Re: NML No. 7 Shay history

I think the line up the Middle Fork used varying rail weights, maybe to begin with it had some 35 pound rail but I know that the line also was upgraded quite a bit with second-hand Sumpter Valley rail, bridge timbers, etc. The only problem involving track that the #7 had when she was put to work on the OLC was that one of the wyes was too sharp and her slip-joint came apart when she tried to turn on it.
For a more detailed history of her life on the OLC, look for the next narrow gauge issue of Finescale Railroader, probably around September. In it should be an article with some information you've never heard as well as some pictures you've never seen...