Pacific Coast Railroad Co.

The Blog Has Moved!

2009-01-19T18:06:00.001-08:00

We've got a new home!
http://pcrailroad.wordpress.com

The Blogger page will remain online, however, all future blog entries will be made only on the new site. Archives are transferring slowly, but will eventually all be there as well.

Enjoy!

Boxcar Saturday

2009-01-17T21:52:00.001-08:00

Hi All,
Today we had our Boxcar Saturday. Karl brought his airless paint sprayer and several gallons of paint. Karl ended up with a funny red spotted syndrome on his face! We all hope that it is not contagious. Dennis, Patti, Rob Himoto and myself all had a good time. Patti helped cook the hot dogs and beans on the Cowboy Hibachi. The beans were very good. Later, I steamed up the Caroline, tested the brakes and ran a short photo freight using Karl's boxcar #3126 and the caboose #303. Rob Himoto of the Santa Maria Valley Railroad supplied the fuel for today's event. We still have to some work to do on this boxcar, like rebuild one of the doors and the roof walk. It also needs some minor brake adjustments and lettering. Then, it will be ready for service.

Today was a fun day and we hope for more like it.

Phil

Tender Lettering

2009-01-16T18:41:00.001-08:00

Hi All,

I finished the right side lettering on the Frankenporter It looks pretty
good. Nothing fancy, but it now has lettering on both sides.

Phil

FW: Karl's boxcar

2009-01-10T15:03:00.001-08:00

Here are a few shots of Karl's boxcar; former D. & R.G.W. #3126. It is still a work in progress. I have to build one new door build a new roof walk, do the C.O.T.S., work on the brakes, and letter it up, probably for the P.C.R.

-Phil

Iron Horse Chef: Master of Backhead Cuisine

2008-12-31T10:17:00.000-08:00

2008-12-26T10:31:00.001-08:00

The Iron Horse Chef!

2008-12-20T23:07:00.000-08:00

The Pacific Coast Railroad has been a big fan of backhead cuisine. Sure, we can't sautée with a coal scoop, but we've got a warming tray, the sizzling ledge on our damper-equipped firedoors (and you coal boys thought we oil burners were good-for-nothin's!) and, of course, the ingenuity of our master of the Cab Culinary Arts, Jeff "Grumps" Badger. Those of you who visit this blog regularly are no stranger to Jeff and his pension for piling up the potatoes, Boca products (he's a vegetarian) and whatever else he can scrounge up on the back of the FrankenPorter.

During our Christmas runs last year, Jeff and I decided at whim to make a little documentary of some of the P.C.R.R's oiliest, greasiest railroader rations -- often resulting when we don't get Bonnie Marie's gourmet leftovers from whatever event is being held in the Asistencia or to give the Commissary Committee a break, and it sat around for the better part of a year on my Mini DV camcorder. We started while hostling, and continued throughout the day on the runs he or I sat out from our seatboxes, cooking up a hearty backhead breakfast, lunch, and chocolate chip cookies (of which Jeff had some witilly thought out name for. I'll have to get back to you on what that was). At long last, however, this broke college student/newspaper editor has finally managed to scrounge the dough to roll into the needed technological resources to edit video off his camera. First on the list, of course, was Iron Horse Chef.

The finished product is far from done, but until then, enjoy this teaser!

#1 Update

2008-12-19T14:24:00.000-08:00

I've retrieved our piston and snifters back from El Camino Machine in
Salinas.

With Jim's help, we started to reassemble the left side engine. I also installed the new Snifter valves. Thanks to Jeff who acquired the proper 1 1/4" to 1 1/2" bushings for this upgrade. No more angle cocks!

Here are a few shots of the progress. I have not tested the
work yet. I also want to start a project of putting in a hydrostatic
lubricator for the air compressor.

Sharps & Fellows has sold the rail that was stock piled at the ranch and trucked out their tamper.

I have been working on the Russell steam tractor. Her cylinder rusted and the piston
froze.

-Phil

Another Harpur under steam...sort of

2008-12-04T20:06:00.000-08:00

This little gem runs at Port Aventura theme park near Barcelona, Spain. Although not a bonafide Harpur, per se, it's one of two built for the park by Severn-Lamb Ltd. of Stratford-upon-Avon, UK, and completed in time for the park's 1994 opening. The other masquerades as the Union Pacific 119.

Like it? They're still in business, and you can have your very own for just about $1M!

The Boyz at Pacific Coast

2008-11-19T15:25:00.001-08:00

Starring:
"Koordinator" Karl Hovanitz, Ed "Oilcan" Kelley,
Phil "The CMO" Reader, Dennis "Cookie" Thurman
and Jeff "Grumps" Badger

Didn't like the Disco style?
Go here for the Country Version!

A History of Rancho Santa Margarita

2008-11-19T08:44:00.000-08:00

Provided by Kathy Loftus

Santa Margarita de Cortona Asistencia

Padre Juan Crespi first recorded the site of Santa Margarita de Cortona on his trip to Monterey in 1769. The lush, fertile valley of Santa Margarita has year-round flowing creeks due to an average rainfall of over 30 inches. This was a natural site for the padres to establish a extension mission. It was believed to have been used as an assistant mission for the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa. It was formally recognized in 1787, with a number of adobes structures in use. A days journey over the Cuesta Pass to San Luis Obispo and to San Miguel Mission--it was a perfect meeting place for Padres, and a layover for travelers along El Camino Real. The valley provided many crops and large herds of livestock were raised here, with the assistance of a large Chumash Indian population.

Built of rock and mortar, the Asistencia is one of the first uses of mortar in California, believed to be built in 1817. The Asistencia consisted of a chapel at the west end with six inner rooms and a granary on the east end. The rock tallow vats are still in place at the creek’s edge where tallow was rendered and hides were tanned, from the large herds of cattle that roamed the grass lands. These hides were often used in place of money. Today, there are still remnants of the red tiles used on the adobe’s roofs. The kiln where they were fired is still evident. When the Mission was flourishing, there were numerous adobe buildings upon the knoll, but today, only the ones that were covered in wood in the 1860’s remain.

Joaquin Estrada

A twenty-six year old Joaquin Estrada received a Mexican land grant of 17,735 acres in 1841 -- considered on of the best land grants in all of California, it was named “Queen of the Cattle Ranchos”. Estrada became one of early California’s most prominent citizens, being elected to San Luis Obispo County’s first Board of Supervisors and became the county’s first Treasurer. In 1846, then Governor Pio Pico and General Jose Castro met at Estrada’s home to plan their defeat of the Americans and retain Alta California. It was less than a year later that Fremont came to Rancho Santa Margarita and arrested Estrada and his major domo, still believing their allegiance was to Mexico. Estrada was known for his lavish lifestyle and “Early California Rancho Hospitality“. He was famous for holding grand fiestas that lasted for weeks at a time. He even brought the first circus to the county to entertain his guests at the rancho. The severe droughts of the early 1860’s coupled with his lavish lifestyle, forced him to sell the rancho.

Patrick Murphy

Martin and Mary Murphy came to California two years before the Donner Party and settled in the Santa Clara Valley. They bought the ranch in 1861 for their son Patrick. Under Patrick’s reign the ranch prospered again with large herds of Mexican cattle. He also continued the “Early California Rancho Hospitality” of large fiestas and rodeos, and was famous for his generosity to all. He also purchased Rancho Atascadero and Rancho Asuncion, expanding his land holdings to over 70,000 acres. He was instrumental as a founder of San Luis Obispo County, serving in the California Assembly and was elected State Senator for four terms. His tremendous foresight, is evident in his establishing the town of Santa Margarita in 1889, along with a railhead, he was primilary responsible for the railroad coming the coastal route. He covered and expanded Estrada’s adobe house and other adobe buildings with white clapboard, they look much the same today as they did when Patrick Murphy reigned over the Rancho.
Patrick never recovered from the death of his wife and child in 1875. Once again, a levish lifestyle and the drought of the 1899-1900 forced the sale of the Rancho.

1900 to 2000

The Reis family from San Francisco bought the ranch in 1901. In 1904 they tore down the inner walls of the Asistencia and built a barn over it. More acreage was farmed and large numbers of sheep were run on the ranch. They owned the ranch until the time of William Reis’ passing, although the ranch was leased out for most of Reis’ ownership. William Reis willed the ranch to Stanford University. Stanford held it for a very brief period and sold it to the Robertson family from Texas who owned it from 1975 to 2000, when they sold it to Rob Rossi.

