T12 #168

[Craig Kumler]

Any updates on the old loco?

[Jonathan Cordova]

not that ive heard craig

[Tom Casper]

It is sitting in Antonito waiting on funding for restoration. I thought I heard a grant request was submitted and awaiting a reply.

Tom C.

[Craig Kumler]

Thanks Tom!

[Tom Casper]

Here is a quote from Stathi Pappas about the status of 168 given out at the recent commision meeting that Sam Seiber transcribed. Thanks Sam and all your helpers

Tom C.

"Stathi Pappas reported on the locomotive 168 project.
The Work on the 168 is progressing nicely. Stathi thanked the commission for the funds from the Historic Preservation Fund so work may begin. He also thanked the campaign capital committee co-chairs Jerry Desic & Scott Gibbs for their efforts to raise further funding. At this time, 3/5th of the required funding have been secured. Additional commitments have been promised that should bring this to 4/5ths. Please don't stop writing checks, there is a need for that final fifth. The case documents and campaign collateral have been developed for large donors. Various grant applications have been submitted to several granting agencies. He also thanked the Narrow Gauge Preservation Foundation for their commitment to the tender work. One new employee has been hired for the 168 project. Solicitations for a second employee for the project are out there, to keep the project moving. Boiler and running gear are in great condition. The tender is being rehabbed. The frame has been braced and welded. The tender tank sheets have been cut and formed by the contractor in Portland OR. The tank should arrive in Antonito in 2 or 3 weeks assembled other than riveting, which can be handled in Antonito. The injectors on the 168 have been tested by the Durango Railroad Historical Society (DRHS) on the 315 engine. Both of the 168 injectors worked flawlessly, a big budget savings. Cab drawings have been made. The Friends will build a new cab. Stathi then asked for any questions. Dick Cowles mentioned that Sam Seiber (me) asked about possible funding avenues for the 168. Currently, Sams employer does not do a donation match with a 170(c)(1) which the 168 fund is. His employer only matches 501(c)(3). Dick asked if perhaps the Friends could establish a donation avenue, so 501(c)(3) funds could be directed to the 168. Stathi answered that the Capital campaign committee is working on just this solution. John Bush mentioned that the DRHS has also been approached as they are also a 501(c)(3). Commissioner Love asked Stathi about risk reduction of the project. That as the project moves along, that no new surprises have appeared that would increase the cost of the work. Stathi replied that the valve & steam chest covers have been removed. The cylinder boars will need to be reboared, but metal thickness is fine. Valve chest was found to be in favorable condition. The port surfaces are nice and thick. The remaining unknown risk factor has to do with the axles. The detailed condition of the axles is not yet known. The budget does not include a major rebuild of the axles. The $501,000 budget looks to be sound at this time. Sam Seiber asked for the target completion of the locomotive. Stathi answered 2019.

[Jason Rose]

Thanks Tom. Thanks Sam!

That is a load of really good news. Very impressive.

[Tom Casper]

On Facebook, The RR is posting pics of the tender tank going together. It is lookin good.

Tom C.