2004
Friday, January 2
308:
The four light fixtures which Frank had painted were installed in the #1 transfer circuit. The rewiring for the wall tested OK, but there seemed to be a problem with the #1 end canopy/sign connections.
I painted the toilet-oval ceiling with first finish yellow; everything above the 93” molding, including the clerestory quadrangles. Looks good. I covered over the open ventilator slots with cardboard, so the main section can be warmed up somewhat. (It was damp outside, but very warm for January).
309:
Finished cutting out the ship splice for the corner, and cut out the corner post stock for the splice.
Saturday, January 3
308:
It was found that the problem was only a defective bulb in the sign socket, even though it was one of the new ones I got from Bruneau. #1 transfer circuit works OK; when the canopy is installed, its light will work also.
I cleaned up the smoker, removed all the plastic, tools, carpet, etc. since we’re done with it for now, apart from windows and tracks. I also reattached the hardware for the panic cord.
I lightly sanded and cleaned the trim on the bulkhead and the 93” molding for sectors T-O (10½ - 18½) and painted it with first finish yellow. Parts where the old paint was still in good shape match very well.
Note: the “vistadome” frame and glass were cleaned, but they were so dirty I’m still not sure whether the frame was painted, or if so, what color. Doesn’t appear to have been painted the same yellow as the ceiling as one might have expected. So I left it alone.
I removed the defective wire for the headlight from the DPDT switch at the #1 end to the “B” terminal and replaced it with new wire. Not yet tested because I didn’t have a headlight available, and need to finish reconnecting the headlight resistor box.
Misc.:
Dave Diamond built a plastic lean-to around the end of the diner.
Monday, 5 January 2004:
308:
1. Painted eight wall light fixtures light green.
2. Brought one of the vestibule dome lights, which had been sitting in the 321, into the shop and stripped the paint off of the frame. The frame had Pullman green, blue and red on it. The white paint on the dome itself is good enough to retain, but it must be handled carefully.
3. Put a second coat of black paint on the third rail beam shoe hanger.
4. Bruneau got out the 308 file and we found a photo in there of the 308 at IMOTAC, probably during the 1970's. It shows the wall light fixtures pointed up. It also shows the First Aid box; I think that the box looks green but RH thinks it looks mahogany. Oh, for a color print.
Tuesday, January 6 (with Frank)
308:
Frank: I removed armrests 17 through 23 (30-window # system), numbering them using the 30-window numbering system as I removed them. I took all of them into the shop and heat-stripped the paint off of all but one. They will need to be sanded before priming and painting; this would be a good job for Jack but it is absolutely imperative that someone show him how we want it done.
Frank also sanded down the dome light frame and primed it.
And painted some more third rail beam parts black.
We looked for a spare light socket in the container but couldn’t find it.
Wednesday, 7 January 2004:
308:
1. I've removed armrests 8 through 13 so far and brought them into the shop. Armrest 7 was stripped by IMOTAC but was badly chipped in the corner; about a year ago I started epoxying the chip but that will need more epoxying work. Two of the seats on this side have replacement frame end castings that aren't painted green, certainly a CA&E repair. They are marked "22 / 341" in yellow crayon, whatever that means. There now are four armrests still in the main compartment (two on each side); of the ones removed there are four that are not stripped yet. All of the removed ones are stored in the wood shop.
2. Kirk Warner and Bruce Lampson hoisted the C21 onto the #2 platform.
3. I put a first coat of blue on the dome light frame; it's now ready to install.
4. The third rail shoe hanger and assorted parts were put outside next to the 306, along with the other third rail beam parts.
We went to Johnson’s house and received a C21E controller (minus the handle), plus a brass casting for a dome light for the 309, and two bulkhead-style advertisements, which we will color copy. He also has seven side light fixtures for the 321 and a dash light casting, which we can have when we’re ready.
Saturday, January 10 (with Frank)
308:
We went to the container and dropped off the controller we just got from Johnson. Picked up the black headlight for testing the 308; also a squirt gun bracket which needs to be wire-wheeled and painted.
I finished closing up the headlight circuit connections under the car. We then tested the circuit at the #1 end with the headlight, and everything worked OK.
I stripped all of the paint from the panelling around the dome light in the #1 vestibule, and touch sanded it.
Frank helped me install the repainted dome light in the vestibule. Circuit works OK.
Frank mostly worked on stripping paint from all of the remaining seat frame arms in the shop.
I worked on installing the rebuilt C21 (from Norm) at the #2 end. Found that the support plate I had made was too thick; it was planed down to 5/8” and taken home for repainting.
I also found the spare light fixture in the 321; taken home for eventual repainting. We now have enough for the 308.
Misc.:
Can’t seem to find the 321 light fixtures.
Tuesday, January 13
308:
I took measurements of the #2R side door for preparing an engineering diagram for new as-built side doors for the non-motorman’s doors.
I painted the planed side of the C-21 support plate with primer.
Worked on sanding down a couple of the armrests.
And talked to Bruneau about various things.
Saturday, January 17
308:
I worked on installing the C-21 at the #2 end. Drilled holes, installed the plate, and put the controller in place. Still not wired in. Started looking at replacing the wiring from the junction box to the controller.
I left the current version of my drawing for the side doors in the office for Buzz.
I went to the container and looked at the 310 vestibule door. May be useful for making the 308 side doors. And emptied the tub.
321:
In the container, I located the light fixtures. There were 13 there; there are two mounted in the car, plus one at home, for a total of 16. We need 19, so three more will be needed from Johnson.
Tuesday, January 20
309:
Bruneau and I went to the jewelry car to look for a 14” glass globe, but there were none.
Saturday, January 24
308:
I did more paint stripping on the ceiling of the #1 vestibule. Need to get more sandpaper, then will be ready to paint.
Worked on trying to rewire the controller; with the loom in the condition it is now in, not possible.
Buzz came by and looked at the doors and remeasured the openings. We also looked at the vestibule doors on the 309 as guides to the construction. He will get the white oak he needs for the rails, stiles, and bottom panels, and charge it to the 308. He may also be able to get the wood for the third rail beams.
309:
I did a lot of work on the corner post flooring; finished (more or less) chiseling away the rotted wood, adjusted the first two patch pieces, and got them to fit in place. I now have good samples for making more patch pieces to build up the floor.
Tuesday, January 27
309:
I cut out several new pieces of wood for the floor using the big bandsaw; taken home for painting.
Misc.:
Talked to Bruneau about the possibility of running IT cars (233, 234, and/or Peoria) for the trolley pageant.
Saturday, January 31
308:
I disassembled the end of the loom for the wires to the controller, then replaced those that needed replacing, and connected them. The controller itself seems to be wired correctly, but the 600V feed has a problem, so far undiagnosed.
309:
I was able to put the first three layers of flooring in place. Cut out some more wood for farther under the floor, taken home for painting.
Wednesday, February 11
308:
I found out what was wrong with the supply circuit for the #2 controller; will fix it next time.
Misc.:
Talked to Bruneau about putting motors or other parts into my new container. We need to be sure of the floor loading.
Saturday, February 14
308:
I did a lot more sanding on the ceiling and walls of the #1 vestibule.
I rewired the 600v supply for the #2 controller, using a piece of 2kV rated Diesel cable I got from Max. Tested OK. (Well, I say that – no one was around, but I could hear a contactor pick up on each point, and the reverser throws, so what could possibly be wrong?) I noticed that not only is it easy to pass the first point when starting, but it’s also easy to pass the fifth point. The operators will need some retraining.
Note: I found after installing the controller cover that the control pipe cutout couldn’t be opened all the way – some combination of where the controller and the brake stand were mounted was off by about ¼”. I had to cut another ¼” off the end of the handle. It had already been cut short, as had the one at the other end; this indicates that these cutout cocks dated from when the car originally had C21 controllers. C6 controllers are smaller and don’t have this problem. The 309’s handles are not shortened.
I found the little piece of pipe which goes around the lag screw holding the controller frame to the wall and installed it.
Finished sanding in the vestibule, and painted the non-motorman’s side wall and window frames, all of the ceiling in the center, etc. with primer.
309:
I cut out the next layer of pieces for the floor.
Tuesday, February 17
308:
I started on the next wall light circuit (non-transfer, 15-28). I installed the first socket, at sector 28, then decided it would be more efficient to do things in stages. I soldered on all of the pigtails I had prepared for the next four lights, then attached the heat-shrink tubing until I ran out. Need a little more.
While looking for something I’d dropped under the seat at corner 28 (governor), I found some interesting parts:
A control pipe hose and gladhand, needed for the #1 end. Still need one more for the 321.
A metal hook, which I guess is for opening journal box lids.
A leather strap assembly for the buzzer cord in the vestibule. I took it home with the remaining new leather strap material left over from installing the roof cables, so I can make some replicas for both 308 and 309. I’ll keep the original as a relic.
Misc.:
Spoke to Jeff Brady briefly; dropped off a copy of a Rail and Wire article for Bruneau to check.
Tuesday, February 24
308:
I attached two new replacement leather straps for the buzzer cord, one at each end of the 308. They work!
I finished installing the next wall light circuit (non-transfer, 15-28). I connected and installed all sockets, tested the circuit with the light box, then wired it in. Only one more to go!
I looked under the seat at corner 28 some more, and came up with two paper items. Taken home for cleaning and investigation.
An accident report form for bystanders, mimeographed on a paper slip about 3 x 5. Needs to be cleaned carefully, as it’s pretty dirty.
A red Hot Box tag. Folded and covered with grease, not surprisingly; needs further study.
Saturday, February 28 (with Maggie)
308:
I checked on the car and picked up the spare light sockets and fixtures for preparation.
Misc.:
We looked at progress on the 428 in the steam shop and Jerry Lynn’s work on the Salem Diner. Then we went to the Soiree. I talked to Dave Shore about training.
Tuesday, March 2
308:
I worked on the lock for the motorman’s side door at the #2 end. Better, but not quite done.
I finally installed the window shade at sector 4½.
Misc.:
I looked at the IT cars in Barn 6. From east to west: Com Ed 4, 757, L7, 101, 233, Peoria, 234. (The first two will undoubtedly move.) Switching out should not be too hard. 233 and 234 have truck-mounted brake cylinders; the 233 has four outside hung cylinders, the 234 two inside hung. The three cars are already made up, it appears.
Spoke to Bruneau and Jeff Brady.
Saturday, 6 March 2004 (Frank):
308:
1. Initial modifications and test assembly of the #1R stepwell using the replacement sidewall were done. It was determined which holes will be retained, which will need to be welded up and which will need to be drilled. A couple of minor modifications were made. Also, some parts were wire-wheeled in preparation for eventual painting.
309:
1. The BRF is at $7,123 in the red and the DRF is at $100.44 positive, leaving us with a deficit of almost exactly $7,000. Kutella's "Adopt A Car" program will be in the next issue of "Rail & Wire," which is going to press soon, and he said that Henry Vincent claimed that the Valley Model Railroad Club in Clintonville substation might be interested in sponsoring a car (at $1000), most likely a CA&E car. I will talk to Henry on Wednesday and try to emphasize that the 309 would be a good choice... we'll see what happens. Of course, working against us is the fact that Jeff Obarek is actually a member of VMRRC; the 431 doesn't need any money but that doesn't necessarily mean anything.
Misc.:
1. For my Advanced CAD class at WIU, I decided to measure and draw an MCB truck. I wanted to use the truck off the 318 that was sitting in the field, however I discovered that it is no longer in the field - it is under the 160! So I made a number of measurements of one of the streetcar-size MCB trucks sitting on NSL 1502 that are earmarked for the Gary car; I will finish these drawings during the week and develop a 3D drawing of the truck over the next two months. Depending on how hard this is, I may draw a CA&E truck later on my own time.