Present

Today the 13,900 acre ranch is owned by three families the Rossi, Filipponi and Wittstrom. A major emphasis has been put into the stewardship of the ranch. With the use of cattle in a high densisity, short duration rotational grazing program, the ranch has seen perennial grasses comeback, a lush riparian habitat thrive and a large oak tree regeneration. Along with the grazing practices on the ranches grassland the ranches 975 acre vineyard was of the first safe harbor agreements using many conservation practices. To enable this better stewardship, the ranch has invested in fencing and water development projects. The ranch has been recognized for its management practices with several stewardship awards.

The ranch because of its unique history has become a favorite place for numerous fundraisers for non-profits in the county, it also hosts many tours and private events. Today as it was 150 years ago, the ranch is famous for its, “Early California Rancho Hospitality!”

Harpur Hiccup

2008-10-30T22:33:00.001-07:00

Went down to help out at the RR today. After talking with Phil earlier this week on the phone, I knew we would have our work cut out for us. The Harpur took out a piston ring on the fireman's side. We pulled the crosshead guides apart to get at the wrist pin. Once it was out, I got the hot wrench to remove the crosshead so the piston and rod could be removed.

After removing the piston, we see in this picture the damage. Looks like the piston had prior damage to the casting. The piece will be on its way to a machine shop next week for repairs.

Well looks like we need more lubrication for the jugs on this ol girl. So we will be remedying that next.

Zen Master & Grumps seen running in helper service.

2008-10-16T14:39:00.001-07:00

Last weekend Phil & Jeff were seen running in helper service on the Hillcrest & Wahotke RR near Reedley. A rather substantial freight consist needed help over the route, and the call went out to the rather stout Glenwood number one-three, bringing up the rear with crummy in tow.

On the head end were the North Pacific Coast #12, and the Glenwood #5. Cut in the middle of the train was the Redwood Valley #11. With this four engine lashup, quick work was made of the turn and we all went to beans in short order.

For more info and pix, go here

New Brakestand For No. 1

2008-09-25T20:59:00.000-07:00

The "Caroline" got a new (Re built) K14 brake stand with independent. A deal was struck with Rob Himoto and the Santa Maria Valley Railroad to acquire it. and Dennis brought it up to the ranch. Many thanks to Rob and his staff.

Yesterday Jeff and I fired up and tested the #1 It steamed really good and was tight as a drum. Seven hours after we shut it down, it still had over forty pounds of steam on the gauge.

I am very happy with the new firing quadrant and system. It is much improved. Thanks goes to Jeff Badger and Ted Van Klaveren for helping me with some re-plumbing work

-Phil

Fall Update

2008-09-19T20:15:00.000-07:00

Just in case blog visitors were thinking that all we do around the PCRR is BBQ and go to great wedding celebrations, we thought it would be good to show that a lot of work goes into keeping the equipment running around here.

If any of you recall the firing valve on the Harpur, it was a pretty poor excuse for railroad appropriate and did not offer the positive control that one would like for this application. Starting with just a rough idea and some raw metal, Phil designed and built this total awesome firing quadrant and installed it this week. It not only looks great, but gives the impression that it is going to perform perfectly, too.

The Harpur also had a weepy tube. With her really tiny firebox door it was going to be a test to see how to get someone in there with the new touch up roller to seal things up...with Oilcan back in New York! With the purchase of several long 1/2" extensions and some clever mechanical maneuvering, and some frustrating set backs with the touch up roller stuck in the tube! It looks like Phil might have been successful. We will see if we can run a squeeze this weekend and determine if we nailed it or have to send Oilcan a plane ticket.

We have also been putting a little time in on Karl Hovanitz Denver and Rio Grande boxcar #3126. The plan is to keep it looking aged, but get some linseed oil on the wood and then repaint it, straighten some grab irons, replace the roof walk and make a couple of mechanical repairs. We are starting to set a date for a Karl's Boxcar Saturday for volunteers to come and help out with this project.

After some rather baffling electrical problems with the #594 Plymouth, we ordered some new ignition parts and installed them this week. Unfortunately, she still has issues starting, so we asked our friend, Joel Switzer of Switzer Diesel Repair in Santa Margarita, to send one of his guys over to take a look and see if we can get her running again.

We ran with the other Plymouth Thursday night for a group of wine retailer buyers who were visiting the Ranch as part of the promotion for the Wittstroms' Ancient Peaks wines. The Ancient Peaks tasting room is about to open on the main street of Santa Margarita and we are all looking forward to sharing that happy occasion with, Karl, Rob's ranch partner. The next time you are in town and want to try some really great wines at a good value, stop by and give Ancient Peaks a try. We will post more on them when the tasting room has their grand opening.

Boo!

We are expecting about 80 or 90 senior visitors this week coming up to the Ranch on a bus tour. We always enjoy these trips as they usually provide some great stories of how train travel was back in their day. Then we start to wonder what we will be saying about trains when we get to be their age!

-Karell

"Roger" Returns Home

2008-09-15T07:17:00.000-07:00

The Roger Linn came home today. It is still out of service and in need of a new boiler. the plan is for me to do the tear down and ship the boiler off for replication. Also today the Plymouth #584 was turned around so it now faces the right direction.

-Phil

"Cookie" Ties The Knot!

2008-09-09T21:27:00.000-07:00

This weekend marked a special occasion for the PCRR volunteers as we celebrated the wedding of Patti LaRose and Dennis Thurman at the Bittercreek Western. It was a perfectly beautiful day at the Bittercreek with all their friends and family arriving in the morning to the sight of steam engines lined up in the steaming bays and circling the miles of track. The railroading contingent was decked out in railroad attire to complement the bride and groom. Karl Hovanitz served as best man and Patti's good friend, Dawn, attended her as matron of honor. Dennis' sister, who is a minister, performed the vows which had many of us teary eyed.

After the ceremony, a delicious chicken barbecue was served by Harry and Mary Harlow, Ginny Orcutt-Clenard and Rob Himoto. This delicious fare was followed by train rides provided by Karl, Jeff Badger, Harry Harlow and numerous other Bittercreek regulars. Since Patti's bridal bouquet was a signal lantern and could not be tossed easily, the lantern was passed to Stephanie, Karl's sweetheart. Everyone had a wonderful time and wished the newlyweds well on their honeymoon to northern California. Congratulations and lots of love to Patti and Dennis.

May the weather be fair,
The tracks ahead be clear,
Your signals be green,
As you get the highball on your new life together.

The happy couple

-Phil and Karell

Astroworld Steam Man Visits Ranch

2008-08-25T19:35:00.000-07:00

We had Tad Lewis visit us today. Tad used to work for Astroworld with
the Caroline when he was younger. Now he drives a tour bus for Robert
Earl Keen and his band.

For Tad, seeing the #1 under steam brought back many memories and some good stories. As a thank you, Tad set it up for Karell and I to see Robert's concert at the Pozo Saloon. (Robert Earl is a regular on legendary KPIG Radio, broadcast from Freedom, CA, and syndicated on 94.9FM Cambria/SLO -ed.)

Karell and I had a great time at the concert today and would like to
thank Robert Earl Keen, his band, and of course Tad for having us as their guests.

As the lyrics to Robert Earl's song says, "the road goes on forever and the
party never ends." In the case of #1, "the road goes on forever and
the adventure continues."

-Phil

"Dr. Quinn" Clip Featuring No. 2

2008-08-18T11:04:00.000-07:00

Just after 7:25...

Before: After

2008-08-07T09:12:00.000-07:00

#1 ready to load in Houston, 1/06

#1 in 2008

#1 Update

2008-08-07T09:06:00.000-07:00

As of this afternoon I finally finished the work on the front end. It was a mess when I started. The petticoat was about ready to fall off and it was ripped and full of holes and cracks I had to remove it and pent a day patching it back together before it got reinstalled.

<= front end after. front end before (below)

I then turned my attention the blower system. This was also a mess and very having only a 1/2" pipe pointed up the petticoat. For a better draft I built and installed a blower ring.
This new system was tested on air this afternoon and already has made a big difference and should be really better on steam.

Last week I also buttoned up the steam dome with the new throttle inside and ran a hydro test to 200psi. I hope to run a steam test this week. During all this I also worked in the cab on the Johnson, sight glass light, throttle guide and re-labeled the the Fireman's manifold.

Still more work to do and get it cleaned and polished for visitors from the upcoming Bittercreek Western Narrow Gauge meet.

