Re: Three engines at Big Horn

I don't know for sure when the switches were removed, but sometime in the last several years. From my time with RGRPC I remember there was concern about the condition of switch points and frogs, and there was a shortage of replacement material. Either the switches were taken out of service because they were too worn and there was no replacement material, or the material was okay and removed to replace condemnable material at locations where the railroaded regularly used the switches. Or some combination. 70 pound switch material is not readily available, and can be expensive when you find it. My guess is like so many things on the C&TS is is simply a matter of time and money.
I remember lusting over the two mint condition 70 lb switches that are laying idle on Indian land at Gato....the C&TS could sure use them.
JBW