Sunday, 7 March 2004:
308:
1. Assembly of the stepwell was completed. Several new holes were drilled; it was decided not to bother welding up the unused holes since all the original holes consist of two or three closely-spaced holes anyway. The only remaining work is wire-wheeling, painting, and heating and bending the bottom corner around the step edge.
Monday, 8 March 2004: (Frank)
308:
The stepwell was wire-wheeled, disassembled (replacement parts only), and primed, after which the treads - which were not primed - were spray painted silver.
2. Armrests #11, 13 and 14, which had previously been stripped, were sanded and the lower portion of each was primed.
Misc.:
1. I did more work on the drawing of the MCB truck for the Gary car.
Bruneau and Bruce went with me to look in the 229. We found two GE 9-pin control jumpers and a bus jumper. The bus jumper works great, and since it has blue and red paint on it it's obviously ex-CA&E. One of the control jumpers doesn't work at all because the locating pin is on the bottom instead of the top, and the other control jumper fits but won't lock into place. We might, however, be able to modify it to work. Neither of these are ex-CA&E. There are also two CA&E controllers under a pile of spare brooms for the E223 in the 229, but I couldn't tell whether they were C6's or C165's.
Tuesday, 9 March 2004:
308:
1. The stepwell was painted black.
2. The old stepwell side wall, which we replaced, was put in the container for storage. It should not be thrown out or scrapped, since it could be repaired if really needed.
3. Windows #11 and 12 were brought to the shop and the exterior of each was stripped, sanded and primed. These are windows that we put temporary paint jobs on in 2002 for the calendar photo. The interior of each window had been repainted within the past year and does not need work.
4. Window #13 was brought into the shop, stripped and sanded. The latch corner was found to be rotted out, so epoxy was poured into it; it will take
about a week to cure, after which some more epoxy should be poured since this lot didn't fill it up.
5. We tested out the C21 controller again, and comparing it with the C6 at the #1 end revealed that it is going backwards (so to speak). Otherwise it
appears to sequence properly.
6. The headlight switch cover from the #1 end was needle-chipped, wire-wheeled and primed.
7. The headlight switch knob from the #1 end was painted white.
8. The upper portion of armrests #11, 13 and 14 were primed.
309:
1. I primed four pieces of floor (deck) blocking for the #2L corner which had been cut out.
Misc.:
1. We looked over the control jumper that Bruneau gave us on Monday. It is about a foot too long, and will have to be shortened lest it drag on the ground. However, it does appear to fit into the sockets correctly and should be perfectly usable. We tested it, using the 308 to sequence the 321, and it worked fine. This will allow us to run 321 in train with 308 and 309.
2. I talked to John Kemp, who has begun working with the 749 crew. He lives in Sun City Huntley and is part of the Sun City Model Railroad Club. SCMRC has meetings on the first Monday of every month and always tries to get a guest speaker; that might be a good venue for a slide show or some other presentation geared towards creating interest in and/or donations for the CA&E cars. I have his phone number and told him we would try and call him. They have the summer off, so this would have to be in April or May, or September or later.
Tuesday, March 9 (with Frank)
308:
We sequenced the new controller. 0 and 8 are reversed, but otherwise OK.
We also tested the control jumper Frank found, by connecting the 308 to the 321; works fine. (Doesn’t fit real well at #1 end, but cleaning should fix this.) However, it’s about a foot longer than the standard CA&E control jumper, and probably needs to be shortened.
Misc.:
Finished wood work on next group of pieces for the 309 floor; left in the shop for Frank to paint.
Looked at the step and windows Frank is working on.
Wednesday, 10 March 2004:
308:
1. Bolted stepwell together for final time, used hammer to bend bottom front corner of new sidewall over step and put second coat of black on the entire stepwell. It is now ready to install.
2. Put first coat of medium green on the three armrests that had been sanded and primed.
3. Put first coat of Fleet Grey on two windows that had been sanded and primed.
4. Put first coat of blue on the #2-end headlight switch cover.
5. Put second coat of white on #2-end headlight switch knob; this is now ready to install.
6. Buzz Morisette and I spent a while discussing how to build the new side doors for the 308. He (along with several others he's consulted) is of the opinion that the drawing of the panel construction he was given would not be workable. We looked at the 310 bulkhead door in the container, and after looking at photos I came to the conclusion that the 310 interior door differs significantly in details from the 308 side doors. For one, the depth of the panel vs. the side rails is much greater on the 308 side doors, about the same as the panel vs. rail depth on the 308 train doors. Buzz will be in contact with us for further instructions.
7. I talked to Jeff Obarek about sign-ups for running the cars; not counting the three days we're signed up to run, 12 out of 15 days have been filled for the motorman's position. Chris and Dan Buck are planning on being qualified, and other candidates for qualification include John Fenlaciki, Henry Vincent and Andy Sunderland.
Saturday, March 13 (with Frank)
308:
The rebuilt stepwell for the #1R corner was taken over to the car, holes were drilled in the inboard sidewall, and it was installed. There were no fitting problems at all. (Both)
I cleaned up the main compartment and vestibules, removing all plastic, carpet, and most of the tools and other supplies in hopes that the car cleaners will appear next week. I measured the two control jumpers: the “new” one is 20” longer than the old one.
A second coat of medium green was put on the three armrests. (F)
A second coat of Fleet Grey was put on the two windows; these are now ready for reinstallation. (F)
A second coat of blue was put on the #2-end headlight switch cover. (F)
The sleet scraper piston from the (#2R) third rail beam that we removed from the 308 last year was wire-wheeled and was partially primed. (F)
309:
More work on fitting floor pieces for the corner. Almost done. (R)
Misc.:
Nick Kallas says that the advertisement for the 309 "Take The Throttle" program will appear in the next (March-April) issue of "Rail & Wire" - it has already been laid out by the Heiers. He also asks that we do some sort of short article (with one or two photos) about work being done on the car, which would necessarily have to be about the cornerpost rebuilding.
Frank took the remains of the 318’s C21 controller to the container. He also took pictures of several projects.
I took home the “new” control jumper so it could be shortened.
Tuesday, March 16
308:
I tried for a while to remove the torn window shade at sector 24, but without success.
I brought out the repainted windows #11 and #12 and installed them in sectors 24 and 25. 25 has a good window shade, so I installed the window shade tracks and a full set of screws. I also put in more screws in various locations that are complete, i.e. all wood painted and working shades.
I gave Bruneau the diagrams for the folding signs; he decided it was best to provide the metal shop with a sample, so I removed the set of signs from the #1 end of the 308 and gave them to him. I’m asking for 3 complete sets, which will supply both the 308 and 321.
We looked at the window (#13) which he had epoxied several times more; it looks OK, ready for painting. Ran out of time to do so today.
Saturday, March 20
308:
I put all of the loose window shade tracks in place with at least one screw apiece, and removed a torn shade roller, in anticipation of the car cleaners coming through. Some more picking up.
I worked on the #2L door. It now closes completely, though you have to slam it. Needs to be sanded down a little more. And the deadbolt engages, so I could remove the board that was holding the door closed.
I found the dog for the hand brake under the seat at sector 1, so it was installed on the floor of the vestibule.
I worked on the #2R door. I got the latch on the door to work using a coach key from outside; still need a keyhole shield. The deadbolt still didn’t engage properly, although I repositioned the striker on the door post. Taken home for adjustment.
I rewired the controller and tested it, so it now goes in the correct direction. I think.
Ray Schmid and Tom Disch worked on cleaning up all the sawdust in the 308. Got most of it, still some cleaning to do.
I spoke to Buzz briefly about the new doors. I told him to do what he thinks best on the lower panels. He’s started working on the rails and stiles.
309:
I fit the next floor piece for the corner; painted it with primer before installation. One more to go.
I replaced the bulbs in the ceiling fixture in the smoker with the new 36W 130V bulbs, since Frank Sirinek thinks ordinary house bulbs are dangerous and liable to explode or something. And I checked all the others, so as to avoid more ranting from that lunatic.
I cleaned out the two glass globes in the main compartment.
I installed the brass U bolt to hold a CA&E squirt gun in place and attached the washers and nuts. They need to be soldered in place and then the bolts can be trimmed short.
Chris Buck and Dave Nieto washed all the windows. They’ve probably never been so clean.
Misc.:
I took measurements on the truck Frank is drawing for a school project.
Tuesday, March 23
308:
I installed the modified strike plate and after adjusting its position a little, it worked. I am now able to lock the door with a switch key, so the bicycle chain has been retired. Bruneau gave me a keyhole guard plate to install.
Now that the #2 platform is locked, I could install the large window shade by the sliding door.
Bruneau gave me a quote on the folding signs: for 3 sets, $190.88 apiece; for 5 sets, $165 apiece.
I took home the three repainted armrests, which need two coats of black, as well as three unpainted ones which need to be sanded down.
309:
I installed a new leather strap on the buzzer cord in the #1 vestibule.
Saturday, March 27
308:
I put a spare window in the slot for #13 (sector 26) since that’s facing the sidewalk, and the Museum will be open next weekend.
I remounted the large window shade in the #1 vestibule.
I installed the keyhole guard plate on the #2R door.
I sanded down the ceiling on the motorman’s side of the #1 vestibule some more, and painted it with primer.
I painted the window and the siding below it on the bulkhead of the #1R side of the vestibule (blue).
Dan Fenlaciki (son of Jon Fenlaciki) cleaned all the windows.
Buzz showed me some parts that he was gluing up for the side doors. So far so good, I guess.
I put a first coat of primer on the outside of window #13 in the shop.
309:
I moved the car west a few feet and coupled it up to the 308, to keep visitors from wandering back behind the cars. Also I mounted all of the signs in the correct locations. Now ready for visitors.
I worked more on the flooring. New pieces cut out and installed. Almost done; I need a 6½” or 7” by 3/8” bolt to hold the flooring in place.
Misc.:
Took a couple of pictures of some switching, since I had the camera along.
Tuesday, March 30
308:
I installed the relettered cover for the headlight switch at the #1 end, with the repainted handle.
Did some more hand sanding in the #1 vestibule.
Bruneau gave me a box of whistle valves to test. I found one which worked and took it to the car. I also selected the rest of the pipes that I’ll need to finish installation.
309:
Looked for a 7” by 3/8” bolt; I’ll have to thread some 3/8” rod.
Misc.:
One more measurement for Frank: from rail head to top rail of truck frame: 20½”
Saturday, April 3
308:
I installed the piping for the whistle valve at the #2 end and tested it. The valve doesn’t always close completely, but the leak is so slow it may be OK.
I retested the brake stand at the #2 end. I forgot that the brake pipe side of the clock doesn’t work; it’s probably plugged at the gasket. But the brakes work fine.
I installed the two flag/marker light brackets at the #2 end. The wooden blocks still need to be painted red.
Painting in the #1 vestibule. I sanded down the sliding door and painted it blue. I also painted much of the surfaces already painted with primer: around most of the dome light and the side walls, the ceiling over the non-motorman’s side, over the “R” door, most of the end window frame, and part of the ceiling over the motorman.
309:
I threaded a piece of 3/8” rod and installed it to hold the floor in place; worked well. Also trimmed the other piece needed for that layer. Primer on all hidden surfaces.
Misc.:
Took home a large soldering iron to work on the control jumper.
I brought out three repainted armrests and the two window shade tracks #25 (sector 11). Not yet installed. Buzz is working on the door, part time.
