Hi all
I took Steamtown's Backshop Tour on 10.05.05. The K4 was still sans backhead, flues and numerous other componets.
From what I've been told, the work is in a holding pattern pending FRA inspection. The ranger who led the tour said return-to-service dates have not been set. The restoration is being pursued under a do it right the first time approach.
* * * *
The tender is being *extensively* rebuilt. From a chat with a guy doing the work, most of what folks see from trackside will be new steel. They were riveting in the water spaces when I was there. The coal pocket was to the left of the tender. The K4 was 50' away on one of the inspection-pit shop tracks (next to B&M 3713).
* JB *
Agent at Clicquot