-Phil

P.C.R.R. Lends a Helping Hand

2008-07-21T18:24:00.000-07:00

This weekend it was our honor to be a part of the second annual Jack's Helping Hand charity BBQ and fundraiser. Unfortunately, because of the extreme fire hazard this year at the ranch, we did not have the option of running a steam locomotive for this event, so we ran the Plymouth #594 with two Disney coaches instead. The crew for the day included Dennis Thurman, Karl Hovanitz, Harry Harlow, Patty LaRose, Brad LaRose, Karell Reader, Bill Russ, Mike Orcutt-Clenard and Jim McEntire.

For lunch Karell made her famous "Hobo Beans" in a dutch oven that were very good. Later, we were treated to a delicious tri-tip BBQ dinner

The Jack's Helping Hand fundraiser was a success, raising over $90,000 from the live auction. For more information on Jack's Helping Hand, go to http://www.jackshelpinghand.org

Work continues on the the #1. The sand dome conversion job is going well and Phil is still waiting on the delivery of the new throttle valve. With any luck it should arrive this week.

We also passed the annual state boiler inspection with flying colors on Engines #1 and # 3.

-Phil & Karell Reader

Round-Up Montage '08: Part 1

2008-05-18T11:53:00.000-07:00

Double-headed freight charging the grade (Russ Sperry photo)

In railroading tradition, the No. 1 carried this funeral wreath in memory of Judy McEntire, wife of Chief Operating Officer Jim McEntire and a good friend of the PCRR crew. Judy passed away the week of the round-up and the event was dedicated in her memory. (Perhaps her watching over everyone was what kept the weekend running so smoothly).

Coach #105 returning fully restored from Hillcrest.
The final touches were just barely dry, and it's beautiful!

In Reedley, mere days before the event

Jarret, Karl, Bill and Dennis making a speeder run

The Iron Horse Chef is at it again! Quiche was the hit this year, and once again, he's managed to abscond with the misses' baking pan...

Who needs a clean paper plate when you've got a perfectly grimy firing quadrant?!

Grumps modifying the cylinder cock lever with an 8-ball? Signs point to yes...

Another from El Loco Senor Russo (or Russ Sperry Photo,
for those of you who don't hablar espanol...)

Misc. Photos from Grumps and Phil

4/27/08

2008-04-27T13:49:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures from today. We actually ran the #3 around for a TV crew earlier today then we ran the #1 for the event. The Caroline did well.

-Phil

Fundraiser (and first revenue run of #1 this year)

Patti and Mary

Rob H. and "Cookie" (Dennis T.)

Back in the day...

2008-04-23T23:43:00.000-07:00

Part of the maintenance of our steam locomotives includes the dead weight testing of our pressure gauges. This assures that our readings are correct and does not allow for assumptions in case something happens. On Monday Grump's was in town to help out, and after warming up in the shop (it has been a bit like winter this week), and chewing some Iron Horse Manure with CMO Reader, set out to test and repair the gauges and the gauge tester. Phil picked up this fine bit of American Technology on Ebay last year. It is very complete and a testament to the excellent craftsmanship that is rarely seen today. It was made by Ashcroft.

After filling the reservoir and charging the pressure cylinder with a light weight mineral oil (sorry Castro Oil doesn't work), the gauge to be tested is placed on the manifold. Then weights that correspond to the amount of pressure you want to check are added to the lift cylinder. You then screw the pressure cylinder clockwise until the weights are suspended on the lift. Rotate the weights slowly as they float on the lift cylinder and check your gauge to see if it is correct.

Here we see the gauge from the Harpur on the test stand with 120 pounds of weight on the lift cylinder which is suspended. The oil reservoir is on the right and the large screw is the charge cylinder. Well the gauge is a little off wouldn't you say?

There are a couple ways of calibrating the gauges so they register correctly. Some you can access by removing the Bourdon Tube assembly from the case and adjusting the mechanism at the pivot fulcrum which has a set screw. On others you need to remove the needle and replace it back on the stem. This kit came with all the tools to adjust both of these types of gauges. On this particular one I removed the needle and replaced it so it reads correctly.

On the right of this gauge you see the needle puller and its case.

With the gauge re-calibrated it is then cleaned and polished and placed back on the locomotive ready for service once again. I really like this gauge. I found it on Ebay last year and paid only $35.00 plus shipping. What a deal!

Well after testing several steam and air gauges it was time for some maintenance on the dead weight tester itself. It has always leaked oil from the charge cylinder screw so it needed a new seal. When the old one was removed, it was shaped like a faucet washer, only this one was made from leather. In the cowboy shop Phil found a faucet washer set and I proceeded to combine two rubber washers and make a seal that fit and worked perfectly. Wow I should have done that first before I checked all those gauges!

Phil was out peeling paint from the Harpur's drivers which are getting a new coat of Colonial Red.

Phil also put on this very nice Westinghouse air brake gauge for the independent side of the #1.

Two in the Yard

2008-04-22T16:05:00.000-07:00

Dave Swift & Co. are in town and they welded up the frog on the main line. In the morning they will build up the second frog.

Here is a cellphone picture of the first time that two steamers have entered the yard at one time...

-Phil

Cleaning Up the Caroline

2008-04-20T16:07:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures of the #1 This past week I have been sprucing in up some. So far the cellar boxes have been dropped, cleaned, and re-packed. I have also stripped the pilot and repainted it. Currently I have been stripping the wheels and re painting them as well. The wheels are being painted with Rustoleum "Colonial red"and I have opted not to paint the white on the tires. I have also taken the driver star castings, polished the star and painted the background the same red.

I think this "new look" is alright and it does make the drivers look taller. The #1 will look good but not great for the Roundup. Maybe someday it will get the shopping that it really needs to make it the jewel that it can be.

-Phil

Pug Shot!!

The Cowboy Hibachi

2008-04-16T15:34:00.000-07:00

Write-up on fellow railroader/chef Steve Karoly's blog about CMO Reader's famous multi-purpose B.B.Q. apparatus:

http://roundthechuckbox.blogspot.com/2008/03/cowboy-hibachi.html

2008 SPRING TRAINING

2008-04-06T14:36:00.000-07:00

The 2008 Railroad Round-up is fast approaching and scheduled for May 10 and 11, which means that the annual PCRR crew training is being planned for all day Friday, May 9^th.

There are a few minor and some procedural changes to the book that we would like to share with you during the training session.

Please bring leather work gloves, safety glasses and/or any other safety items you may need.

You can review your new Rulebook before the training sessions begin by requesting it here.

One of the many aspects that our railroad prides itself on is this rulebook. Developed by W.T. "Buda" Farquhar after the successful Georgetown Loop Inc. Since the initial book 4 years ago, we have gleaned additional information from several other steam operated shortlines and put together this well layed out design that fits in your back pocket. A lot of work goes into making these books.

Here is a picture of the messiest office in the west during production.
This year the contents were transfered over to MS Word to make it more accessible to everyone communicating with email. After a week of corrections, additions,
deletions, and 4 black printer cartridges, the book is ready to be assembled.

With collating completed all that's left to do is folding, stitching and trimming. The cover color this year is S.P. Safety Orange.

The rulebook has come along way from just sheets of paper to a very professional looking and personalized official document.

Spring at the Pacific Coast Railroad

2008-03-28T20:38:00.000-07:00

Well spring is here and the grass is green and wildflowers are in full bloom everywhere on the Central Coast of California. Jeff Badger came down this week after a busy month of booming around various railroads that first began at the Hillcrest & Wahtoke in Reedley. He spent some time firing and running the Glenwood #13 on Sunday, March 9.

Then he was off to Southern California to "freak out" some UP crews in San Timeteo Canyon on the Beaumont Pass/Sunset Route. Remember that Railfanning is not a crime. On the weekend of March 15, Jeff picked up his new live steamer at the Maricopa Live Steamers in North Phoenix, Arizona, where Phil and Karell had been just two weeks before.

After the long drive home to Santa Cruz, Jeff got a call from Mr. Jefferys that Roaring Camp needed help for the upcoming Easter Egg specials. On Friday he went over to see where he was needed and was promptly thrown into the cab of the Dixiana Shay to re-familiarize himself with the machine per John Bush's request. Phil Reader happened to be in town for a bit and wandered over to say hi to the gang. Easter Sunday morning Jeff arrived at the engine house and drew the second section firing job with veteran engineer Tom Shreve. Having only ridden on the #2 Heisler a few times, this was going to be an interesting day for sure. Back in 1968, Jeff's first visit to Roaring Camp included a ride behind this locomotive.

Yep that's Jeff on the right with his father and sister.

Four trips were made that day sharing the firing duties with another former Roaring Camp alumnus Norm Comer who is working at Railtown 1897 doing the restoration on Sierra #3. The day went better than expected. We got up and down the hill with water and steam, but I was tired from the noise and vibration in that locomotive.