Tuesday, April 6
309:
I took some measurements and cut out the final piece of the flooring at the #2L corner. Not yet fastened in.
Bruneau gave me a box of 2” #18 FH wood screws, which I used to attach the flooring blocks already installed to the bumper plate.
308:
Since there were several places at the #2 end of the 308 that still needed FH screws through the bumper plate, I installed them also, on both sides.
I installed the window shade tracks at sector 11.
Misc.:
I left a skeleton key with Bruneau for Jack to use to open the 308. He’s going to start working again.
Wednesday, April 7 (Jack B.)
He put a second coat of primer on the window frame #13.
First coat of primer on all remaining arm rests, I believe.
Did some more scraping on the ceiling, sector 3-4-25-26.
Saturday, April 10 (with Frank)
308:
I installed the rope for the whistle valve.
Frank installed the three repainted arm rests.
He also did some sanding and scraping in the #2 vestibule, then painted these surfaces with primer. Also the new screws in the bumper plate, and the moldings around the train door window.
I reset the seat back at sector 5, which had come out of its track at the wall. The problem is that a piece is broken out of the casting. For a (temporary) fix, I’ll install a wooden block to keep this from happening again.
I took measurements for making new window shade tracks for sector 17, since the originals are missing.
309:
I cut out the patch piece for the post to make a tenon, and started making the mortise in the floor section. Doesn’t quite fit yet, but going well.
Frank painted the new block for the floor; left to dry.
I also started drilling holes for the bolts to hold up the step.
Misc.:
I spoke to John Kemp about giving a talk to the Sun City club on Monday.
Tuesday, April 13
308:
I removed the remaining pieces of veneer on the wide window post at sector 8-9 with the heat gun. I spread out the new roll of veneer and cut out a piece for this window post (8¾ x 28¾”). Needs to be flattened out.
I cut out of a piece of wood for the seat frame at sector 5. 1 x 1 x 4¾”. Taken home.
Misc.:
I asked Bruneau about the alternate locations article, but he hasn’t corrected it yet.
Wednesday, April 14 (Jack B.)
He put a first coat of finish grey on the window frame #13.
Second coat of primer on all remaining arm rests, I believe.
Started applying filler to the ceiling, sector 3-4-25-26.
Thursday, April 15
308:
I painted the hinged window frame on the smoker bulkhead (main compartment side) with white primer.
I also painted the new veneer (above the pier) in sector 8-9 with white primer, including the light fixture.
I wanted to install the new veneer on the window post but I couldn’t find the contact cement.
I found the other leather strap for the buzzer cord under corner seat 14. It was indeed a continuous loop, and was in pretty good shape, so I installed it at the #1 end, replacing the repro.
Installed two repainted ventilators in the clerestory at sectors 1-2 and 27-2.
I took the black headlight, which had been stored in the toilet, back to the container. And dumped out the water.
Tuesday, April 20
308:
I sanded down the two new window shade tracks for sector 17 which I had made, trimmed them to measurements I made in the car, and drilled countersunk holes. I left them in the new shop area for Jack to paint.
309:
I tried to remove both knobs for the headlight switches, to take home for painting white, but the #2 one doesn’t come loose for some reason.
Worked some more on fitting the new block for the corner post; I took the patch piece to the shop and trimmed it on the bandsaw; still doesn’t fit, but close.
Misc.:
Bruneau gave me a couple of minor corrections to the alternate locations article. Now all I need is pictures.
Wednesday, April 21 (Jack B.)
He put a second coat of finish grey on the window frame #13.
He painted the seven arm rests, some of them with upper green, but that’s OK for a first coat.
First coat of primer on the ceiling, sector 3-4-25-26, plus he started (and nearly finished) sanding and scraping sector 1-2-27-28.
Saturday, April 24 (with Frank)
308:
I glued the new piece of veneer to the wide window post, sector 8-9.
Frank did some repainting on the window frame #13.
He put a first/second coat of lower green on the seven arm rests in the shop.
309:
More work on fitting the corner post pieces; almost done. This includes sawing and rasping on the block behind the corner post.
We examined the last doubtful contactor (#2-5) and decided it’s OK. Frank removed his red tag.
Misc.:
Took Frank into town for the Rules Review. He passed (98).
In the evening, we both attended the Annual Meeting. Spoke to Johnson about 321 parts, to Dan and Chris Buck about training, etc.
Charlie King gave me an original CA&E cutback to Forest Park notice from 1953, printed both sides on card stock. Taken home for reproduction and safekeeping.
Sunday, April 25 (with Frank)
308:
I put a first coat of white primer on the sector 8-9 veneer on the corner post, and a second coat on the piece above it.
We tried to move a good third-rail beam from the 321 to the 308 #2R corner and install it. To my chagrin, it turns out the 308 has a shorter wheelbase than the 321, and the beams are therefore shorter. We measured wheelbases: the 308 and 309 are 6’6”, the 321 is of course 7’. I had thought they were the same; I never actually needed to know the wheelbase before. Need to contact Buzz; the measurements we gave him for the third rail beams are 6” too short for the 321.
309:
I finished drilling the holes for the step in the new wood. Need correct bolts, which I ordered through Bruneau.
The corner post and the block behind it now fit properly. Drilled a ½” hole through the new block. Still need to drill a couple of holes into the post piece. All bare wood was painted with brown primer and left to dry.
Misc.:
Frank H. took Frank Sirinek to the container; he needed a couple of bell cord hangers for the 460.
Showed Andy Sunderland how to open and lock up the cars, etc.
I paid my dues for the year. I took the Rules Test and passed (98).
Tuesday, April 27
308:
I removed the spare window at sector 26 and installed the repainted new one (#13). Still needs to have the spring latch attached. I also installed the window shade properly here so it works.
309:
I sanded down both the post patch piece and the block behind it, then installed them. I drilled some starter holes so the two lag screws go into the post patch piece. The upper one probably needs to be replaced with one about an inch longer. I also drilled a hole for a 3/8” through bolt, not yet installed. Looks good!
Bob gave me two new bolts for the step; I inserted them but they don’t go in all the way; still working on that. Note to self: for the time being, need to raise the trap a few inches in order to turn the flap back.
Misc.:
I gave Bob the original for the 1953 cutback announcement, plus the copies I had made. They weren’t laminated because the laminator machine at Kinko’s wasn’t working.
Saturday, 8 May 2004
308:
1. Seven armrests that had been repainted were reinstalled in the 308.
2. Two areas in the vestibules were painted blue: the interior of the #2R train-door post (first coat) and the #1R bulkhead, not including the door post
for the sliding door because the horizontal window shade was mounted on it and I couldn't remember how to get it off (second coat). This will allow us to re-mount the flag box.
3. I sanded and primed a few spots that had been Bondoed including a spot just under the #1R end window and both "sides" of a hole in the #2 end train door.
4. I took the sleet scraper piston out of the shop and put it in Barn 4.
5. Another seat end-frame casting is broken. I can't remember the seat number; it is a wall side casting, and a chunk is broken out of the bottom of
the track. Another candidate for replacement, which brings the number of broken seat endframe castings in the 308 to two.
6. The new folding signs arrived! Bruneau is actually not happy because Bruce got them from R&B before they were completely finished! So there are a couple of things we need to trim up, plus they didn't give us any rod stock as they were going to so we'll need to buy some. Most of the fixes should involve small amounts of weld or Bondo where the hinge tubes are welded onto the sign sheets. Otherwise they look great, and they don't have mill scale on them so we can just prime them without having to do any sand blasting. Bruneau is going to take the money for all five out of our cars' funds to alleviate any potential problems with getting RELIC to pay, and then RELIC's payment will be directed into the car funds as a donation. The bill was $825.
309:
1. I touched up the blue on the #2 end anticlimber where the new screws had been installed.
2. The train was broken in preparation for moving the 309 to Barn 4 for its inspection.
321:
1. I painted the trim strip below the belt rail on the R side with white primer for most of its length in preparation for painting it cream. The belt rail will also need this, but desperately needs to be cleaned.
Misc.:
1. At Nick's urging, I got a conductor's uniform out of the pop room in the office. It is ex-MILW; I didn't actually try on the pants, though the jacket fits, so hopefully it will fit. I also got a nice conductor's cap.
Sunday, 9 May 2004:
309:
1. With Bruce Lampson's help we switched some spam cans out of the way and ran the 309 over to the pit to do inspection. Andy Sunderland helped with the inspection. We didn't finish the inspection, but did finish the #1 truck and most of the electrical stuff. The following items of interest were found:
a. The bolts holding in the pole pieces on motors #1 and #2 (the new Steiner ones) were all loose, or at least not greatly tightened. These were all tightened and no harm seems to have been done.
b. The wear plates on the #1 truck were found to be quite worn resulting in some forward-backward play in the truck bolster.
c. The #1 controller seems to have some problems on the ninth point; it arcs continuously while in that point.
d. The governor is set to a differential of only 10 pounds (90#-100#) so this ought to be adjusted to about 15 pounds.
e. On the #1 end pilot, the bolt holding on the R side angle brace was actually missing a nut! The bolt was in the hole but the brace was held up simply by lateral force against the bolt. A nut was found and installed.
f. The keeper chain on the cover of the #2 switch group cover broke. I don't have much confidence in the latches on this particular cover so I will try and see about replacing this chain as a safety measure.
g. The motorman's brake valve at the #2 end still leaks badly, particularly in RELEASE.
h. Six side windows are stuck - 8, 10, 12, 23, 28, and one I can't remember offhand (it's in the inspection report).
2. After the #1 truck was inspected and all four main journals were oiled, the car was wyed and put back on the pit for completion of the inspection.
Monday, 10 May 2004
308:
1. The car's original M2A triple valve and the pipe bracket were extracted from the air brake reefer. The pipe bracket was needle-chipped and Bob Bruneau constructed a very stout wooden crate to carry the two pieces. Jeff Hakner suggested via telephone that shipping the crate by UPS would get it to Branford on Friday so this was planned.
2. The two newly built window shade tracks, previously primed, were sanded smooth.
309:
1. Inspection process continued with all parts except for some lubrication completed. Rainy weather precluded moving the car outside to the pit lead to do oiling. Bob Bruneau and Bruce Lampson provided considerable assistance. The following items of note were found:
a. There was a tip in the #2 contactor that had a broken spring and was partly out of contact; it was replaced with a spare from the electrical parts car.
b. There was found to be arcing in the controller on the ninth point. This was determined to be a design flaw and not something that could be fixed practically.
c. Adjustment of the governor (set 90#-100#) was attempted but it was adjusted all the way up; the feed valve was adjusted to a brake pipe pressure of exactly 70 lbs.
Monday, May 10 (with Frank)
309:
We tested the controller; the arcing on the ninth point occurs where the finger for the eighth point opens. This just seems to be a feature of the design - there’s nothing we can do about it.
We talked about the loose bolts on the Steiner motors – the only loose ones were on the angled surfaces, they don’t actually hold the pole pieces in place. It’s not obvious from the outside what they really do. I suppose they must hold cable clamps for the wires between the pole pieces.
Misc.:
I looked at the new folding signs, and arranged the financing with Bruneau.
We also talked about transporting the triple valve via airline.
Tuesday, 11 May 2004
308:
The crate containing the M2A triple valve and pipe bracket was sent via UPS to Branford.
2. Two of the new hinge brackets made by R&B Metals were primed so that the Al Simms sign can be mounted on the #2 end of the car.
