W.W.&F. Discussion Forum
WW&F Railway Museum Discussion => Museum Discussion => Topic started by: Robert Hale on April 15, 2010, 01:00:30 AM
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Hey all,
I was wondering if I could start on the plans for diesel engine #53? I had been kicking around ideas about a center cab loco, and I just revised the main transmission design and found a possible source for wheel-set gear boxes. Also, the engines will be cummins 4BT's with HD4500 trannys. Would hydraulic brakes be fine? Or should there be air brakes? My goal is about 15,ooo lbs for it.
Rob
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You're always welcome to come up with plans or look for a good deal in the marketplace. However we've had opportunities for other diesel locos before and so far have turned them down. It's not necessarily a good fit for us, since we like to recreate 1910 rather than 2010.
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Rob,
I suggest you study the prime directive (as I call it) of the WW&FRR. James summarized it rather succinctly. It takes a while to sink in, but the railroad is not just a touristy operation, but is recreating history as closely as possible. The internal combustion locomotives are a necessity for convenience, but steam is used as much as possible. There always are concessions to moderism and safety, but these are meant to be kept to a minimum. This is why #9 is being repaired for operation, and the next build is #11. In terms of the philosophy of the railroad, a modern center cab diesel just doesn't fit in.
Notwithstanding what I have said above, it is fun to dream and it would be interesting to see what you have in mind. I see a stretched version of the GE on the MNGRR. I always felt they were awkward looking locomotives and that a redesign was in order (wider cab for one)(body mounted couplers for two).
I have been involved in the #11 project, and after a visit to the foundry and having castings made, the costs are just mind boggling. A locomotive like you suggest being made by commercial builders working on the parts would probably cost way in excess of $500,000. Being built in house or in your own shop could cut down on the cost, but it would still be considerable.
The next thing would be time. #9 has taken much more time than estimated. I see #11 as a 10+ year project. Would #53 be worked on after #11 is done?
These are all things to think about when entering a project like this.
Bernie
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I apologize, my imagination went wild and spilled over. I'll study again the Museum's goal of replicating the era of the original line. I'll focus my energies on helping out on current projects or new projects that could help the line out.
Thanks,
Rob