Margaret (SP fan) Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> From the most recent GGRM newsletter, dated
> January/February 2013:
>
> "While the GP9 was in operable condition when we
> received it from SP/UP, it had been "well used"
> by
> the railroad. Since these locomotives were at
> the
> end of their lifespan on the railroad, many
> maintenance
> items were deferred in order to save money. This
> required
> extra diligence and inspection by the museum to
> insure that
> minor deferred items didn't turn into major
> problems for us!"
>
> "In addition to the inspection and maintenance
> required
> by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) as
> part of
> the "triennial inspection" and "blue card"
> process, the
> museum also performed the following work:"
>
> The newsletter goes on to list NINE separate
> items, which
> include replacement of two of the cylinder heads,
> a new set
> of locomotive batteries, timing the injectors,
> completely
> overhauling the locomotive's air brake system,
> replacing
> the entire light package and making the Gyralights
> work at
> both ends, and installing a new steam generator,
> among other
> things. When the GGRM is done working on the
> 3194, she will
> have her "blue card". The cosmetic work that is
> needed will
> be done after all the mechanical work is done, and
> she will
> be painted with a new coat of SP scarlet and
> grey.
>
> The GGRM already took her an a "shake-down cruise
> in January,
> and she ran flawlessly. She will be joining the
> SP 2472 on our
> "Spring Steam Event" om March 30 and 31. Tickets
> are available at:
> The Eventbrite website here
>
> Train depart Sunol (east end of Niles Canyon, just
> off CA 84)
> at 11 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm. Do go ride -- you will
> have a great time!
>
> Many thanks go to all the dedicated folks at the
> GGRM for all
> the very hard work they have done on the SP 3194.

That's great news. Thanks Margaret