But now to the duties at the Ranch...

Our first order of business was a field trip to MTM in Fremont, CA to deliver six sets of 2'gauge drivers for machining. Karl drove while Phil and I watched the scenery go by and shot the breeze. Gary Smith the owner of MTM is an avid live steamer and is currently restoring an 1890 Porter 0-4-0T that we hope to see running soon at the ranch.

Gary has been doing contract work for the Disneyland Railroad and here we see one of the wheelsets being trued up on a lathe.

MTM manufactures a variety of components for automobile, motorcycle, and military manufacturers among many others, and the stuff we saw was first class. Thanks Gary for the tour and lunch! On the way back we stopped in Salinas at California Railtours to pick up a donated genset for the La Condesa, a private obs car which belongs to the San Luis Obispo RR Museum and runs on occasion at the Santa Maria Valley Railroad. Here we see the yard with just a sampling of the ongoing work they do on private cars.

We got a tour of a dome-lounge-observation car.

A good time was had by all. The next day it was time to get down to business...

Our Harpur #1 "Caroline" threw a lateral shim from the left rear driver last May during the roundup. An initial repair was attempted by Phil and Jeff in December and it was test run but the repair was not successful. Jeff was determined to find a way to make the solid brass shim adhere to the aluminum bronze driver box. After a few phone calls and some advise from a welder friend, he found a product that works with a mig type wire feed welder. After prepping the surfaces and working between the spokes the welding began. Phil preheated the box so the welder would have a head start on the process.

Jeff shows how difficult the welding process is with no facilities or equipment for removing the drivers, the repair is made in place by moving the locomotive, so the spokes line up for access.

Well it ain't pretty but it penetrated!

CMO Reader inspects the job

Well after a repair like that is made, its mandatory to do proper testing. So we positioned the #1 at the Granary and prepared her for fire-up. As steam was building, Phil noticed that the lubricator was sluggish on one feed line, so having a brand new one on the shelf, Jeff and Dennis replaced it.

After building steam for a couple hours, we took the #1 around the railroad. With some settling in, the shim held up with four runs being made. You know when the whistle blows in Santa Margarita, everyone shows up! We coupled up to the Retlaw 1 cars and made up a train. Here is the crew from Thursday March 27.

L-R Hotwater LaRose, Cookie Thurman, Hack Harlow, Grumps Badger, Highball Hovanitz
First names have been changed to protect the innocent.

Since we are down one engine, having the #1 back in service is a relief and it will really put on a show for the railroad roundup in May. Several of Phil's video shots from this run are on Youtube. Here is a video Jeff shot while running yesterday...

1935 Film Featuring Original PCRy

2008-03-19T18:23:00.000-07:00

The 1935 motion picture Diamond Jim featured scenes shot on the original Pacific Coast Railway, which ran from San Luis Obispo in the north to Avila/Port San Luis and Los Olivos in the south. PCRy Nos. 106 and 110, both Consolidations, are featured. Here is a clip from YouTube showing a staged collision to test the durability of the "first steel passenger coach," filmed near what is now the city corporation yard south of Prado Road in San Luis Obispo. In actuality, the "steel" coach is a PCRy wooden coach (103) masqueraded with fiberboard and fake rivets. The wrecked wooden coach (101) had been structurally weakened for the wreck while the 103 was anchored to the rails.

The diamond stacks and square headlights on the locomotives are also, of course, fake. No. 106 was destroyed three years later after being hit broadside by a gasoline truck and consumed by the resulting fire.

Info - Phil Reader, Dennis Thurman

SLO Intl' Film Festival

2008-03-12T11:12:00.001-07:00

...featuring special guests Keith Carradine and Ernest Borgnine!

Engine Crew - K. Hovanitz, H. Harlow, J. McEntire
Train Crew - B. LaRose, P. Deis, D. Thurman, P. LaRose

Oil Can's Awesome Steak

2008-03-08T16:19:00.001-08:00

A P.C.R.R. tradition being cooked on a genuine Phil Reader "Cowboy Hibachi" -- on the other side of the country! Slow-marinated rotisserie Santa Maria-style tri-tip, and the inaugural meal from this particular apparatus. C/n 27 (or so), completed 12/07 in the Santa Margarita Ranch tractor shop...

Badger-built Live Steamer for Sale

2008-03-06T15:42:00.001-08:00

Jeff Badger, P.C.R.R. Engineer/Asst.M.O./live steam builder extraordinaire, is selling his latest project -- a freshly-rebuilt 7-1/2" gauge 0-4-2RT and coaches. The locomotive is a "Chloe" by Allen Models. For more information, see Jeff's ad on Discover Live Steam or his own blog.

In addition to working on the "big ones," Jeff has been building/rebuilding live steam locomotives for 20+ years, his last project being the "Stanley Snook" -- a 3" scale 2-4-2.

CMO on the Go -- Final Installment

2008-03-02T13:36:00.000-08:00

The skies were vivid blue and clear as the Readers headed south on Highway 17 to Phoenix. Through the sage and salt bush desert lands and through the passes, it made for a very pretty drive. The reservation casinos were about the only break in scenery from the native fauna.

Just outside of Phoenix there was a new element to the scenery. If you know Saydee, the Readers littlest pug, you know her eyesight and judgment are somewhat lacking. As they drove down the highway, she suddenly bolted upright, hackles raised and barked ferociously, sending Phil and Karell into hysterical laughter. Saydee had seen the menacing Saguaro cactus in the desert and decided that she should protect her precious family and try to chase those cactus intruders off with a fearsome attack. It was too funny for words, watching her repeated attempts, all to no avail. The Saguaro army was steadfast.

Pulling into Phoenix at last, the Readers checked into their hotel and went exploring to get an idea of how the city was laid out. They found downtown, Mesa, Tempe and Scottsdale.
One of the main reasons for a stop in Phoenix was to catch a Cactus League game and pickings looked pretty good. After a couple of quick internet searches, the Readers purchased seats online for the Giant vs. Cubs game at Scottsdale Stadium. This, also, allowed them time to do some sightseeing the day before. While scoping out the stadium in Scottsdale they found the Railroad Park, which provided lots of sights and some wonderful ice cream cones.

After a good nights sleep, Phil and Karell headed off to see the Maricopa Live Steamers in north Phoenix. This is an amazing little operation with miles of track through the desert, wonderful facilities and plenty of great ideas. It was the middle of the week and pretty quiet but the Readers found some nice folks and got a ride. The work crew was busy out on the line. Phil was quite taken by a little shay that lived there. It was fun to imagine what the place would be like on a steam up day - with a full yard and trains coming and going every couple of minutes.

It was getting hot and after a quick lunch at In and Out Burger the Readers headed off to Taliesen West. Taliesen West was the winter quarters for Frank Lloyd Wright's architecture program. It was too hot to leave the pugs in the car, but Phil kindly dropped Karell off to take a tour while he and the pugs shopped and cooled off down the road. Karell's passion for architecture and design go back a long way and it was wonderful for Karell to get a chance to learn first hand about Frank Lloyd Wright's life and work on the Sororan Desert.

Thursday broke again with beautiful Phoenix weather, The pugs were bundled off to the groomers for the day to get cleaned up and to stay cool, while the Readers headed to Scottsdale for the game. Parking was pricey near the park, but the local church was selling spots for $5 and helping a local cause seemed like a good idea. Scottsdale Stadium is just a lovely little park. The mayor of Scottsdale threw out the first pitch and the former chief of police sang the national anthem. Phil and Karell had great seats. The game was almost a sell out. While their beloved Giants did not look that great other than a couple of bright fielding moments, with a score of Cubs 12 Giants 6, it was still a great day to watch baseball.

Friday dawned and it was the long haul home back to Santa Margarita. We are still trying to figure out what the snowbird attraction to Quartzite, Arizona is. It looks like a pretty barren patch and must have some kind of attributes that are less visible. The drive was long and LA traffic was again painful. They attempted another mid-day stop at Hercules Power Equipment to check on the Roger Linn, but Dave Laban was out of the shop working at another site, so they did not connect again. Twelve hours on the road and the Readers were back home and in bed by 9 PM Friday. Greeted by the kitties, Zee and Gidget, our thanks to Harry and Mary for looking after them, it was good to be back on Rancho Santa Margarita.

