CNJ 113 runs!

[Keith Taylor]

The CNJ 113 ran recently on its test runs.
In the video you can see WW&F member and pattern maker Bernie Perch in the gang way.
This group can be really proud of the astounding work they have done bring back a derelict.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-rKYhmG1gk&feature=youtu.be

Keith

[Bernie Perch]

Thanx Keith for posting this.  If you really want to know what a high high is, I was experiencing it that moment.  I have been a part of this group for over 12+ years and even was at the throttle when we moved in on the siding in previous months, but this was THE MOMEMT of success.  The whole thanks for this project must go to Bob Kimmel, all the volunteers, and the money people, who make this thing happen.  Of course, there is much more to do.  Something like this doesn't end with the restoration of the locomotive.

Bernie

[Mike Fox]

Anytime anything is restored to operate is fantastic. Now that you guys have come this far, it should be easy to keep the enthusiasm and finish the project.

[Keith Taylor]

Thanx Keith for posting this.  If you really want to know what a high high is, I was experiencing it that moment.  I have been a part of this group for over 12+ years and even was at the throttle when we moved in on the siding in previous months, but this was THE MOMEMT of success.  The whole thanks for this project must go to Bob Kimmel, all the volunteers, and the money people, who make this thing happen.  Of course, there is much more to do.  Something like this doesn't end with the restoration of the locomotive.

Bernie

Bernie....watching the video I felt like I was right in the cab with you. I hope to someday see the CNJ business car as nicely restored as the locomotive and the two working together. You need to get it to Crestwood and back on CNJ rails!
Keith

[Bernie Perch]

The business car is supposed to be put in the siding in front of the locomotive and worked on this winter.  The frame is bent on the platform side and needs to be straightened with the proper approved repairs.  If that isn't done first, there is no reason to do the rest unless all that is wanted is a display piece.  It is in somewhat good condition.

Bernie

[Stephen Hussar]

Bernie, is this the "business car," stored on the other side of the crossing?  

[Keith Taylor]

Stephen...yes that is former Jersey Central Business car No. 98

[Bernie Perch]

The #98 business car came from the WK&SRR in Kempton, PA.  It was obtained in trade for a GE 65 ton diesel which the project received from the Koppers Co.  The WK&S, by the way, did a super restoration on the locomotive with a very attractive paint scheme.  This car was trucked in.  Behind the #98 are two Jersey Central coaches which need considerable work.  They came in on their own wheels from Steamtown.  That was a very cold trip which I also had the "privilege" of riding. Keith, I think Mike Bednar thought he was operating the "Black Diamond". 

Bernie

[Keith Taylor]

Bernie....ask Mike about the time his daughter ran a train at 60 mph between Cementon and Caty!

Keith

[Andrew Laverdiere]

How bad was it earlier?

[Stephen Hussar]

Not sure who took this...

http://members.trainorders.com/mgoldman/CNJ%20113%20oldtrain.jpg

[Bernie Perch]

113 was a totally stripped derelict.  One preson stated that it wasn't even a suitable candidate for a static display.  The effort to scrounge and fabricate parts was superhuman and very time consuming.  The firebox had holes in it from the ashes that were left behind.  The tender tank was a rusted mess.  Read some of the articles I mentioned in the RYPN web site.  If necessary, I will relist them here.

Bernie

[Keith Taylor]

Hi Bernie;
I saw the 113 when it was at Locust Summit and I never ever thought it had a chance of running again.
I saw it after a tourist railroad had stripped all of the accessories from the locomotive and to be honest...I didn't think the wheels would even turn!
I am in absolute awe of the restoration that you and the Project 113 folks have done.
Keith

[Andrew Laverdiere]

  Damn. Superhuman is right!

[Richard "Steam" Symmes]

If the 113 could be transformed from a hulk into a running locomotive, the Maine Central #470 ought to be a cinch!  It all comes down to dedicated people with a PLAN, and not just ballyhoo, hoopla and selling T shirts.  (Ed, this got me to break my pledge).

Richard