When I volunteered at Trolleyville back in the 80s, the 453 was not used regularly. It was pretty much in the same condition as it was when it arrived from the CA&E. I don't believe that they ever pulled parts off for use on the other cars, but never say never. They did at one time put all 4 St. Louis cars and the Pullman 409 together and ran a 5 car steel train, but I did not witness that. As far as the 36 motors having to be reinstalled, they were out when I was there, all rebuilt, and new bearings to put it all together. I mentioned several times that we needed to do this, but it never seemed to be a priority. Sad to see all the hard work by everyone over the years to get squandered. Hopefully, the cars enjoy a long life wherever they go.
Jim Mihalek
Lakeville, MN