3. The two newly built window shade tracks were painted with white primer, as was the train door at the #2 end.
4. A metal L-shaped stepwell rim was found in a pile of junk in the shop, and this is apparently the one (one of the ones?) we had lost. I don't know which corner it goes on, but it was wire-wheeled and primed and is ready to be painted black.
5. Bob Bruneau gave us a C21 controller handle out of his stocks, since the controller from Johnson didn't have one.
309:
1. The inspection process was concluded when the car was moved outside by Bruce Lampson and Joy Manufacturing #2 (peak load rates precluded motoring the car) and lubrication was completed with help from Bob Bruneau. Bruce then towed 309 over to Yard 8 and swapped 308 and 309, putting 308 at the door on track 84 and 309 behind it. None of the three cars are coupled. Ben Teeters helped in this switch move.
Tuesday, May 11 (with Frank)
308:
I installed the spring latch on the new window at sector 26.
I replaced the 321I replacement window at sector 9 with one from the 309, which looks much better.
I noticed that Jack has completed stripping the center ceiling sections, and also finished painting them with first primer. He also painted first green on the new veneer, sector 8-9.
I replaced the control pipe hose at the #1 end with the correct type (the one found on Feb. 17) so this end can be coupled to another car.
309:
I removed the two bolts for the step, so I can drill out the holes better.
I drilled some holes and made a temporary installation of the hand rail at the #2L corner, so the display sign could be mounted properly, now that this corner is towards the sidewalk.
Saturday, May 15
308:
I checked and topped off the compressor oil. I then ran the car over to Barn 4 and put it on the pit for inspection.
I removed the bottom covers from both motors and checked that the bottom pole clearance is fine. There are no loose bolts.
I did brake adjustment on both trucks, thus reducing the standing brake travel from 5¼” to 3¾” (should be 4”, but that won’t take long, I guess). Several brake shoes may need to be replaced within the next year.
Pulled the car outside for lubrication; helped by Dan Buck (from here on). All armature bearings, axle caps, and main bearings. The gears look good; didn’t need more crater. All armature bearing surfaces looked good; nice and wet.
Dan noticed that the train line hose which connects to the pipe alongside the coupler (#2 end) was being chafed by part of the truck. We loosened up the connections and rotated the pipe so the hose bends up rather than down. This should fix the problem for the time being; needs to be watched.
One of the angle braces for the pilot was being held in place by a bolt that was too small and loose; replaced.
We reattached the chain for the hand brake at the #2 end, although it still won’t work, of course.
I checked on the mounting of the old set of folding signs at the #2 end; they were then stored in the car. I need to make a top latch, pronto. One molding strip needs to be let in.
Note to self: the dash light casting is probably about ½” to 1” too far to the right (towards center of car); this is evidently a result of centering it between the structural posts (as I was constructing the siding) rather than between the vertical molding strips on the outside. Try not to make same mistake on 321.
Car was then run back to Barn 8 and coupled to the 309. We had never used the #1 end before, so the cut-out cocks under the floor at this end had never been opened; I needed a pry bar to move them. Brakes worked well in train.
Made one trip on the main line for training purposes. No problems.
309:
Recoupled to 308 and used for one trip on the main line for training. No problems – except dewirements: Putting the train away, we dewired at the electric switch diverging and at the 5-6 switch, as well as the usual places: tail track and 7-8 switch.
Misc.:
Dan Buck approved as motorman.
Both cars need cleaning and straightening before revenue service on the 29th.
Monday, 17 May 2004 (Frank at Shore Line Trolley Museum, East Haven, Connecticut)
308:
1. Jeff Hakner and I worked on repairing the 308's original triple valve that had been shipped out to Branford. We machined a lap for the graduating valve out of cast iron and lapped the graduating valve into the slide valve, which appears to have worked. Unfortunately, Jeff's test rig is not set up yet, and he also needs to lap the slide valve into the cylinder. He will continue to work on this himself and, when done, will ship the triple valve (and pipe bracket) back to IRM.
Tuesday, May 18
308:
I started removing tools, paint, parts, and garbage from both cars in preparation for revenue service. It’s amazing how much can accumulate.
I brought over the two window shade tracks for sector 17; they need a little trimming.
309:
I got a long drill from the shop, and drilled out the two holes for the step bolts. The bolts were then inserted into the holes; this includes installing the top wood piece. Ready to install the step.
I also found a longer 3/8” bolt for the patch piece.
Saturday, May 22 (with Frank)
308:
I tried fixing the gasket for the clock at the #2 end, but the brake pipe pressure still doesn’t read.
Buzz came by and was looking at the vestibule doors.
Frank painted the number on the #2 end in black.
I trimmed the two window shade tracks; left for Frank to paint.
I removed the defective window shade at sector 3.
Cleaning inside the car; still more to do. Took home the can of lower green so I can paint the three remaining arm rests.
Frank noticed that there seemed to be some slight leaks from the cut-out cocks at the #2 end, so I cut out both hoses under the car.
309:
I installed the step at the #2 end. Helped briefly by Wally Osty.
The previous bolt still wasn’t long enough; I found a still longer bolt and installed it in the patch piece. Outside surface was painted with brown primer; then the hand rail was reinstalled.
Misc.:
Wally was installing phone wire for the PA system in the barn. Frank helped with removing debris from the bridge.
Visited by a man from Arden.
Tuesday, May 25 (with Frank)
308:
I did a little more sweeping. Moved signs, the light stand, etc.
I installed the old set of folding signs at the #2 end. This included moving the upper latch from the #1 end, since I haven’t made a new one yet.
Painted black on the various new screws in the bumper plate at the #2 end, plus some of the underbody parts that needed black.
Frank painted the number 308 in yellow on the #2 end.
Misc.:
Ralph Taylor stopped by to pick up the two sets of folding signs they had ordered. However, the box of brackets got lost, so later I took four brackets and dropped them off at his house, since he lives in Naperville.
Saturday, May 29 (with Frank)
308:
I installed the remaining three arm rests, at sectors 6, 23, and 26. These all need a second finish coat eventually.
I installed two new display signs for the end card holders (“The year is 1941”).
Frank checked the compressor oil.
Operated in revenue service with the 309. Motorman Jeff Obarek, conductor Ron Seevers, trainman Randy Allegrezza. Four trips, I think. We chased one of them. No problems.
309:
Installed two car cards (paper, actually) “The year is 1948”.
Cleaning and straightening; operated with 308.
321:
I removed various loads of stuff from the 321 and put them into the 4001, including the pile of veneer pieces from Jack Biesterfeld, which are pretty much useless. Cleaning and straightening – looks much better inside.
For operation, I moved the wall lockers from the toilet bulkhead wall to parallel with the track against window 10.
I signed up to put the 321 over the pit on Sunday, June 13th for inspection.
Sunday, May 30
308/309:
Operated in revenue service briefly; Steve Jirsa and Jim Nauer trading off as motorman and conductor, I guess.
Misc.:
I stopped at Relic to visit Ralph Taylor. Viewed progress on the 316. The first aid box from the 20 is missing, but the 316’s is painted.
They have removed all of the linoleum from the 316. We talked about cooperating on purchasing new material. I said I’d need two cars’ worth.
Monday, May 31 (with Frank)
308:
I trimmed the window sill piece for the end window #2L and put it in place, but it still needs some trimming so the door can be opened.
I installed the thermometer and all of the ticket clips in the main compartment.
Frank checked the compressor oil.
Operated in revenue service with the 309 out to the station, then a quick trip to Jefferson and back, and we decided to put it away, due to intermittent rain. Trainman Henry Vincent.
A North Shore first aid box won’t work, it’s the wrong size. I took home the frame around the box for repainting.
309:
I had noticed that the 87” molding was coming loose from the ceiling in sector 4-6, so I inserted some new nails to hold it in place.
Since it was raining, I went on top of the cars to check for leaks in the barn roof. Nothing significant was found, but in the process the top folding step at the #2L corner broke off. That was briefly exciting. Need larger screws, perhaps some wood work.
Cleaning and straightening; operated with 308.
321:
I cut out Masonite panels to cover up the gaps in the siding for the #1 end and sector 14.
I installed a stick from side to side to hold the lockers so they can’t possibly fall over. Also works as a coat hanger rod.
Tuesday, June 1
308:
I painted all of the bad sections of veneer in the main compartment with upper green. Doesn’t cover very well on bare wood, but it’s an improvement. Roughly sectors 26-27, 24-25, 20-21, and 4-6.
309:
Gap in the linoleum is about 18” x 19”.
321:
More straightening. Bruneau offered to let us keep some IT parlor car chairs in the 321. Door widths are 27” for the side doors, 26” for the vestibule doors (27” if the door itself is removed).
Misc.:
Frank showed me the signs he’s making for the breaker gaps in Barn 8. It’s up to me to get some reflective letters.
Saturday, June 5
308:
Installed repainted baggage racks in sectors 1-2 and 27-28. All screws installed, and I touched them up with black.
Took home the next two baggage racks, for 3-4 and 25-26.
Installed the repainted frame for the first aid box.
I painted the center ceiling panels with first yellow, sectors 9-10-19-20 and 7-8-21-22. Also yellow on the clerestory sash and 92” moldings, sector 9-10-19-20 only.
309:
I cut out a shim for the metal bracket and installed it.
I replaced one of the lag screws holding the patch piece in place with a better one, and tightened up the nut on the through bolt. Then the gaps were filled with Bondo and sanded down. Need brown primer.
321:
More straightening, stuff moved into 4001.
Misc.:
I went to the container and found the three tracings for the folding signs – Frank will need them.
Took home the metal signs for the breaker gaps. Also took home some Material Donation forms.
Tested the buzzers a little – there were some complaints from last weekend that they didn’t always work. The buzzers are sensitive to voltage drop. On straight 600V both cars worked fine; on the stinger with maybe 500V, the 308’s worked anemically, the 309’s didn’t work at all. It’s probable that if we’re out on the line and motoring, the buzzers won’t be completely reliable. I don’t see what can be done about it, it’s really a sort of design flaw.
From Frank:
Sunday:
321:
1. Painted #1-L dash, remainder of sub-belt-rail siding on R side, and around window sections 17-18 maroon.
2. Bruneau showed me a pair of two-person couches now in his library reefer that he would be interested in transferring to the 321 to act as parlor car seating; we will have to see whether they will fit through the 321's door when we have the car over on the pit lead.
Monday:
308:
1. Put second coat of white paint on new set of folding signs.
Tuesday, June 8
308:
I finished painting the clerestory windows and 92” molding in sectors 7-8 and 21-22.
Removed the plastic, carpet, etc.
Misc.:
I dropped off the break signs I had painted, and the Sunset Lines stencil, with Frank. Looked at LSE pictures.
Tuesday:
308:
1. Lettered reproduction "LIMITED" and "EXPRESS" signs. The "LOCAL" sign needs another coat of gloss white.
2. The L-shaped steel stepwell strap was painted black.
321:
1. Bruneau got us a non-working Knutsen 5B retriever from one of his containers and it was brought into the shop, primed and painted black.
Wednesday:
308:
1. The L-shaped steel stepwell strap was dropped off at the car.
321:
1. After retrieving the Conway Cream paint from the 321, I found that it was extremely goopy and wasn't brush-able at all. Pete Galayda, who was a chemist for Sherwin Williams, suggested adding some Xylene. This was done and the paint was strained into the second of our empty gallon cans.
2. The newly-usable Conway Cream paint was used to paint the entire letterboard on the L side and the #1L corner post.
3. The new retriever was installed at the #2 end.
Saturday, June 12 (with Frank)
308:
Did a little cleaning, helped Jim Nauer put the two-car train into service.
