Re: Whistles on the D&S and the C&TS locomotives

I don't want to pick a fight with you Herb, but the two whistles were as identical at two whistles can be. I heard 487's in 1967 and have recordings of it. From the right angle of approach and if lots of other atmosphereic conditions come up the right way, it was a dead on copy. But, like any two identical whistles, they would not sound exactly the same, especially after years of steam going through them.
As I mentioned in another thread, the appearent pitch of whistles is very much dependent on which chimes are facing you when its blown. 489 had the shortest chime to the front. I thought it sounded better that way. The Dopper effect made that high note cut through beautifully.
The 487's whistle was turned so the short chime was to the rear and you heard the two lowest notes when it was coming at you.
Because of this the two whistles had distinct differences but definite family resemblance. The best place to hear 489 was from Coxo when she whistled for Cumbres on Windy Point. The combination of distance and a nice rock backdrop to reflect the sound out into the valley made the notes ring out loud and clear.
And it sounded just like the recording I have of 487 at the same spot.
I worked on the old gal for nearly 20 years, great whistle. That's may story and I'm sticking to it.