Restoration Notes: A Day in the Life of a Railway Museum.
M.177
The linoleum floor was cut and laid today in the engine compartment. It is notable that this is REAL linoleum, made in Scotland. It is a composite of ground cork, sawdust, and linseed oil. While expensive and hard to find, it is a substance which is very durable and will provide years of use. The panels beneath the windows in the smoking compartment were paint-stripped and sanded. That does it for the paint stripping. The replacement panels for the ceiling were primered and will be ready for installation next weekend.
With the stub switch installation completed, the siding remains to be finished. The track gang was out today, laying ballast and extending the track. This new siding will provide valuable storage space, relieving the already overcrowded main yard.
It was announced today that the #1 engine will be sent out to the Los Angeles Trade Technical College to be rebuilt. It is expected to be returned in 1-2 months. This was arranged through the efforts of Chris Rippy, a new Associate, and student at the college.
Re-assembly of the toilet for the SP 4049 was completed. An additional seat for the 4049 was given to us on permanent loan by SCSRA associate Robert Bennet which will expand the limited seating capacity in the caboose.