CLEVELAND — American Steam Railroad Preservation Association has completed a two-day steam test on American Freedom Train No. 250, with a Federal Railroad Administration inspector noting no issues during the test Feb. 26-27.
The satisfactory test will allow ASR to complete the $2 million restoration to operation for the locomotive built by Reading Co. as its 4-8-4 No. 2100.
The test involved steaming the boiler to its maximum allowable working pressure of 240 PSI and setting the safety relief values under FRA observation. This allowed contractors to also test the boiler, piping, water delivery systems, and throttle under full steam pressure.
The FRA inspection report noted, “No exception taken during observation of satisfactory test of safety relief valves.”
The next steps in the restoration process include running gear work, final plumbing and gauge installation, electronics, installation and jacketing of the boiler, and painting into American Freedom Train colors. The running gear is the focus of the organization’s ongoing “Making Moves” campaign, which includes rod brass replacement and machining, rod straightening, and roller bearing inspections, among other work. Tax deductible donations toward the project can be made at the organization website or by mail to: American Steam Railroad Preservation Association, 2800 W. 3rd St., Cleveland, OH. 44113.
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