I think what Andrew is trying to say perhaps is that a tourist line might be better off buying one of those new QJ 2-10-2's from Mr. Posner, that were just shipped here from China, versus fixing up something like the 148. First off it might be cheaper, and I suppose debatable that it might be better since its newer as well.
By the way I got to see FEC 153 operate on two different trips to Florida. Once it was at an old Blimp base. One question,isn't 148 the engine that was owned by Doug Brown of Michigan before it went to Colorado??
I would think a 2-10-2 would be better suited for Colorado than 148 being that its a Pacific.
Its mind-boggling to think what these restorations cost today, compared to say 20 years ago! Of course gas was cheaper then too I suppose!
Greg