DSNGRR: Steam Locomotive Service

[TallGrass]

Part of the allure of taking the Durango-Silverton Narrow Gauge railroad to access Chicago Basin is chance to experience transportation from a different era, rails that were key to the growth and development of many of the towns and mines whose forged routes we trace in pursuit of peaks. Just as our cars have 5/10/50/100,000 mile service, so do locomotives. If you've ever wondered what that entails when the DSNGRR or another pulls one off the line, here's a good look which might yield a greater appreciation for the skill and precision necessary to make and maintain them. Take note of the riveter's perk at 7:25.

https://hackaday.com/2017/11/24/retrote ... ocomotive/



Historical Note: The Jubilee Class train shown derailed in 1948 but was saved and put back in service until retired in 1964.

[LakesNPasses]

What's even more notable about any steam locomotive operation today, is that both the human skills required to maintain and operate the locomotive, and the parts needed, are essentially nonexistent. The skills are passed down from generation to generation, while the parts are often made from scratch. Not easy, not cheap!

[TallGrass]

Some more articles with photos and a video on maintaining the DSNGRR:

Modern technology keeps Durango train steaming along

Hidden Durango: Secrets of the D&SNG train yard

The Jubilee Class train shown derailed in 1948 but was saved and put back in service until retired in 1964.

"The cause was track distortion in hot weather."

Likewise this past June, Durango train derailment likely due to hot weather

[Timothy]

Brings back a lot of memories. As a child I used to love smelling the coal smoke from the train when it passed by heading up the Animas Valley.

[XterraRob]

A true hallmark for the San Juan Mountains and its rich mining history.

[highpilgrim]

A true hallmark for the San Juan Mountains and its rich mining history.

Which sometimes adds festive colors to the Animas and makes fishing much more challenging.

[Stevo]

A true hallmark for the San Juan Mountains and its rich mining history.

Which sometimes adds festive colors to the Animas and makes fishing much more challenging.