CMO on the Go -- Part 4

2008-03-02T13:34:00.000-08:00

After wrapping up as much as possible at the house in Idaho Springs, including changing the locks, the Readers headed south again for some sightseeing on the way home. The first stop of interest was Trinidad at the Colorado/New Mexico border. Trinidad is a little Victorian jewel of a city and has a Burlington Northern steam locomotive on display in their park with some other interesting old equipment. The engine is well preserved and presented. It is evident that Trinidad values their history and they can be very proud of their efforts.

Crossing the border late in the evening, Phil thought he remembered a short cut south.
Karell looked at the map and the only short cut looked like Highway 64 through Cimmaron, which is the jumping off point for Philmont National Boy Scout Reservation. It looked pretty direct and should get them to Albuquerque before it got really late. WRONG!! Highway 64 is not anything like the depiction on the map, It winds and climbs to 15K feet and passes through Angel Fire, a ski resort. It was 32 degrees, snowy and the roads were steep and icy. The Readers were very grateful that Karell had just bought new tires for the trip and that they had 4-wheel drive as they climbed up and down the icy passes, passing six or more cars that had slid off the road into snow banks and down steep cliffs. It was pretty, but far too dangerous to be fun. The mountain pueblo of Taos was a welcome sight and the sweet fragrance of sage filled the crisp mountain air.

Phil and Karell tried to push on toward Albuquerque, but wearily gave in and found a motel in one of the many Indian reservation's casino towns.

Up the next morning and into Albuquerque for a little break from the road, The New Mexico Natural History Museum is right downtown in a re-development area with lots of upscale shopping and a short drive to the old plaza market. It was at the Natural History Museum the Readers met their new dinosaur friend, Spike. The museum is very well done with lots of great displays like Stan the T-Rex, interactives, a planetarium and theater. The feature display was on the cowboys of the world and their horses.
It is well worth the time.

Pushing on again, the Readers stopped in Flagstaff, Arizona for the night, Flagstaff was covered in snow with freezing cold wind, but it was a safe harbor for the night.

CMO on the Go -- Part 3

2008-02-28T17:42:00.000-08:00

We visited the Colorado Railroad Museum on Friday and spent the morning exploring the museum grounds. It was fun to see all the improvements, but it was hard to see the Georgetown Loop equipment deteriorating. All of the Loop equipment is worst for the wear. The paint is peeling or faded. All the locomotives are in need of repair work. It was, however, good to see these "old friends." Hopefully, some day I can help find a new home for this equipment for the enjoyment for all.

The #346 looks really good. There are some minor issues to work through, but overall they have done a fine job of restoring it back to service.

The rotary plow and the UP 0-6-0 have been moved into the museum grounds from their old home across the street and the ditch from the spur off of the BNSF/Coors line. From the description this was quite an adventure with temporary track and a lot of come-alongs. Very ingenious. It was nice to see them with the rest of the collection.

Karell spent a few hours tracing D.&R.G.W. stencils for Karl's box car.

We met with Gus and Lou, volunteers, and Donald Tallman, the new Executive Director. Unfortunately, Andy Daum no longer works for the museum, but he has accepted a job working for Bernie Watts in his shop nearby.

All the volunteers are really excited about the restoration of the RGS #20 and are looking forward to its return.

CMO on the Go -- Part 2

2008-02-24T18:29:00.000-08:00

After leaving the Grand Canyon, the Readers headed east again toward New Mexico.
Spending the night in Albuquerque, the next stop was Santa Fe. Santa Fe has a "museum hill"
complex with three of their big museums and a research laboratory all within a short walk from a central courtyard. The Native American museum was well done and focuses on the southwestern tribes and their long history adapting to the desert natural environment and the influence of the Europeans.

The Mexican Colonial Period museum was small, but showed what life was like for the early Mexican colonists as they moved into the southwest and many things there were significant to what was also occurring in California -- a parallel to history on the Santa Margarita Ranch. The museum of folk art was just fun and whimsical, drawing common themes out of folk art from all over the world including textile art, quilts and figurines and dolls.

Pushing on toward Pueblo, Colorado the Readers drove through Las Vegas, NM. (Yes, the other Las Vegas!) A sleepy little town with not a whole lot going for it. None the less it quickly got Phil and Karell's attention. As they turned to go through town on the main street, both their heads snapped back as they spotted an abandoned roundhouse. It was a very cool old Santa Fe Roundhouse with the remaining yard office for the old division point. Just outside of town, was an old ATSF engine on display. Brightly colored and with many parts just rotted away, it was kind of a sad sight. Too bad many cities cannot seem to allow their display engines any dignity in their retirement.

After reaching the Colorado border late at night, the Readers breathed a sigh of relief to be that much closer to home. After the night in Pueblo, they jammed north on I-25 toward Denver. Denver was a welcome sight, out on the plains with the beautiful snow-capped Rockies in the background. They went straight up to Idaho Springs to check on their house and the news there was not good. The tenant still was not moved out, the driveway and yard showed evidence of getting the worst of a flash flood and the property manager had had no luck finding the tenant, who apparently had not been in the house for some time. After some frustrating calls to disconnected numbers, the tenant wandered into the office with a long list of excuses of why the rent was not paid and they were not moved out of the house. After some stressful negotiations, she agreed to get the rest of her stuff out that day and allow Phil and Karell to take possession of their house again.

That night the Readers stayed in Lakewood on the west side of Denver. An early trip back to the house the next day revealed that indeed the tenant was mostly moved out, but the house was left in pretty bad shape. The flash flood had gotten right up to the sills, the walls were pockmarked with molly bolt holes, all the carpet needs replacing, faucets were broken, the refrigerator dead and, worst of all, the well pump and filters had been allowed to freeze, were wrecked and needed about $500 in repairs. Not the kind of news you need to hear, when your tenant was able to sneak out of their security deposit by using it for the "last" month's rent a few months earlier.

The older pugs were excited to get back to their old home and settled right in, with little Saydee, forever the clown, figuring out how to jump up on the fireplace mantle to get a better view of the situation. Despite not having a whole lot to laugh about, Saydee's antics always seem to brighten even the most desolate situations. That and a good pizza dinner at Beau Jo's was enough to put a better light on things.

A trip to the Colorado Railroad Museum had a mixed effect the next day. Seeing all the Loop equipment in varying states of disuse and disrepair was very hard. Karell had fun going through the Rio Grande stencil collection at the museum and making tracings for Karl Hovanitz' Denver and Rio Grande Western boxcar. Phil took lots of pictures at the museum, most of which we can highlight in the next travelogue entry, but we have included a picture of a museum boxcar similar to Karl's.

Phil and Karell

OT: How To Clean Your Monitor

2008-02-22T18:36:00.000-08:00

Is this Saydee?! :P http://cache.valleywag.com/assets/resources/screenclean.swf

Karl's Boxcar

2008-02-22T10:49:00.000-08:00

I have been doing a little work on Karl's Box Car. It is former D.& R.G.W. #3126.

I have replaced some missing siding and have done a little patching. Tomorrow I will be warming up the #3 and starting in on the end door. I have already fixed the brake pipe.

The plan is to scrape, paint and letter it and hopefully use it for the round-up. How does a doublehead freight train sound? Still some odds and ends to do, such as a roof walk and COTS work on the brakes.

-Phil

CMO On The Go!

2008-02-20T17:02:00.000-08:00

On Friday February 15th , the Readers headed south and then east on a working vacation to Colorado.

The first stop was supposed to have been a visit to the Hercules Power Equipment shop for a look at the torn down Vulcan. Unfortunately, the three-day weekend traffic in LA was terrible as everyone in the LA basin seemed to be going to Las Vegas, which put a crimp in getting to the shop early enough to meet David Laban and look at the locomotive. After a quick regroup, the Readers headed off west and spent the night in the town of Needles. Needles is a hot bed of BNSF activities with container trains passing through every 10 minutes or so.

Once up and back on the road, the Readers were westward bound into Arizona. The first stop of interest was the park engine in Kingman, Arizona. After a rest break and some railfan photo shots of the engine and caboose, it was onward again toward Williams, Arizona, for a look at the Grand Canyon. BNSF continued to have active freight activity as the line parallels the old Route 66, now known as Highway 40 east.

Arriving in Williams in the late afternoon, the Readers stopped in to see the Grand Canyon Railway and explore the depot and hotel. On display was the Arizona Railroad Museum's three-truck Shay, which provided fuel for Phil's curiosity. The train arrived in the depot at about 5:30 PM and a trainload of happy passengers disembarked. After a phone call to the Reader's good friend Natasha Bettis was successful, Natasha and her friend Jason met the Readers at the Grand Canyon Hotel's very elegant Spenser's lounge for some relaxation and gossip. It was discovered that Natasha had been assigned to engine service and on the board for student engineer on Monday's trip out and back to the Grand Canyon.

