I came across this thread, and was surprised by the varied information and speculation regarding the York 17, etc. With no intent to offend anyone, but for the sake of facts to discourage rumors, here are a few pieces of information that might help clarify some things:
1. The train generally runs 12-15 mph tender first, 10-15 mph for shoving moves, and 15-18 mph pilot first.
2. All coach windows but four open, and I have yet to see them closed except in a downpour.
3. D Reed Anderson is a lawyer and VP of the company. His father John Hope Anderson was the senator and involved with the Stewartstown Railroad.
4. The builder of the York was David Kloke, not Phil.
5. The funding indeed came from a group of people, well over forty. You can read their names on a wall inside the station.
6. The valve gear was indeed bound up. For those exclaiming lack of lubrication, please be aware that .003-.004 of an inch is required to allow oil TO lubricated a moving part in this type of application.
7. Regarding the railroad and crew being new, rest assured that they all come with 15-25 years of railroading experience, likewise those involved in the direct maintenance of the York also have been professionally working on and maintaining steam locomotives for 10-25 years.
I'm certain I missed a few things, but hope that some extra facts will help.
Reading Fan,
Thanks
Joe
My wife and I purchased tickets for the Steam Into History Ride for July 24th. Wouldn't you know it. The steam engine is out of service and they are now using a diesel. No word on when the steam will be back in service. I bought these tickets a month in advance. The website indicates a boiler inspection. Strange, I thought this train had only been running a few months. Oh well.