He later reported that the C21 controller wasn’t working, but it seemed to work for me. Probably the throttle button wasn’t being depressed all the way. Rode one trip to monitor the situation. Car was operated for four or five trips, I think.
I checked all main bearings on both cars.
309:
Operated in revenue service. No problems.
321:
I installed the horizontal molding strip on the exterior at sector 17-18, and painted it with primer. Need to remove some bent nails in this sector from when work stopped about five years ago.
I fixed the mounting of the control receptacle at the #1R corner. They are attached with lag screws into the wood, but this one had pulled out. I got a temporary piece of wood for the top of the floor, and attached the receptacle with carriage bolts.
I re-installed a governor, using the one removed from the 309 a year ago. It leaks terribly, but otherwise works OK; the on/off settings are well apart, about 80 and 110. (Checked the compressor oil, since it hadn’t been operated for a year.)
Sequenced the control, and checked the reverser operation, using the stinger. Contactor tips on contactor 13 are bad; upper tip has formed a big stalactite.
Frank and I used the 14 to pull the 321 out of the barn onto track 82; after service had ended, we then wyed the car, and finally put it over the pit. I got to be the dispatcher for a while, which was not easy while running the locomotive.
Misc.:
I brought out the rebuilt (shortened) control jumper which I finally finished. I meggered it and all was fine. I then tested it on the blue train at the station, and took the “old” control jumper back. The new one looks better.
After the 321 was pulled out, I did some cleaning in the barn.
Sunday, June 13 (with Frank)
308:
Operated by Jeff Obarek in revenue service. Four or five trips, I think. No problems reported.
309:
Operated in revenue service. No problems.
321:
Inspection: I did the pole piece clearance on all four motors; they’re all very good, evidently much more clearance than on any of the 66’s. I’d forgotten that there’s only one bottom plate per motor. Helped by Bruce running the Joy engine.
Brake adjustment – reduced the standing brake travel from 4¾” to 3¾”.
Checked the reverser – operation is OK, a couple of the tips could be replaced. The string banding on both operating coils is terrible, needs to be fixed when we get a chance. One side of the cover had the insulating mat coming loose, so it was taken into the shop and reglued.
We looked at the field tap control some more – it appeared that the air filter must be plugged, so I removed it and plugged the supply pipe. Taken into the shop for cleaning.
The cover plate for the headlight resistor box is missing. It was replaced temporarily with a different one, which doesn’t have holes in the right places.
Bruneau gave us some replacement contactor tips. The bottom one was replaced, but we couldn’t remove one screw holding the upper one in. We worked on filing down the protrusion.
We also looked at the way the pilot for the #1 end is attached – not the same as at the #2 end. It’s much less professional-looking; the pilot itself hangs from bolts without spacers. Some bolts were tightened but probably nothing major can be done.
Lubrication – all axle caps and armature bearings.
We loaded two benches from Bruneau’s “library car” into the 321 – helped by Bruce and Kirk. Looks good!
Misc.:
--- FIRST OPERATION OF A THREE-CAR TRAIN! --- After revenue service was over, we had Jeff bring the two blue cars in on track 41, and we made up the three car train. Ran back and forth on 41 a couple of times, then ran it back to track 84. No problems noted, except that the poles were tracking wrong through several frogs, and with two poles per train, it’s a real hassle. But well worth it!
Looked at the IT cars briefly, which were pulled out of Barn 6 and tested for brakes.
Monday, 14 June 2004 (Frank)
321:
1. Bruce Lampson went and got the replacement letterboard corner piece from R&B in Woodstock. It was $24 which really seems like a rip-off; however, the curvature of it was not a regular arc and had to conform to a pattern we provided so that must have given R&B some extra work.
2. The two letterboard corner pieces (#2 end) were primed.
3. The sections of the window sill that were in white primer were cleaned off and painted cream. This includes windows 1-6 and 11-2, plus the #1L end window. All other parts below the letterboard that were in white primer were painted cream; the only major sections still in white primer are the R side letterboard and #1 end metal plate.
4. The Masonite dash panel at the #1R corner was painted maroon, as was the siding over the belt rail around window sections 19-22.
5. I disassembled the field tap air strainer with Bruce's help, Bruneau provided new pulled curled horse hair, and we cleaned, reassembled and primed it.
Tuesday, June 15 (with Frank)
321:
I did more cleaning and straightening; got a lot accomplished for a change. I cleaned out both vestibules, and put a piece of plywood over the missing trap at the #1R corner.
Frank had finished lettering one new set of folding signs, so it was brought out and stored in the 321. This set will eventually go to the 308, but for now it will be mounted on the #2 end of the 321, so the backs have not been painted blue.
Took home the template and wood for cutting out the next two arched pieces for sector 15-16.
Frank cleaned off the 320 end window and primed the exterior.
Wednesday, 16 June 2004: (Frank)
308:
1. Jack is back from Scotland, and he painted the remaining three ceiling panels at the east (#2) end of the 308 ivory. He also did the top of the #2 bulkhead; I put the tracing of the "308" number decal I had made in Bruneau's car file for when we get new decals (?) made.
2. We removed windows 14 and 15 (sectors 27 and 28), brought them into the shop and Jack sanded and primed the exteriors. These had been hastily painted grey at some point, probably prior to the 7-4-02 debut. The window holes have been left open, so these windows should be completed next week if at all possible.
321:
1. I put a second coat of black on the air strainer for the field tap; this, and the pipes it's connected to, are now ready to reinstall.
2. I painted the letterboard on the R side cream.
3. I painted the following sections maroon: the Masonite patch at sector 14; the #1R corner post bottom; siding between the belt rail and the letterboard on the R side of the car from the center of the car to the #1 end (i.e. sectors 22-28).
Saturday, June 19 (with Frank)
308:
I installed a pipe clamp to hold the conduit to the post in the #2 vestibule.
Frank painted some windows in the shop with Fleet Grey.
Controller: I found that once in a while the C21 throttle mechanism gets gummed up and won’t release properly. It took a little while to get it to release. Jim Nauer was entirely correct (see note on June 12); it wasn’t just operator error. Not sure what we can do about it, though.
Checked the compressor, operation for one test trip with the 321.
309:
I installed the remaining piece of siding at the #2L corner, and painted it with primer. Need to make one more piece of molding to cover this end.
Checked the compressor, operation for one test trip with the 321.
321:
I installed the newly painted set of folding signs on the #2 end of the car. I cut the 3/8” rod we were given to the correct length, exactly 12”. I also fabricated a small, temporary latch at the top to hold them in place. It’s not designed to be moved – we want “Limited” to show so none of the backs are visible.
I took all of the remaining wall panels and extra arched windows to the container, thus freeing up more space inside the car.
I removed ordinary bulbs from two of the 600V lighting circuits and replaced them with 36W bulbs. Need more.
I installed the piece of clear glass in the oval window with RTV cement; so far held in by nails. Need quarter-round molding strips.
We lubricated all main journals.
Outside, I found a CA&E Van Dorn link in the dirt near one of the poles, along with several third rail chairs. I cleaned the dirt off the link and put it on the west end of the 321. I also rescued a ventilator from the roof, where it might have fallen off.
The three-car train was operated for one trip out to Kishwaukee Grove and back. No real problems; as expected, voltage drop at the east end is bad, but the contactors pick up and the train eventually starts to move. Frank checked the draft gear periodically; all cars are motoring properly, braking is about as uniform as we could expect with the 308’s triple valve, and it doesn’t seem like the 321 is any faster in full series than the other two. Jerry Saunders and some new guys came along for the ride, and Jerry helped us put the train away.
Misc.:
I hung the two breaker signs from the rafters, using fiberglass tape.
Tuesday, June 22 (with Frank)
321:
I used a piece of wood from the 308 to make a temporary window sill replacement for the #1R window. The previous 320 end window here was removed, and replaced with the one that Frank just repainted. The “window sill” needs to be sanded down and painted.
I did more cleaning and straightening; mostly in the smoker. I removed the old #1R end window, which was falling apart, from the car and placed it against the barn wall near the 4001.
Misc.:
Sidewalks in the barn were recoated today (along with lots of other pavement around the property).
Saturday, June 26 (with Frank)
308:
Operated in revenue service.
309:
Operated in revenue service.
321:
I cut out an oval piece of Masonite and covered up the missing toilet window frame. Spray-painted black.
I also cut out a blank to cover up the five missing siding pieces above the toilet window.
We got the cover for the bus jumper at the #1 end set correctly, and I put a cotter pin in the shaft. I also installed the repainted cover at the #2 end. Can’t find the right sort of pin, used a bolt instead. For some reason the cover is mounted at an angle. (I reattached the bolts that hold the whole casting in place).
I installed the little step at the #2 end. Needs to be painted maroon.
Frank painted the metal plate at the #1 end cream; also the temporary window sill #1R.
I installed screws to hold the molding strip in place under the temporary window sill at the #1R corner.
I reattached the two tack molding pieces at the #2 end, and painted them flat black. Some slight improvement in appearance.
In order to cover up the missing bottom of the corner post, and the bad door, I attached our 321 Masonite display sign with two screws over the bottom of the #1R side door. Opinions varied on whether this was an improvement.
I finally got the buzzer system to work on this car! There’s a buzzer only at the #2 end, so far. Later, when the other two cars returned, Frank tested it in the train.
I installed the two arched trim pieces in sector 15-16, plus the horizontal piece there, thus more or less finishing this side of the car. Painted with brown primer. The corner block for window 15 is still missing, so the vertical trim piece can’t be installed there yet. Sector 17-18 needs some bent nails replaced and screws driven in.
Misc.:
Civil War day. I moved some more junk from the scaffold into the 4001.
Wednesday, June 30th:
Jack painted the last two armrests, sectors 13 and 21, with white primer.
He painted maroon on the siding and trim over the belt rail in sector 15-16 of the 321.
Friday, July 2
308:
I painted the two remaining arm rests black – sectors 13 and 21. (Jack had painted them both with white primer, in place). Later in the day I then painted them both with lower green, thus completing this task, more or less. They at least need another coat of black.
321:
I started cutting out the belt rail/window sill piece for sector 25-26, but didn’t quite finish.
I removed all the bent nails, etc. and finished installing all outside molding pieces in sector 17-18. I then painted it maroon, thus finishing this side for the time being.
I also painted the (temporary) folding sign latch and step at the #2 end maroon.
I installed both of the curved metal plates for the letterboard corners at the #2 end, using Bruneau’s punch on the new one.
I replaced the old hardware-store bulbs in the middle center ceiling fixture with older street railway bulbs from the 308.
More cleaning up and straightening.
Saturday, July 3 (with Frank)
308+309:
Operated in revenue service, about three trips, I think. Dave Shore was the motorman, T. J. Miller the conductor. Train was put away about 2pm due to the approach of rain.
321:
I painted the metal plates at the #2 end.
Frank and I installed the third rail beam at the #1L corner.
Sunday, July 4 (with Frank)
308+309+321:
The three car train was operated in revenue service for the first time. I was the motorman, Frank the conductor, and Jim Windmeier the trainman. One trip on the main line, then the trolley pageant, then two more main line trips. No problems were noted with any mechanical equipment. (At least that we didn’t already know about, like the 321’s governor.)
Line training for Henry Vincent and Andy Sunderland. I approved both of them. They helped put the train away.
321:
We removed the union and plugged up the pipe to the field tap control, since it was still leaking (Frank had reconnected it last week). Put the cover back in place for operation.
The “parlor car” seating had plenty of use, mostly by visitors from other museums, such as Arden, Brookins, and Orange Empire.
