Steam Engine Maintenance

January 13, 2009

Keen model railroading enthusiast Dick wants to hear from others on how to maintain his old Empire Builder (circa 1939):

“Almost 70 years ago I boarded the Empire Builder, leaving frozen Minnesota for the damp Northwest. I still remember that snortin’, fire-breatin’ steam-spittin’ monster that roared into the depot.

Overly long approach to the question, but I can replace my diesel stuff on my generous Social Security, but to replace some of this N scale steam iron would be a little tougher. I can’t afford another 4-8-4, let alone buying a Senator that would give me a pittance of the trillion gazzilion they are passing out for my pitiful little infrastructure.

So, short of a government bailout, what’s the best plan for keeping the old Empire Builder (circa 1939) rolling?

True disclosure: Years later I took a train to Texas. To Aviation Cadet pilot training. During the past 55 years as a professional pilot, I don’t recall seeing a steam powered airplane. But I did find some, like the old Great Northern fire breather, that sucked air in and spit fire out the back, and actually went a fair bit faster than a train. Thanks, guys for putting up with my ramblings.”