I believe what William says is probably true that the D&S had some difficulties with 497. I was fortunate to get some video of 497 on a ballast train in 1991.
For what it is worth 493 and 498 do have the distinction of being the last two K37's to operate in regular Rio Grande freight service in 1998. I saw both in Chama in June 1968, alont with 483. So I have a soft spot for those two K37's also! 498 was the last steam engine I ever saw operate on the Chama-Durango line that year.
One of these days we'll make the movies available which included 478 going to Farmington from Durango. Wish I had sound equipment back in those days!!! Oh well, some movies are better than nothing, right!
Greg Scholl
Greg Scholl