The Readers rose early and got tickets to ride on Natasha's first 15-car train. Natasha arranged for upgraded tickets and the Readers got to ride to the Canyon in the lovely Bucky O'Neill car and back in the luxury of the Chief. What wonderful service! It was a beautiful day and after some souvenir shopping the Readers walked the Canyon rim and explored this amazing geologic wonder. Natasha did an outstanding job and provided a great ride for this packed holiday weekend train. A dinner at the hotel restaurant, Max and Thelma's with Natasha and her friends, Eric and Donya rounded off a perfect day.

Stay tuned for more on-the-road updates from Phil and Karell!

#2 Update

2008-02-17T06:25:00.001-08:00

Some of you may remember that Vulcan No. 2 was withdrawn from service in November and last month brought to the shop of Hercules Power Equipment in Los Angeles. Since then, the boiler has been thoroughly inspected, ultrasonically tested, and assessed for repairs. It is apparent now that the scope of the needed work is considerably more than expected, and management is exploring options of repairing/replacing the vessel. In any event, one can't argue that this 80+ year old quarry boiler -- still with its original, riveted firebox -- hasn't done its job well.

HPEI is one of few ASME "S" stamp-holding facilities in California capable of manufacturing new locomotive boilers. In recent years, they manufactured the current boiler for Disneyland Railroad No. 5 "Ward Kimball."

Photo thanks to Dave Laban, HPEI

Coach Update

2008-02-16T09:52:00.000-08:00

Hi All,
Was over at Hillcrest yesterday. Here are some pics of the Retlaw coach. Works is progressing nicely. Interior is nearly done. A coat of varnish was sprayed inside with more to come. The outside paint is near perfection! The guys doing the work will find a flaw, sand it down, fill it in and then repaint. The coach looks like it came out of the studios before loading on a truck to Disneyland.

Dave is having a difficult time finding a missing piece of the Crown Bus window channel. He did find replacement springs for the catches. I will be giving him some leads on Crowns in junkyards.

Jeff

A New Brand

2008-02-13T07:28:00.001-08:00

It's that time of year again -- when the newer bovine residents of Rancho Santa Margarita are vaccinated, branded and ear-tagged, and "converted" (that's a more stomach-pleasing, railroady way of saying it, eh?) into steer. While the process sounds graphic, it is done as humanely as possible. The newly made steers are not traumatized that much by this experience, and life for them goes on. On this day, 142 calves were handled.

Enjoy these pictures from what the has always been (and still is) truly about...

Handling the calves with reata, just as it's been done for the past 150+ years

A Reader Cowboy Hibachi doing what it does best...

2008-02-11T18:59:00.001-08:00

2008-02-11T14:16:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we ran the #3 for Luke Rossi's 7th birthday. The day went well and everyone had a good time. The activities also included a hot dog BBQ, a pinata, horse feeding, Model T truck rides, and planting apple trees. The crew included Brad, Jim, Harry, Dennis, Karl, Patti and myself.

-Phil

We're On Google Earth!

2008-02-02T11:47:00.000-08:00

The other day, my computer science professor introduced a unit using Google Earth (for those who aren't familiar, a popular satellite imaging/mapping wiki-program which can be downloaded here.) She pointed out how certain attractions and landmarks had user-added photos and details, and encouraged us to look around. To my surprise, not only was there a listing for both the Santa Margarita Ranch and Pacific Coast Railroad, but also a series of user-added photos taken during the 2006 and 2007 Round-Ups. And to my even greater surprise, there was a a great one of our "beloved" Thumper with yours truly boiling water!

The photos by user "Chomper" can be viewed even without Google earth via Panoramio. Check them out!

-EK

Meet the New Vulcan No. 2!

2008-01-26T21:33:00.001-08:00

...we wish. Just another experiment for now, but who knows?

Ferrorancheros Que Trabajan En Otros Trenes

2008-01-25T21:47:00.000-08:00

Since there's no other news, here are a few fun, awkward and hopefully entertaining pictures captured of some of our resident "boomers" at other railroad involvements.

Jim and Art Laidlaw on the Santa Maria Valley Railroad

A mustache-sporting Phil Reader in 1986.

Conductor Karl and SMV passengers on observation deck of the "La Condesa."

Jeff with his latest (and since sold) creation.

Ed on the standard gauge taking a turn on the other side of the cab.

Dennis runs his "Sweet Creek" at Bitter Creek.

A much younger Jarret in the fireman's seat of the "Dagny."

Happy Birthday, Grumps...ya old geezer!

2008-01-21T22:12:00.000-08:00

Jeff "Grumps" Badger is now one year closer to eligibility for receiving senior citizen 's discounts. Please join us in wishing him well on his big day, and in devouring this scrumptious, specially-prepared tofutti cake...

To retain at least some decency, we will refrain from disclosing the Badger's exact age ...but will say that if there were a candle every year he's been alive, we speculate there'd be enough to set the entire blog on fire.

I'm not familiar enough with the Chinese calendar to know if there's a "Year of the Badger," but here's to a happy and healthy one!

To a fine engineer, mechanic and "Iron Horse Chef"...happy birthday, sir! (And this is what you get for using your legit D.O.B. to register for that certain web messageboard that announces it on the homepage!)

Loading the Linn

2008-01-20T17:38:00.001-08:00

En route to Hercules Power Equipment Company. Boiler work will be done in HP&E's Los Angeles shop under the supervision of Dave Laban and Paul Boschan of Boschan Boiler & Restorations.

Vulcanic Eruption!

2008-01-17T18:19:00.000-08:00

Last weekend Karl, Dennis, Patti, Karell and Phil worked on the old P.C. Box car #1516. They re-hung the door and got the old tin roof back in place. The next step is to cover the tin roof with a plywood and rolled roofing. It was also discovered that the door we rehung is the original! The old F&CC is still just visible.

"Down, boy!" (The roof, not the pug. See last
week's pic if the lame joke was over your head.)

Meanwhile, Jim and Phil finished stripping the Vulcan. The front end is gutted and all the jewelry has been removed. It is scheduled to be loaded on Dwight Peterson's truck on Sunday and, Monday morning, will be headed for Boschan Boiler. The tender is separated and Phil and Karl would like to have it painted and lettered, in the old PCRy Railroad Roman style, when it returns. We shall see...

Where's Mike Rowe?

Contributed by Phil Reader

Happy Trails, Aaron!

2008-01-16T11:09:00.001-08:00

After 8 years, ranch manager/career vaquero Aaron Lazanoff will be leaving Santa Margarita to accept a new position at Cal Poly. During his tenure at the Ranch, Aaron has made great strides in preserving our fragile environs, reintroducing native grasses to the landscape and serving as a true steward of the land. Beyond his job description, he has also been a helping hand and true friend to the P.C.R.R., sharing equipment and facilities at Ranch Headquarters and keeping a watchful eye over the equipment. Click here for a bio on Aaron, or here to read a piece from the Lompoc Record.

We wish Aaron and his family the best of luck!

Photoshop Phun

2008-01-13T13:53:00.001-08:00

So we all know the 'ol Harpur needs a facelift. Here's a few ideas being thrown around, and expect more to come in the future (this is just the beginning!):

With Radley-Hunter stack and imitation Russian Iron jacket

"It's not easy being green!"

A simple but elegant turn-of-the-century look...

And last but not least, the current specimen (blech!):

Comments and ideas welcome (and encouraged!)

Another Railroad Breakfast

2008-01-06T19:21:00.000-08:00

We railroaders all love ourselves a hearty breakfast, and we hope fellow blogger/chef Steve Karoly of the El Dorado Western won't mind us sharing this link about the mouth-watering cuisine he cooked up for his volunteer brethren: http://roundthechuckbox.blogspot.com/2007/12/cold-breakfast.html

To visit the El Dorado Western Railway blog, click here.

Abysmal Weather Update

2008-01-06T11:22:00.000-08:00

We weathered the storm pretty good. About 4"of rain fell in a 24 hour period, but the real threat though was the high winds. Fortunately other than blowing over several port-a-potties, the only real damage was done to the roof of the old Pacific Coast box car # 1516. It is believed that this car was originally built by American Car & Foundry for the Florence & Cripple Creek. It later served the Nevada-California-Oregon Railway before the PCRy acquired it in the 1920's.

The #1516 is not in that great of shape, having been retired and converted into a shed in the 1940's it had been allowed to deteriorate. The current plan now is put together a volunteer week end to rebuild the roof and stabilize what is left of this car. Stay tuned for more.

