D&RGW 318

Thank you Mr. Tallman.

I was out there when we tried to finish the firebox (stays.) Of course then the boiler inspecter checked the saddle for the dome and found it to be almost 1/8" thick (thin?) in places. Being a rivet'd boiler they were unsure what to do. Machining a new saddle of that diameter was nearly impossible, (Of course now-days a CAD/CAM might be able to machine one. Maybe?) I think people started thinking a new boiler is in order. Perhaps Strasburg might have an idea what to do, the #20's boiler can't be much worse.

I think it was about 4 years ago when I was out there Carl and Randy had been working on everything below the boiler. The frame was on her her wheels and was resting in the roundhouse. The boiler was out next to the fence (right where it is now...) I think this was shortly before all the Loop equipment found a home there.

From what I understand, the problem with 318 is that right now she is considered an incomplete locomotive and the state will not give any of the gambling money to that project. I guess if you put everything back together and then request money you could get it... Odd huh...

Please keep us appraised. The DHRS people should a be a good resource to use after all their work on the 315! ;-)

Say, does Andrew ever get on here to post? Sure be nice if he could put out more information as to what they have in the roundhouse...

Thanks!

-Rob H.
Colorado Transplant to North carolina.