Let's start with something completely different. Our doodlebug, UP M-35, was being switched out, and we don't often get to see it outside. Unfortunately the weather wasn't very conducive to good photography.
The engine compartment is very cramped. The original Winton prime mover was replaced many years ago.
Doodlebug Dan and Bob Sundelin were eager to get it switched back into the barn, since the roof still leaks a little. But replacing it is part of the long-term restoration plan.
I spent all day working on the roof of the 319, as usual. The second piece of tack molding was installed at the #2 end, as seen here. The sharpest curvature occurs in the middle, where the two pieces meet, so forcing the wood into place was a challenge.
Our friend Chris Chestnut from the Connecticut Trolley Museum was visiting; Nick was showing him around, and then left him with me for a while. So we looked at the 36 and 319, and talked about various things. He was properly impressed with how many different projects were in progress on a dreary November day. Among other things, John Faulhaber was painting the new canvas on the LSE box trailer. So that roof project is nearly done! And Tim showed me the sheet metal pieces for the big roof-mounted destination signs for the 24, and so on.
Here's another view of the end of the 319's roof. The upper curved tack molding is being pried out for replacement. It goes over the lower canvas, so must be replaced. Later, Dan came by to look at the roof project, and helped me set up a clamp for the two molding strips.
So by the end of the day both pieces are in place; a little more planing and sanding may be needed, but then they can be painted. And the focus will shift to the other end of the car.
7 comments:
Randall,
How is the roof on the 36?
Is there much to do over there?
Ted Miles
IRM Member
The roof of the 36 appears to be in good condition, and was not modified at Cleveland, so I'm not planning to do any real work. I would like to give it another coat of some black substance for appearance's sake, however.
I see what you mean about the doodlebug roof--maybe you could run it like the open car or the Liverpool boat train that they run at San Francisco? Is the powerplant on the doodlebug operable?
C Kronenwetter
IRM Member
It's a Doodlebug Dome Car!
Bob
was the roof on the doodlebug constructed like one of the trolleys, wood slats covered with canvas or was canvas stretched directly over the frames or what??
C Kronenwetter
IRM member
The doodlebug roof would be constructed much like a steel trolley car, since the body was built by St. Louis, I believe. The steel carlines are in place; there will be wooden carlines attached to them, followed by lengthwise tongue and groove wood, covered with canvas.
I was hoping somebody would comment on the current condition of the power plant and mechanical equipment. The car has run in the past, but not for several years.
The mechanical and electrical gear of the M35 is in good shape. The roof is what prevents it from running right now.
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