Trains To Run For SLO Intl. Film Festival

2007-12-27T18:35:00.001-08:00

Ah, the smell of synergy in Santa Margarita!

On March 7th, we will be partnering with the San Luis Obispo Intl. Film Festival to provide steam train rides in conjunction with the evening encore of Emperor of the North. A favorite among railroad enthusiasts, this 1973 hobo vs. trainman action/drama, starring Lee Marvin and Ernest Borgnine, was filmed on the now-abandoned Oregon Pacific & Eastern Railroad and features its well-traveled Mikado #19 (now on the Yreka Western).*

Stay tuned for more details!

*Your friendly (out-of-the-)neighborhood blog editor, a self-professed movie geek and quotes expert, has embarrassingly never seen the aforementioned film and shall therefore not be held responsible for any inaccuracies in his cursory plot summary obtained/reworded from IMDB.com. (how could we ever live without it? ^_^)

Eine Kleine Nachtdampf

2007-12-18T21:23:00.001-08:00

A little night steam and and a little partying -- what a way to start the week!

For the past several days, Jim and Phil worked painstakingly to decorate Porter #3 and train for the Rossi Enterprises Christmas party, which was scheduled to take place on the evening of Tuesday the 18th. Unfortunately, the big event was scrubbed on account of it raining cats and dogs (not pugs) clear across the Central Coast.

On Friday, though, we warmed it up and decided to do some switching. Meanwhile, commissary dept. MCs Karell and Patti were hard at work planning a bittersweet surprise party -- both for the holidays and a going away for Ed, who will be leaving us to attend school back east. Ed, who was called away from his BBQ project to take to his firing post, was distracted keeping #3 hot while the tables/chairs, cake, and lasagna which had been cooking at Kathy's house were smuggled into the tractor shop. Soon enough, the usual suspects turned up, including Jeff and Debbie (yes, she exists!) Badger. Needless to say, "Oil Can" was quite surprised, and as usual, happy to be fed. (He even ate the cake!) After the feast, we digested over the lighthearted humiliation of un-stuffing our personalized "roast stockings," hand picked by our two not-so-Secret Santas. Then it was back to ol' "Thumper" for some night "test runs" along the loop, with Ed and Phil taking the first run followed by Jarret and Jeff. It was a sight (and sound) to be seen, with a red glow out the stack and Jim's SP 6-chime echoing eerily in the brisk Margarita night. As Phil said, "With a little imagination, you're back on the commute...c.1955.

Then it was back to the nice, toasty tractor shop to chow down a scrumptious custard-filled cake emblazoned with what appeared to be the likeness of our very own FrankenPorter! (Ed: "No way! Is that one of those photo transfer cakes?!)

A spatula for the Iron Horse Chef! (Despite what it looks like, no spousal abuse is being committed in this photo)

Aww, mannn! Bubblegum and duct tape?!

Cookie Monster and Cookie Cutters for a Cookie Conductor!

The only Shay to keep Phil busy for the moment...

A Visit to Christmas Past

2007-12-10T10:26:00.000-08:00

It's been a busy and successful week at the Santa Margarita Ranch. This weekend saw the first and potentially annual "Visit to Christmas Past," a fundraiser for a local food bank which was centered around a craft show/holiday boutique held in the Asistencia. Perhaps the best attended public event in recent ranch history, it was also the P.C.R.R's second operation for the general public (the first being the 2005 pumpkin trains). The general reception and turnout suggested a positive outlook for the railroad's potential viability as a commercial tourist operation.

The 2nd doubleheader

Some of the crowds that showed up to ride

Preparations -- and contingency plans -- began well in advance. With a Christmas-y red, high-drivered American on the roster, the office had requested Harpur #1, if possible, be used for the event. Unfortunately, years of running circles in an amusement park have taken its toll on this (actually not-so-) old hoss's running gear, and it was decided to take her out of service last May after some issues developed with the no. 2 fireman's side driving box. For those who attended this year's Round Up, this is why, this is why the locomotive was not in service during the second day of the event. Despite valiant efforts to repair it, the "ambulatory surgery" by CMO Reader and Asst. CMO Badger was unsuccessful, and the locomotive was pulled back out of service after double-headed test runs on Friday. This locomotive is in line for a complete running gear overhaul before returning to regular service, which given the current resources at the ranch cannot be accomplished at this time.

Public runs commenced in the absence of the CMO on an blustery, overcast Saturday morning, with Jim and Karl on the engine, Jeff and Ed on mechanical, Karell stoking the stove, and Paul, Patti, Brad, and Dennis on the train. The electrical work was completed on #3, which made for a neat sight as the "FrankenPorter" (credit goes to Karl on that one!), headlight blaring through the fog, charged and echoed up the grade. Special guests in the cab included Rob Himoto, President of the Santa Maria Valley Railroad, and our old friend Art Laidlaw, who now resides in the Las Vegas area and was escaped for the weekend. Other than some brief down time to tend to deal with some minor mechanical issues, the train ran continuously all day.

♫ She'll be comin' round the mountain... ♫

The main event in the Asistencia

The Badger-Kelley hostling team returned around 7AM on a beautiful Sunday morning in anticipation of an even better turnout. After lighting off, these Iron Horse Chefs® made no haste in cooking up a piping hot oil pan-fried, peephole-roasted backhead breakfast, complete with trycock coffee (hey, it never killed anybody!) The cab was stocked with salt, pepper and A1 for lunchtime, along with some Toll House cookie dough commandeered from Karell's train crew commissary table. Cab riders seemed to get an exceptional kick out of seeing and smelling the backhead smorgasboard. A phenomenal attendance made for 20 runs, with our same trusty train crew herding passengers while Jeff, Ed, Jim, Karl and Phil cycled through on the locomotive.

On the last public run of the day, we paced an experimental plane (the pilot of which having surely waited for us, or just really good timing!) as it took off from "Santa Margarita International." Student engineer Dennis "Cookie Conductor" Thurman then took to the throttle for a training run and some switching in the yard, then spotted the train at the granary for the evening.

In all, a great event that will hopefully be even better next year!

Updates/other randomness

2007-12-02T18:06:00.001-08:00

On Friday, Phil and Karell headed over to Reedley to deliver the missing door for Coach 105. At some point during its 2+ decades spent sitting in the Disneyland backlot, a cast member allegedly absconded with one of the originals as a souvenir, so a new one had to be manufactured. The woodshop in Watsonville did a fine job at replicating it and even the most discriminating purists shouldn't be able to tell the difference.

Below are some progress pictures from Hillcrest:

Meanwhile, back at the ranch (quite literally!), preparations have been underway for the upcoming "Journey to Christmas Past" event taking place this weekend. Trains will be running continuously from 10AM-4PM, with one three-car section. Jeff Badger will be coming down this week to assist Phil in hopefully getting the Harpur back in service for at least one of the two days. Phil has put some serious elbow grease into cleaning the old girl up. Porter #3 got a boiler wash and good tube punch/firebox/front end cleaning and, short of putting the plugs back in and filling 'er up, is ready to go as first out.

"See you in 2008!" -Roger (out of service)

Could it be? A rare, sneaked photograph of the illustrious "Masked Firebox Bandito of Santa Margarita!" (who thought the photog was snapping the pugs) Previous offenses include reckless backhead cooking, resulting in destruction of oil can/tallow pot, and consuming excessive amounts of tri-tip at crew BBQs...

Luxurious cowboy transport (It's a Moo-cedes!)

11/28/07

2007-11-28T19:04:00.001-08:00

Sunset at Estrada Gardens

Pugs on a Porter...again?!

Phil gets "Pugged!"

The Evil Porter Eats Ed!

They're hood lamps from a Chevy pickup.
(they were available and they work!)

A Ride in the Lilly Belle

2007-11-27T18:38:00.000-08:00

On our respective trips this past month, both the Readers and I have had the privilege of taking the grand circle tour" aboard the Disneyland Railroad's lavish Presidential car, the Lilly Belle. While it has served for the past three decades as the park's V.I.P. car, this opulent piece of rolling stock began life in 1955 as a yellow observation car numbered 106, the "Grand Canyon" -- the tail end of the Retlaw 1 consist.

