Obviously, all of this is in speculation at this point, as the only facts we have are the CHS stated that the #9 (Little Savior per Peter) will be running in about 2 weeks AND the photo from a week or so ago showing her stripped and forlorn. Sooo... somebody call John Braun and ask him what is up? John might be the only boiler builder with crew and shop time (and a desire) to work for CHS.
A couple of thoughts here for CHS, if they plan to put a new boiler on #9...
1) It further compromises #9's already shredded historical fabric and authenticity.
2)Mammoth is noted for their ASME boilers which have not had radius flanged sheets, but square butted corners (like those on the Pineapple Princess #12), which are far less desirable for daily use on a mountain railroad.
3)Most in the know would really feel better with a new boiler versus the present lap seam, especially the insurance company, but again that new boiler is in direct conflict with CHS's mission to preserve and protect historic assets.
4)It would make a whole lot more sense to take the present boiler off of the frame of the #9 and have it matched exactly for size/specs because even one slight alteration will make the entire rebuild extremely difficult, time consuming and costly.
Soooo...CHS has never listened to any real experts and has continued to bluff and blunder their way along, covering their tracks with a lot of spin, lame PR and deceit. I would not expect them to listen now...but one can only hope that they might someday like to stop looking like liars and fools and take well intended advice (and their true mission) to heart.
Karell
