. Good turnout and such a different perspective at Cumbres at midnight. 168 departed with her train and we whistled to the passengers as they went by. Turned on the wye and headed back down the hill to Chama. Arrived on schedule at 3am, turned on the wye and put it to bed in front of the 484. Great night that I will remember well.

Steam Forever,
Erin Swain
D&RGW 315 steam crew member