Passing the Test

As you may have read on the IRM website, our Shay passed its final FRA tests last Sunday and is cleared for operation next year.  Here's an eyewitness account from someone who was there:

Dateline: --- Illinois Railway Museum /E. Union Illinois.--- October 28, 2018

J. Neils Lumber Co. Shay #5 was given her final tests and inspections by the Federal Railway Administration.

As part of the test the Shay made a light trip out the west wye to Jefferson St. and return via the main track and East Switch to sta. trk. 2.  She had the same fireman [Jason Maxwell, now Asst. Supt. of Steam] who worked her last revenue trip 19 years ago.   Ray Weart, Road Foreman of Engines, was engineer.

  The FRA then wanted to test her under load.  It was decided to take the three passenger cars (2 R.I. commuter coaches and a C&NW combine) standing in the station.

Since the only available qualified steam tailhose Conductor (Sam Polonetzky), due to a shortage of electric conductor volunteers, was working as a "swing" conductor  for both the  CAE 460 and CTA 4000's  it become necessary for the two motormen to drop down as Conductor for each other.

The Conductor got and hung markers and tail hose.  The Shay then tied on, quickly aired the train and the brakes were tested.  Orders were issued for a final test run from sta. trk. 2 to Karstens shove to Schmidt main, and return to sta. trk. 2 at E. Union.   Since this trip was still part of the final test, no passengers were to be allowed.  However, just prior to departure a band of hobos, tramps and foamers from the Steam Shop broke into the combine before the railroad special agents could be summoned.

After the trip the Shay was cut off and returned to the Steam Shop where the final paperwork was done.

Oh,  by the way, SHE PASSED!!!

Illinois Railway Museum mow has 2, two, certified, operating, steam locomotives.

Next summer will be fun!

SAMUEL D. POLONETZKY

 Licensed Professional Engineer of Illinois