Re: SVRy #17

I don't have a definitive answer, but in context, SVRy purchased the two coal burning tank engines Uintah #50 and #51 in 1940. These two engines were converted to oil burning tender engine with the side tanks removed. #17 was the only other SVRy steam locomotive that remained active after #50 and #51 came on line as #250 and #251. Fire danger was always an issue with wood or coal burning, so not too surprising that at some point in time they would go to oil. The Oregon Lumber Co at MP60 on the Sumpter Valley also converted their big narrow gauge Shay #7 to oil at this same time. #7 survives in operation at Heston, Ind. but I believe it is back to wood or coal.