I guess everyone knows how much I contributed in my above mentioned post. I know we need lots of money for this project, but many other things can be done. We are going to need more pattern makers and machinists to get this locomotive done. The more that is contributed by volunteers, the lower the overall cost of the locomotive will be. Outside labor costs are extremely high. We have a machinist with access to a big shop here in Pennsylvania who is just waiting for raw material.
I have been involved with this project since October 2006 when I was introduced to Jason by Wayne. Over the years, I have made several involved patterns and have from 500 to 1000 total hours in them. I am currently working on the cranks which should come up in Arpil. I have paid for all the materials myself and along with Wayne paid to have the bell bracket cast which is now on display in the freight station. I wish I had known about the foundry in Auburn, as it would have been much cheaper than the big foundry we had them cast in down here. We both have $1000-$2000 in castings, wood, supplies and tools which we have donated. I'm sure the commercial prices for the patterns I have made would range from $10,000 to $25,000.
What I am saying is, if you want to see this locomotive get done, get involved! The reason I am so involved is that since I live down here in PA, there isn't much I can do up in Maine on the physical property of the WW&F. I would also like to state that I am not a commercial pattern maker. I learned the hard way when we needed them at the WK&S and later at Project CNJ 113. Just because you don't know how to do something doesn't mean you can't learn. The whole railroad at Sheepscot was built that way.
Bernie
