Doubtful, but Never say never

I am a pessimist when it comes to the '37s on the Silverton. In my honest opinion I really doubt either the 493 or 498 will ever run again. When you see the two rusting away in Durango and Silverton you can’t help but assume there is not a bright future for either. Also when they acquired the 486 to essentially replace the 476 as an operating loco rather than try restoring the ’93 or ’98 the cards are definitely not in favor for either engine. The next restoration will be the 476, and look how long it has been out, what 1999? There is no hurry and no need for more engines in Durango. 476 is a nostalgic restoration, the others have no history on the branch.
But then, of the three 37s to send to the Royal Gorge, why did they send the least likely candidate for restoration up there? Could they be saving the best two candidates for a possible restoration? Once again I doubt it, but never say never. Just 10 years ago who would’ve thought the 476 would not be running, but the 486, the 9, and the 315 among others would be operable or soon operating.