Tuesday, July 6 (with Frank)
308:
I put a second coat of red on the #2 train door.
321:
I straightened up, reconnected the AC, etc.
I located a piece of wood for the letterboard in sectors 5-6; not planed yet.
I took home the other two sets of folding signs, so I can cut the notches into them.
Misc.:
Looked at Frank’s progress on the 266, etc.
Wednesday, July 7:
Jack painted the remaining baggage racks black.
He also did more sanding and repainting in the vestibules.
Friday, July 9
309:
I selected the two wedge locks and one bracket for the door post to take home, so Frank can clean and repaint them. We decided as a practical matter that the wedge locks on the #2 train door need to be replaced, since the upper one locks itself by gravity. I now believe these were replaced by IRM at some point, probably at North Chicago. Originally the car must have had all wedge locks the same type.
Misc.:
I picked up the saber saw and other tools I’ll need for working on the folding signs at home. I also noticed that both the 308 and 309 had not been locked up properly, and reset the flaps. Need to talk to Jack.
Tuesday, July 13
308:
Worked on trimming the window sill piece for the #2R vestibule. Needs a little more work.
309:
I cut out and planed a new piece of wood to replace the wide molding strip over the patched corner post – the last piece. Left in the shop for Jack to paint with primer.
I brought out the wedge locks to be cleaned and repainted.
321:
I jointed one edge, cut the letterboard piece to width, and planed it.
I brought out one set of folding signs, now with the notches cut out. Left in the shop for painting.
Misc.:
I put some of the cream paint (321) onto a paint stick for Ralph Taylor.
I set up and tested the new shop vacuum I bought. Looked at Frank’s progress on the 266.
Saturday, July 17
308:
I opened up the hole in the gasket for the #2 end clock, but it still didn’t work. Took the clock over to the shop to be tested, but the hydraulic tester didn’t have the right parts. Phooey. Left for Frank to worry about.
I removed the window wiper mechanism from the #2 end, since it didn’t work right. I installed the repainted piece on the right side of the motorman’s window, then installed and adjusted a “new” wiper mechanism (from the 321, I think) after swapping the wiper blade.
Worked on the woodwork for the #2 non-motorman’s window; I sanded down the top trim plate and nailed it back in place; I trimmed the window sill so the door will open and close; I then cut out a trim piece for the inside of the corner post and installed it. Painted the new wood with brown primer.
On each side of the non-motorman’s window, based on the #1 end, there are two strips about ¾” x 1¼” with a slot between them, as for a window shade, rather than a single plate. I started picking out wood for these. There is, however, no evidence that there was ever a window shade there.
309:
I did some work on wire-wheeling the replacement wedge locks – not finished.
321:
Broke the train between 321 and 309. The bus jumper is in the #1 vestibule of the 321; I left the control jumper attached to the 321, since it’s sort of wedged in place and I’m afraid the control receptacle could pull out of the floor at any time.
Tuesday, July 20
308:
I changed the air gauges between the #2 end of the 309 and the #2 end of the 308. It’s definitely the clock itself that was bad; the 309’s works fine now on the 308. The outer covers were left with the cars, since it’s wired in on the 309. Picked up my tools from Saturday and did a little cleaning.
309:
I started to trim the new piece of molding for the #2R corner to length, but it was too hot and too dark to finish today.
I decided the piece of linoleum I got from Ralph Taylor could not be used. Stored in the 321.
321:
Dropped off the second set of (notched) folding signs in the shop.
Misc.:
Looked at Frank’s progress on the 266.
Friday, July 23
308:
I checked, and sure enough, I hadn’t cut the brakes back in between cars (after testing on Tuesday). Fixed. Also, I dropped off a spare copy of the motorman instructions.
309:
I mopped the linoleum in the smoker and applied some floor wax. Will have to wait to see if it makes any difference.
Monday, July 26
308+309:
Checked on whether the cars were locked up properly; looked fine except for deadbolt on 308 #2R door. Close enough. I had to put all the signs back on the cars myself. I noticed that some of the seats in the 308 are getting worse.
Checked that the RH wood screws I bought were correct for the baggage racks; left for Jack.
Tuesday, July 27
308:
I cut out four pieces to be installed on either side of the #2R end window; planed and sanded in the shop.
Left Jack a new agenda.
321:
I rechecked the measurements for the new piece of letterboard, then used the table saw to rabbet the bottom edge.
Misc.:
Left two cans of spray primer for Jack to use on the folding signs. Also left contact information for ORM with Bruneau.
Saturday, July 31
308:
I made one more section of molding for the inside of the #2R vestibule, then installed it plus the four molding strips made earlier. Installed with nails and screws, then painted with brown primer.
I gave Jon Fenlaciki a short training course on the 308/309; we ran the two cars out as far as the road, then back into the barn.
309:
I finished removing paint from the wedge locks. I replaced the one at the top of the door; works OK. The whole door should be rehung. At the bottom, I removed the old wedge lock; didn’t have time to install the new one, which will take some chisel work.
The compressor may be on its last legs.
Misc.:
Talked to Dr. Blackburn; interesting, but nothing I didn’t know already about the 308 at Noblesville.
Tuesday, August 3
309:
I had Bruce come over and listen to the compressor. He said not to worry; he believes it will be good at least until the end of the operating season. Make sure the oil is full. When inspection comes around, we can drop the compressor and remove a shim from the piston arm.
308:
I installed all of the repainted baggage racks except #9, which has a loose strap and needs a new machine screw. Not all wood screws were installed.
I left my new work light in the #1 vestibule for Jack to use.
Saturday, August 7
308+309:
Cars did not run today; chance of rain, etc. I removed all of the tools and supplies from both cars, checked the oil in the compressors and filled them. At the #1 end of the 308, I reattached the whistle cord, which Jack left hanging loose due to painting the window sills.
321:
I reconnected the air pipe to the field tap control. The magnet valve leaks in the off position, but when the valve lifts the leak stops. I tested the system electrically, and it seems to work fine. The valve is energized on the last point; it also remains energized if you start backing off, as I would expect.
I tried testing the spare J governor. For some reason the valve is stuck so that any small air pressure causes the governor to turn off. Cannot be adjusted. Helped by Bob Heinlein.
I worked on the next section of belt rail, for sectors 25-26, and finally got it to fit. Painted with white primer and installed. I started cutting out the next piece, for sectors 27-28.
Misc.:
L cars were cleaned of graffiti at 50th Avenue.
Tuesday, August 10
308:
I finished inserting the correct screws to hold in the new grab iron which was installed inside the vestibule at the #2R corner.
309:
I installed the wedge lock on the #2 train door. Still need to do the bracket on the door frame.
Misc.:
Spoke to Bruneau about testing spare governors, magnet valves, the Richard Anderson accident, etc.
Wednesday, August 11 (with Frank and Jack)
308:
We looked at the vestibules, ceiling, etc. with Jack and discussed what he should do next.
309:
I installed the bracket on the door frame at the #2 end, and reset one of the hinges. The door now opens and closes better, without rubbing on the threshold. Helped by Frank.
Misc.:
Frank and I tested a spare governor; Frank then moved it to the 321 for storage.
Tuesday, August 17 (with Frank)
308:
Frank removed the drop sash from the #2L side door, since it didn’t drop down properly. I ran it over the belt sander a little and re-installed it. Now works fine.
We also looked at the places on the 308 where the tack molding is separated from the letterboard, and the canvas is separating from the tack molding. I should start working on this when I get a chance, but car can still be operated without making anything worse.
Misc.:
We walked out to the south 40 and looked at the huge grading project, with all the drain tiles, etc.
Friday, August 20
Misc.:
Mostly, I worked for Thomas. Operated the switch to the steam leads; also ran the 144 and 415 for a few trips each. Good crowd, weather was OK, etc.
321:
I removed the magnet valve and took it to the shop. I disassembled the air portion, but didn’t see anything obviously wrong. (Although I’m still not completely sure how the thing works.) I then looked at the cardboard gasket on the mounting bracket and noticed it was torn. Removed and taken to the shop for eventual replacement.
Saturday, August 28
321:
I worked some more on fitting the belt rail piece for sectors 27-28.
308:
Checked and topped off the compressors on both 308 and 309.
Fortunately I noticed that the east pole on the 308 was up in the roof; pulled down and hooked without problem. Don’t know why this happened.
I pulled the two cars east about 20’ to work on the tack molding. It’s worse than I thought; the upper half of it, behind the canvas, is very badly rotted. This must be original CA&E wood, I think. I can only hope the letterboard behind it is still OK. I installed five or six screws to hold the tack molding on better (sector 2 only), then put Bondo over them and painted the Bondo with gloss black. At several places I replaced the tacks with 1½” thin nails; these hold the canvas much better. The only real solution will be to replace the tack molding; I believe this could be done without damaging the canvas.
Misc.:
I sold drinks and snacks for Thomas. Got rather cold and wet.
Tuesday, August 31
308:
I dropped off a new gallon of blue paint for Jack to use. Talked to Bruneau about putting the 308 in the roof bay in Barn 4 over the winter.
Somebody, presumably a visitor, put the pole on the wire. I tied it down. This is getting annoying.
321:
I made a new cardboard gasket for the magnet valve. Put back on our shelf in the shop.
Saturday, September 4
308:
I cut out two pieces of wood for attaching the dome light at the #2 end more securely and installed them. Actually mounting the dome will be a two-man job, however.
I moved the newest set of folding signs from the 321 to the 308 and installed it on the #1 end. Also made a new “temporary” latch for it. Painted a first coat of blue on the back of the last sign plus the latch.
Tack molding is ¾” x 3”.
309:
Reinstalled the folding step with new wood and larger screws.
321:
I installed the magnet valve with the new cardboard gasket and tested it by hand. Doesn’t leak any more. Not electrically tested.
I put a first coat of white on one of the notched folding signs; taken home for second coat and lettering.
Installed a C6 controller handle at the #1 end, so it looks more complete from outside.
Misc.:
John Smatlak and Doug Somebody from OE/IMOTAC were visiting; showed them the three cars.
Saturday, September 11
308+309:
Because WTTW-TV had a camera crew at IRM today, Bob Heinlein and Dan Buck were pulled off the train to do other things. So I was drafted to operate the two cars along with Rich Block. Worked out fine, though I didn’t get much done on the 321. A total of five main-line trips in revenue operation.
Then the first Take-the-Throttle trip on these cars, with David Dillingham from Kansas City. Went well; one car line trip and one main line.
308:
The brake pipe hose at the #1 end broke open (just as Take the Throttle was supposed to start). Swapped it with the one on the #1 end of the 309.
321:
I installed the repainted folding sign with the notch at the #2 end.
Reinstalled the wires to connect to the field tap magnet valve. Not tested.
I installed the first wedge piece on the belt rail at sector 25. Not yet painted, due to operation (v. supra).
Sunday, September 12
308+309:
Operated in revenue service by Jeff Obarek, with Joe Stupar as conductor and Josh as trainman. No problems.
Then a second Take-the-Throttle trip on these cars, with William Aylesworth from Evanston. Went well; one car line trip and one main line. Photo meet with the 431 at Johnson.
309:
I found a replacement brake pipe glad hand in the pile and installed it at the #1 end. I also got a new rubber hose (well, not really new, it’s from the CA&E) to fix the old one; needs work. Also found a ¾” hose for the control pipe glad hand, since this also needs to be replaced on the #1 end.
321:
I got several governors out of the brake car and tested them in the shop. I found two good ones and took them to the 321; one was installed, the other is a spare. I took the bad ones back to the shop and put them back in the brake car.