Inspired by the elegant private cars of the 19th century and having no doubt seen the "Durango" and "Edna" at Knotts Berry Farm (12/12-scale ex-Rio Grande Southern parlor and business cars, respectively), Walt Disney had long envisioned a parlor car for Disneyland which would be reserved for the use of celebrities, heads of state and other dignitaries as they visited the park. Although the dream would not reach fruition in Disney's lifetime, it was not forgotten. In 1974, then-shop manager Ken Kohler was successful into convincing the powers-that-be into returning the car to the rails as a swank Presidential car as part of the park's bicentennial celebrations. Under the guidance of Retlaw Enterprises (Walt's personal company, which still owned and operated the railroad at that time) and Lillian Bounds Disney, Walt's widow and the car's namesake, the canary yellow-and-green "Grand Canyon" received a meticulous, two-year-long makeover into the beautiful, burgundy "Belle." The interior decor, personally chosen by Mrs. Disney, included plush velvet seats, marble tables, stained glass clerestory skylights, and an array of appropriate curios, including photos of Disney's backyard Carolwood Pacific Railroad and even its lilliputian caboose (since removed).

Brittany, our friendly and very
knowledgeable conductor, models
Walt's smoking jacket, which
hangs in the car as it makes its
daily rounds.

In 2002, the pride and joy of the Disneyland Railroad's rolling stock was sidelined after becoming a termite All-U-Can Eat buffet, leaving many to speculate if it would ever return. But thanks to the diligence of former Disneyland Resort President Matt Ouimet and the talents of restorer Tim Lagaly and his crew, the "Lilly Belle" was completely rebuilt and returned to the rails in time for the park's 50th anniversary. Soon, with the combine sitting almost restored and our four coaches in the process of being restored, the entire "Retlaw One" set will once again be riding the rails in all their glory -- a tribute to the man who dreamed them, the studio craftsmen that built them, and the mouse that started it all.

Our sincere thanks to the D.L.R.R. crew for their hospitality and allowing us to experience the final Retlaw car in service at Disneyland!

-Ed Kelley

First Steam in the Yard

2007-11-26T11:16:00.000-08:00

Spotted on Track 2!

Musical Tracks
Harry and Dennis

Patti, Dennis, Harry, Brad, and "Melodia."

Crew Bulletin

2007-11-24T22:40:00.000-08:00

P.C.R.R. crew members (past and present) -
To ease some apparent communication issues, I've decided to compile a complete crew phone/e-mail list. This will hopefully make it easier for Brad or Karell to prank call you, solicit donations, peddle you Amway products or, god forbid, summon your services for upcoming events.

To be included, submit your e-mail addy, land line, cell number, credit card number, SSN, wife's date of birth, WaMu pin, criminal record, RBC count, and whatever other embarrassing/irrelevant you don't want us to know to pcrailroad@gmail.com. When finished, I will make copies available in the granary so you can send Tony Soprano to whack the marked up fireman if you feel like boiling water that day.

Thanks!

-Edbert
Evil [de facto] HR Director
(and obviously not serious for 90% of this blogging...we hope)

A Visit to Christmas Past

2007-11-16T20:00:00.000-08:00

On the weekend of Dec. 8-9, the Pacific Coast Railroad will be running rare public operations as part of History's Harvest's "A Visit to Christmas Past," a holiday festival being held at the Santa Margarita Ranch. The primary motive power will be Porter #3, with a possible appearance by Harpur #1.

Other festivities include live music and caroling, wine tasting, a Dutch Oven cooking demo, and more. Admission is free, and all are welcome!

11/16/07

2007-11-16T19:38:00.000-08:00

The new mill!

Lady and the Tramp?

Switching the Yard

2007-11-10T20:01:00.000-08:00

Saturday, Nov. 10th marked the first official movement into the new yard. In the early afternoon, Plymouth 584 and caboose 303 were guided onto track 5 (the future RIP, as tracks 1-4 will lead car into the car barns), with brakeman Thurman doing the honors. Before heading back up to the granary, the caboose hop was spotted up against the wheel stops for a photo op to document the occasion. The move was overseen by CMO Reader, who found no problems.

Dennis aligns the mainline switch

Shoving back...

On the spot!

While the "Cuscatlan" remains yet to be restored, there
was other varnish to be seen at the Santa Margarita Ranch...

Pugs do the darndest things...

Vulcan #2 has been withdrawn from service
until further notice. Porter #3 is now first out.

A Fall Pictorial

2007-11-05T23:54:00.001-08:00

Wheel stops in the now completed (!) yard

Ze flopovers

Tom Shreve and Kent Jefferys (Roaring Camp & Big Trees)
assisting Phil Reader, who has gone MIA in the No. 2's firebox.

Work Train

"Thumper" Task Force

A Phantom-tastic Party!

2007-11-03T20:14:00.001-07:00

On Tuesday evening, our trusty commissary crew (euphemistic shorthand for the Pacific Coast Railroad Supportive Wives/Significant Others Club) treated us all to a ghoulishly fun Halloween bash. While Phil and Dennis accomplished a switching move, and I worked on a welding project, Karell (in spite of feeling under the weather) was fervently cleaning up and decorating the musty granary/corrugated crew lair, garnishing it with orange lights, a "Daylight-colored" spider, and the cliche printed party plates. Oh, and of course the "Vulcan Vampire" dropped off by Rob.

In P.C.R.R. tradition, the evening included a scrumptious BBQ feast prepared on the Phil Reader "Cowboy Hibachi." The entree was Phil's slow-marinated teriyaki marinated tri-tip, served with Karell's homemade pumpkin bisque soup. Other offerings included fried chicken supplied by Patti and Italian romaine and raddichio blend by Fresh Express (hey, we can't have everything gourmet!) Of course, no crew feast is complete without one of Mary's incredible dessert offerings, and this time we were treated to "black and white cupcakes;" a hollow chocolate cupcake with a chocolate chip cheesecake filling.

But wait! Before being fed, we all had to complete Karell's stragetically-planned scavenger hunt. The heated competition, accomplished by four assigned teams, (the "Young Guns," the "Old Heads," "the Harlows," and "Patti and Dennis"), involved in an intense 45 minutes violating locomotives, plush spiders, and in search of the next clue -- the final being "go get dinner." So for those of you at home jealous of our eatin's, remember...we have to work for our grub! The results; first place - P. LaRose, Thurman, second place - Reader, Hovanitz ("The Old Heads"), third place (tied) - J. LaRose - Kelley (the "Young Guns"), Harlow-Harlow.

After stuffing our faces silly, we then proceeded to carve obscene pumpkins with power tools and take a night ride with the Plymouth and caboose 303.

Taking a playful pastime hardcore...

Dennis Thurman, M.D. -- Specialist in
Pumpkin Lobotomy and Rhinoplasty

Patti, Harry, Mary on Ed and the tail of the "creepy caboose hop."

Meet the "Gandy Dancers"

2007-10-26T23:14:00.001-07:00

Sharp & Fellows is perhaps the oldest and most experienced railroad contractor in the United States. Founded in 1877, the company has built or rebuilt countless industrial spurs, Class 1 mainlines, and just about everything in between. During its heyday, the company even owned its own steam locomotive -- a 2-6-2 numbered 7 -- which survives today at Los Angeles' Travel Town Museum.

In 2002/3, Rob Rossi, who had been storing his recently-purchased equipment in the Asistencia, contracted with Sharp & Fellows to construct our initial two-mile railroad. So in essence, the guys working on it now are the guys that built it. And it is a pleasure to once again have them workin' on our railroad!

♫ "[They've] been working on the rail-road..." ♫

Tamper and ballast car

The hard-working crew: (left to right) Jose Torres, Manuel Suarez, Gabriel Pineda (foreman), Adalberto Gutierrez, and Leon Rodarte.

Looking good!

Link: Sharp & Fellows, Inc.

Gandy Dancing Progress

2007-10-24T19:31:00.001-07:00

All 5 yard tracks are down and tamped. Once the final touches are complete, the crew will begin a "tune-up" of the mainline.

The Last Train to Los Olivos

2007-10-18T21:31:00.000-07:00

Here's a chance to see an extraordinary short 16mm film converted onto a DVD showing an original Pacific Coast train coming across "High Trestle" located about 2 miles outside of Los Olivos, and arriving at Los Olivos, unloading the mail, turning the engine, and getting ready for the trip to SLO. Remarkable footage taken in 1934!

In addition, Curt Cragg and Ken Kelley will be giving presentations about the PCRy, Mattei's Tavern, & Los Olivos. After which, a 1926 Buster Keaton movie, "The General" will be shown.

(Los Olivos was the southern terminus of the original Pacific Coast Railway, which operated in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties until the early 1940s.)

-Jamie Foster

Pacific Coast Goes to Hillcrest

2007-10-14T13:46:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, a whole gang of us -- