Dagnabbit Jerry!
Don't muddy the waters with silly numbers and negativity. In recent years in Plume, it has been proven that rails are made of rubber and gauge really isn't too important. If you do your part and make the effort, there's no need for any further common sense.
I double-dog dare you to send # 19 to the Loop to be able to expand knowledge of historical accuracy. If not, don't you think a quickee conversion to oil on # 3 would surely save a lot of them nasty splinters? We have qualified steam mechanics standing by ... able to completely dismantle up to 3 locomotives in a few short weeks.
If you don't hurry up and send all you've got to Plume, other railroads that maintain a good operation will be there first. I know this is a silly question, but can you call some friends at other railroads and get them to pitch in and send more locomotives? We'll save a seat for you on the celebrity telethon phone bank for SAVE THE LOOP.
Just imagine # 19 triple headed with that 2-axle diesel and "Pineapple Princess" #12. That would be one heck of a dignified historic moment and would have no need for brass bands or even rubber tomahawks. I'm thinking it would be a picture perfect moment. With enough insurance, you all could buy two more locomotives when the time comes. Act now to make it in time for fall colors.
Wake up Taylor and come on down, Jerry. Don't delay. Bring a couple steamers hooked on the back of Valdez. We'll leave the light on for you.