With the help of some passing visitors, I verified that the magnet valve works correctly.
I got a working windshield wiper from the container and installed it at the #1 end; painted black. Looks better.
Tuesday, September 14
321:
I coupled up the 309 to the 321 and made up the train.
Cleaning and straightening in the 321, in preparation for service.
Misc.:
Took some parts and tools back to the shop; picked up the parts for the brake pipe hose.
Saturday, September 18 (with Frank)
308+309+321:
Operated in revenue service for Member’s Day. Three trips on the main line. Ron Seevers and Dave Mewhinney were trainmen. No problems. Plenty of other activity: 1630, Zephyr (plus other cars and BN-1), 6000s, 4000s, etc.
Charlie Strong gave us a nice print of a picture he took last Saturday of the 308-309.
308+309:
We then put the 321 back in the barn, ran the 308 outside, and recoupled the 309 to it so the other ends were attached; this allowed us to make one more run at night with the headlight operable at either end.
Sunday, September 19
309:
I disconnected the 309 from the 308, and ran a Take the Throttle trip with Ken Carlson and his cousin Dennis Edwards. One trip around the carline, one main-line trip. The 1630 and the Zephyr were also running TtT trips. Frank Sirinek and Mike Stauber were along for the ride.
Tuesday, September 21
308:
Coupled up to the 321, to facilitate working on the interior.
I stacked up the cushions in sectors 5-10, so I could get at the lower ceiling. I removed the 87” molding in sectors 5-10 and started scraping. While the paint is badly flaked, a lot of it still won’t come off easily. Either a wood rasp or power sander will probably be needed. While the wood molding came off easily enough once the new screws were removed, the metal strip for the car cards remains firmly attached, so I didn’t remove the cards. They are all repros in this section and won’t be damaged by work on the upper part, between the 87” and 89” moldings.
Started removing the outer layer of veneer on the wall panel 12-13; will need heat to remove most of it.
Misc.:
I put all of the signs back in place on all three cars.
Sunday, September 26
309:
I stopped in to check on the Take-the-Throttle trip with Richard Herwitt. Jeff had used the 431 instead. I dropped off some new supplies I had bought, and closed up Barn 8.
Tuesday, September 28
308:
I finished scraping and sanding the ceiling in sector 9-10. I also started removing the wood in sector 8, since it’s too badly deteriorated to save. There are several other places on each side where this will be necessary.
Note: I found an interesting iron angle bracket inside the ceiling at sector 8, designed to stiffen the roof structure. There’s nothing like this in the 309, so I would think it’s a part of the railroad rebuilding c. 1920.
Tuesday, October 5
308:
Bruneau gave me a collection of 8 or 9 metal plates (ridged) for mounting third-rail beams on the trucks, as well as one train door heater bracket, which had been in the 213. I carried them to Barn 8; the metal brackets are stored under the 4001 for now. Also looked through the 213 a little and saw the progress being made.
I checked on the condition of the letterboard top parts behind the rotted-out tack molding, and from what I could tell they seem OK.
309:
I removed the control pipe hose and glad hand from the #1 end and took it home for rebuilding.
Saturday, October 9
308/309:
I switched the cars all by myself (using a brake handle for the 431 borrowed from Bob Heinlein): I pulled the 431 out and parked it on 82; I pulled the308 out and parked it on 82 also. Then I ran the 309 out of Barn 4 to the tail track and into 84. Then I ran the 308 to the tail track, and around the car line to Depot St. and into track 41. Then I put the 431 back onto 84 at the door. Whew! No problems.
308:
I started removing the tack molding on the north side of the car. (I moved the portable platform over from Barn 8.) Most of sectors 1-4 were removed, since they were most badly rotted. The five feet or so closest to the corner were not done. I also started removing tacks from the loose canvas.
Looked at what Jack has been doing on the main compartment ceiling.
Misc.:
I spent a few minutes helping Bob Kutella mount the circular metal sign on the CGW caboose.
John Meyer and others were working on the signal displays by Barn 4.
Tuesday, October 12
308:
Bruneau looked at the canvas with me; he thinks it can probably be retacked as is. Also he gave me a catalog for seat upholstery.
We also looked at the doors which Buzz has made. One frame is glued up; the other is ready for gluing, apparently. No windows or hardware yet, of course.
Saturday, October 16
308:
I started work on installing the light fixtures for the final circuit. One done; I need some heat shrink tubing, etc.
I worked on hanging the new door Buzz made at the #1 end. I removed the old door and measured it carefully, then cut the new door to the correct size (helped briefly by Bob Kutella). I then carried it to the car and checked the fit. About a foot near the top will need to be planed by hand, but otherwise it fits well. I also marked the hinge locations. I then took the door back to the shop and made mortises for the hinges. I also mortised out for the latch. Finally, I reinstalled the old door.
Jack removed the bad ceiling panel at the #2L corner of the vestibule. Needs a new panel approx. 29” x 36”.
I checked the status of the ceiling, and decided to try gluing a new piece of veneer in the 27-28 sector. Attached with contact cement; for installation, I was helped briefly by Bob Kutella, again.
Misc.:
Dave Diamond and his crew were removing the old ramps in Barn 3; new ones will be ADA-compliant. Told Bob about it so he could salvage some of the plywood for the shelves he’s building.
I went to the container, started removing some hardware from a 310 door for use on the new 308 doors.
Tuesday, October 19
308:
I brought out a new piece of oak plywood for the vestibule ceiling and cut it to shape. A second piece needs to be made, since a single piece could not be installed. Extra wood taken home for gluing.
I removed the two baggage racks in sectors 11-14 and started removing the veneer in this sector. I decided to do the entire panel, not try to piece it together.
Saturday, October 23
308:
I went to Owl in the morning and got two more rolls of oak veneer, plus enough poplar 4/4 stock to make 55’ of tack molding. I jointed and ripped the stock for the tack molding, then made the initial 45 degree cut at the top. Will need a ½” rounding over molding bit. Helped by Tim Peters.
I removed all of the old tack molding in sectors 1-7, including the #2 corner. Canvas is generally in good condition. Still need to remove tacks.
I also got a couple of red tags and tagged the car so it isn’t pulled outside without permission. It was very windy today.
I finished removing all of the top layer of veneer in sector 12-13 (above the pier only).
First coat of white primer on the wall panels, window posts, trim, and 80” molding in sectors 11-14.
Cut out a piece of veneer for the ceiling sector 25-26; not glued or installed yet.
Misc.:
Bob Kutella got the 68 to operate for the first time today.
Need more white primer, brown primer, and black spray paint. Perhaps also get some varnish to do the smoker bulkhead walls, before painting them.
Tuesday, October 26
308:
I brought out quarts of brown primer and white primer for Jack.
I looked at the router table; need to bring my own router and bits.
I removed all of the veneer from the double window post 12-13, and sanded down both above and below the pier. I also removed the baggage racks 1 and 2 (sectors 15-18).
Worked on removing tacks from the canvas, sectors 5-6.
Saturday, October 30
308:
After determining that my router wouldn’t work in the router table, I set up the tack moldings on the bench and shaped the bottom edges. I then used the table saw to rabbet them (with a temporary fence, since the real fence is now broken.)
I glued the new piece of veneer into place in sector 25-26, helped briefly by Bob Kutella again. This one went even better, looks good. As usual, more contact cement was applied to my hands and the drop cloth than the ceiling.
Jack had removed the windows 5 and 6 for painting (first green). Since he’s now on vacation until the middle of November, I put them back in the car.
I reinstalled the 87” moulding for sector 24-28 (since the hips in sectors 21-24 have CA&E Masonite, which is still in good condition.) Reinstalled the CA&E screws, and drilled a couple of new holes into the carlines for the moulding. Need to Bondo over the new screws.
First white primer on the new veneer 25-26, second coat on 27-28.
I removed all of the veneer below the pier on the double post 16-17; started on the section above.
Talked to Buzz a little more about the doors. He’s willing to work on the windows. We’d like to bring the 310 doors over to the shop, but the Car Dept. pickup truck is BO.
Misc.:
Picked out a bolt which would work to attach the 4001’s tow bar to the 321.
It took the Car Dept. about three hours to figure out how to move the 749. Frank Sirinek showed me the new shower curtains for the 141.
Tuesday, November 2
308:
I painted the outside and bottom of all six lengths of tack moulding.
I removed the seat back at sector 16 and took it home, for use in finding an upholsterer. I decided we need ten backs redone. For cushions: 44” x 30”.
Double window posts need veneer 8¾” x 28½” or 28 5/8”.
Saturday, November 6 (with Frank)
308:
I cut out and installed pieces of veneer for the wall panels below the piers in sectors 12-13 and 16-17. I also cut out a small piece of the second layer of veneer directly above the light bulb at 12-13 and glued in a new piece of veneer there.
I cut out a piece of Masonite to fill the gap in the inner layer of the ceiling at 8-9 and nailed it into place. I then cut out and glued a new piece of outer veneer for the ceiling in sector 9.
Second white primer on the ceiling sector 25-26. First white primer on the new veneer on the double wall posts 12-13 and 16-17.
A new member from Japan, Sunao Fujita, painted the other side of all the tack moulding strips with brown primer. Thanks.
309:
Coupled up the 309 to the 431. Tested the air, worked OK. Turns out the control systems cannot be MU’d.
Misc.:
Spoke to Henry Vincent about training documents. Met Jeff Hakner and Joe Nuara, from Branford.
Sunday, 7 November 2004 (Frank):
309:
1. In the morning, 309 was moved to track 41 east using 431 for power, with Andy Sunderland as the motorman. The air compressor was then dropped using the forklift (Andy as forklift operator). Jeff Hakner and Joe Nuara, IRM members active at Branford, removed the inspection hatch and determined that the crankshaft rod bearings are not all that bad and are not the source of the knocking (Jeff thinks it's the wristpins); however, one shim was removed for good measure. It was also found that a lot of gunk had accumulated in the oil and the lubricator spout for the crankshaft support bearing was completely blocked. All oil was drained out, the gunk was removed from the inside, and new oil was put in before the pump was reassembled. This should eliminate the smoking from the breather pipe. Nick Kallas ran the forklift putting the pump back under the car, it was reattached and the car ran back to Barn 8 alone. The union next to the pump will have to be looked at; there is a small leak.
Misc:
1. Bruneau bought a C6 controller today that supposedly came from CA&E 30; it is in excellent condition and will be put in storage.
Saturday, November 13
308:
I cut out pieces for the upper ceiling sectors 19-20, and part of 18½; also a first piece for the new part of sector 8. Sectors 8 and 18½ were installed with contact cement. 19-20 was not installed because more work on the remaining inner layer is needed.
Bondo on the joints in the upper ceiling panels at sectors 26-27; 18½; 9-10.
New veneer applied to the upper wall panel (above the pier) in sector 12-13. (Still needs to be trimmed.) First white primer on this piece, second on the piece below the pier.
Carried the repainted tack molding pieces back to the car; selected three for installation this year.
Misc.:
Got to ride and operate the 68 for the first time. Rode the fan trip with all sorts of people.
Death of Howard Weege (last Monday) was announced.
Tuesday, November 16
308:
I trimmed and sanded the edges of the new veneer panel on the upper wall, sector 12-13.
I also removed some more veneer from sector 16-17.
Left a note for Jack. Bruneau gave me part of wall light fixture which he found somewhere.
