Hold up there, Tubs. For starters, I'm not from Texas. If those locomotives (917D by the way, not 917A) were "broken" when they got to Portola, it's because the Evil Ones at RVJct had long before caused those who cared for them to leave in disgust, and then left that equipment out to rot (before the Dark Times, the 917D had always been kept indoors). Granted, none of that is Portola's problem.
Let me point out that the equipment RVJ got from Portola wasn't exactly showroom quality, either. It will be a remarkable feat if the SN 44-tonner ever runs again, and the SLG&W unit is virtually an empty shell. When you say the 712 at Portola "is not going anywhere," you may be correct in more ways than one (considering some of the other "treasures" I've seen sitting around there)--just try not to bend the frame, okay?
BTW, "known shop drinker" was an inside joke for the benefit of others familiar with the history.
It's actually a long-ago quote from the late Professor Robert Hanft, whom we are grateful for having been acquainted. If you don't get it, never mind.