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Bill Brown <[email protected]
There was a query on the CPRSOO list regarding the status of CPR H1b 2816.
As I've unsubscribed from CPRSOO I have no way to tell if anyone has responded to the query. I visited the BC Rail steam shop Friday and have a small amount of information to pass along. 2816 has been in the shop for a couple of months or so. The tender sits outside. All boiler insulation and cladding has been removed as well as most piping and boiler fittings. The stoker has been removed in preparation for conversion to fuel oil firing. My understanding is that the boiler is being readied for hydrostatic testing. The results of this and the other inspections currently being made will be used to determine whether to proceed with the full restoration or not. From the inspections made to date, the boiler appears to be in generally good condition. A new cab is to be built and the tender needs fuel oil conversion work and repairs to fix up some corrosion damage to the top platework. A time frame of 9 months was mentioned for the restoration. Personally, I think it might run longer than this unless CP wants to fast track the job and put a big crew on it. None of this is official, just a tidbit from casual conversations. At the time of my visit 2860 was sitting outside the shop all fired up and undergoing safety valve setting. A crew was standing by to take her out for a spin as soon the safeties were done. If everything checked out OK she would have made her first trip on the regular run to Squamish and return today, Saturday. 3716 had been standing in on the 'Royal Hudson' runs so far this year. Bill Brown Richmond, BC |