Wednesday, November 17: Jack put a second coat of white primer on the upper wall panel 12-13, as requested. He also put a first coat of white primer on the wainscotting on both side walls of the smoker. He also took the (still varnished) windows at sectors 12, 18½, and 19 to the shop for repainting.
Saturday, November 20 (with Frank)
308:
I trimmed the edges around the upper edge of the wall panel, sector 20-21. I then decided the inner layer was hopeless, so I removed it in this section. Then I cut out a second piece of new veneer. During the course of the day, both of these new strips were glued in place. Finally, Bondo around the edges.
I trimmed the left edge of the double window post 12-13.
Cut out a piece of Masonite to replace the inner layers of the ceiling in sector 20, attached with screws. Then the veneer was installed, helped by Frank. Looks good.
More removal of veneer from the upper wall panel 16-17. I removed a section of the inner layer and replaced it with new veneer.
Started cutting out bad veneer at the top of the wall, sector 19. Pieced in some new inner layer right at the top of the arch between sectors 19 and 20.
Frank brought Johnson’s C21 controller to the shop and started preparing it for service. Basically in very good shape; the collar piece is worn, which means that the throttle doesn’t close completely on the first point. Frank disassembled the arc chute assembly for cleaning and Glyptol.
Misc.:
Left a note for Jack. Frank took progress photos of various projects.
Sunday, November 21 (Frank):
308:
1. The fingerboard segments, which had been removed, were cleaned and individually Glyptalled.
2. The fingerboard base was found to consist of a piece of that hard red rubber stuff with a transite sheet glued to one side; the transite was in very poor condition and was scraped off. Following this, on Dan Gornstein's advice two pieces of 1/32 fish paper were cut and punched to replace the transite sheet and the fish paper and rubber base were Glyptalled and clamped together (Sunao helped with the Glyptalling). This will provide a smooth surface to which the segments can be reattached.
3. The key was removed from the controller column with little difficulty.
4. The cam collar was removed from the controller column and was found to be very badly worn. I examined the cam collar from Jack Franklin's controller, now stored in the container; it is not too bad but not great either. Bruneau and I are both of the opinion that it would be more desirable to build up one of our two bad cam collars (the other one was removed from Norm's controller last year) with braze and file it down, so he will look into having Lenny Halter do that.
5. The blowout coil and cast iron frame from the C21 arc chute assembly were both cleaned and Glyptalled.
Misc:
1. I got an opportunity to run the 68 for about 1000 feet. Joy.
Monday, November 22 (Frank):
308:
1. Sunao Fujita, the new Japanese volunteer, scraped all the paint and crud off the new (Johnson) C21 controller top and did some light polishing.
2. I reassembled the fingerboard; the fish paper replacement seems to have worked well. Final Glyptalling was done on the fingerboard and it was then reattached to the blowout coil and hinged frame, and the whole assembly was reinstalled on the C21.
3. I needle-chipped and wire-wheeled the outside of the C21 controller cover; it is ready to wipe down with mineral spirits and prime (we should use 2-3 coats of primer to fill in the rust pits). I also Glyptalled the insulating blanket on the inside of the cover, which is in good shape.
4. I cleaned the controller segments on the new C21.
5. I decided that window #6 [sector 19] was done, so I cleaned the glass and put it in the 308 (not installed). The interior of window #5 [sector 18½] is done but the exterior looked pretty shabby, so after cleaning the glass I touch-sanded it and put on another coat of Fleet Grey. It is now ready to install. Window #28 [sector 12] needs another coat of Upper Wall Green on the interior.
321:
1. One of the dash signs was given a first coat of white.
2. Four of the other dash signs were given a coat of primer on the second side; these are now ready to be painted white except for one of the signs, which had a big dollop of red paint dripped on it while it was sitting in the paint room. This will have to be sanded out and probably spot-primed.
Misc:
1. I discussed with Bruneau the possibility of swapping the 308 and IT 101 at some point during the winter for the purpose of finishing the 101; he seemed amenable to the idea but is unlikely to act, meaning that if we really decide we want to make that swap we'll have to do it ourselves.
Tuesday, November 23 (what Jack appears to have done):
308:
Put a coat of brown primer on the C21 controller cover.
More white primer on the smoker walls.
More filling and green paint on walls at sector 20, 26-27, and maybe elsewhere.
Installed windows at sectors 18½, and 19. Windows at sectors 17 and 18 taken to shop.
Tuesday, November 23
308:
I started reinstalling the 87” molding strip for sectors 19-24. Need some new screws: #6 1½” FH.
Started removing the wiring from the C6 controller at the #1 end, since a C21 will definitely be available as a replacement.
Note on car cards: All but one of the originals are 28” wide; the other is 42”. Johnson repros are all 22” wide.
Wednesday, December 1 (what Jack appears to have done):
308:
Worked on windows and shade tracks in the shop. They may be ready to re-install, but I didn’t do anything about it.
More white primer on the smoker walls. (?)
Saturday, December 4
308:
I finished removing the outer layer of veneer from the upper part of sector 16-17. I also cut out a strip 3” wide at the corner of sector 18, next to the smoker bulkhead. Both layers will need to be replaced here, but it’s a small piece.
I removed the rest of the connections to the controller at the #1 end, unbolted the case, and removed it (helped briefly by Vic Humphreys). Controller was taken to the shop, so Bruneau can store it in his container car.
Note: I hadn’t realized this before, but all the lighting circuits (save one) and the buzzer ground through the controller case at the #1 end; the ground wire comes down a conduit and is attached to the left side of the case; the ground connection then proceeds through a bolt to the metal plate under the platform. It took me a little while to figure out why the lights were no longer working. I have a temporary connection rigged up in the #1 vestibule.
I ran three lengths of tack molding through the table saw again to shorten them slightly, then smoothed them off with my hand plane. The first piece was installed (roughly sectors 5-7) with nails and screws, and painted with primer on the planed parts. Need a lot of new carpet tacks. I will also need help to move my “portable” platform farther west.
Talked to Dick Lukin about buying Naugahyde.
Misc.:
Left a note for Bruneau.
Tuesday, December 7
308:
I installed the last two screws in the first piece of tack molding, and started on the second (roughly sectors 2-5). Screws for about 2/3 of its length. Also smoothed it down with the hand plane. Bob Sunderlin helped me with moving the platform.
OK, wise guys: who tightened up the buzzer cord?!?
I found a piece from the #1 end controller (a bracket for holding the wires) and put it back in the controller, which is still in the shop.
Left a note for Jack.
Saturday, December 11
308:
Windows for sectors 15 and 16 had been finished by Jack, put into place. I also put a couple of pieces of cardboard over the ventilators, and got a space heater from the 321 so I can heat up the smoker.
Buzz Morrisette and I went to the container and brought one of the 310 doors to the shop for him to disassemble for making new window frames for the 308 side doors. I also dumped out the water.
I cut out and applied the outer layer of veneer for the upper part of sector 17 (being done in two parts to get around the light fixture.)
I also applied two layers of veneer in the corner between sector 18 and the smoker bulkhead.
Brown primer on the door frames at each end of the smoker, since they will be black.
First white primer on sectors 17 and 18, plus most of the upper half of the smoker bulkhead on that side.
Misc.:
I spent a couple of hours helping the track department clear stuff in the material yard from the path of the connector track.
Tuesday, December 14
308:
Painting in the smoker. I finished first white primer on the left side of the smoker bulkhead (adjacent to 18). I also trimmed the veneer installed on Saturday in sectors 17 and 18, and painted those sections.
Wednesday, December 15 (with Frank)
308:
I finished installing screws for the second piece of replacement tack molding, then cut the third piece to length and installed it (corner 2R to sector 2). Planed surfaces were painted with brown primer.
I planed a piece of oak to 5/8” and cut it to shape for the C21 controller base. I removed the metal plate (roughly 2” square) from the floor of the #1 vestibule; it covered the head of a bolt through the floor which holds up part of the coupler hanger.
I also located the original holes in the floor through which the C21 controller mounting bolts were mounted, and drilled them out.
I started tacking down the canvas, got about half way done. Corner to sector 3. There are some rips and gaps which will need to be filled with caulk once the weather warms up.
Frank and I went to the container and picked up the other C21 controller cover for Frank’s temporary use in needle-chipping the base. Also brought back some ventilators we’ll need to complete the 308.
Frank worked on the contactors.
Frank needle-chipped the base of the new C21 controller.
I put a first coat of white primer on the upper wall, sector 15.
I brought out a new roll (2’ x 8’) of veneer and put it in the 321 to flatten out.
Misc.:
Frank, Bob Bruneau, and I went to the Christmas party at the Strahorn library. We then went to Ace and got some tacks for the roof and a quart of white primer (Rustoleum).
Several of the machine tools in the new shop are now locked: the planer, jointer, and big bandsaw. I got a key from Bob Kutella.
Saturday, December 18
308:
I finished tacking down the canvas.
I cut out a piece of veneer for the upper wall, sector 16, and attached it. Seam between the two sectors looks good, if I say so myself.
First primer on the new veneer, sector 16, and on the end bulkhead next to sector 15. Second primer on sector 17.
I worked on removing the bolts from the base of the new C21 controller, without success.
I looked at the fabric samples I got from Dick Lukin with Bob Kutella and Vic, and we agreed that “Sparta” is a better match than “Wallaby”. I’ll contact Dick again.
Misc.:
Dave Diamond and his crew were mounting a UP sign on the front of Barn 3.
Monday 20 December 2004 (Frank)
308:
1. I removed one floor bolt from the C21 frame using the pinion puller; Carl Illwitzer used a torch to blow out the other bolt.
2. I wiped down and primed the edges and the top of the back of the C21 frame.
3. Dick Lukin called about ordering seat material.
321:
1. I put a first coat of gloss white on three of the folding sign leaves, and a second coat of white on a fourth leaf. This last one is ready to paint maroon on the back and then letter. All leaves were returned to storage in the paint room.
Misc:
1. I wire-brushed and primed the rim for the 205's new headlight.
2. I paid my 2005 dues.
3. I saw a proof copy of the Fall 2004 issue of "Rail & Wire." It has your "1960's Right-Of-Way Ideas" article, except I am credited as the author! Another article also includes my photo of the three-car wood train, but the caption claims the photo was taken either at Johnson Siding or at the East Switch depending on whether you believe the first or second sentence in the caption. I sent the Heiers an e-mail notifying them of these inaccuracies.
Wednesday, December 22
308:
I dropped off two cans of paint which I bought at Diamond yesterday, and discussed with Jack what he’s doing. He’ll take the “new” ventilators to repaint, since he wanted something to do at home.
Jack:
Painted the controller cover and base (blue)
Painted sectors 11-14 first upper green.
More white primer in sectors 15-18.
Misc.:
Also I dropped off a couple of books which I donated to the Strahorn.
Tuesday 28 December 2004 (Frank)
308:
1. C21 controller frame given second coat of blue; controller cover sanded down and given second coat of blue (Jack put first coat on both frame and
cover last Wednesday). Except for that cam collar that needs to be brazed up, the controller should now be done and ready to install.
2. Paul Kattner did some more needle-chipping on the air tank on the toilet side; he also wire-wheeled that air tank in preparation for priming.
3. I did some needle-chipping on the #2 end pilot and MU jumper receptacles, wire-wheeled the pilot, the receptacles and the brake cylinder in preparation for priming.
Tuesday, December 28
308:
Looked at what Frank had been doing, and met Paul Kattner.
I trimmed the veneer at sector 16.
I reinstalled the light fixture at 16-17.
Picked up much of the junk on the floor in the smoker. Bruneau came and looked at the latches I need for the hinged window in the bulkhead by sector 28.
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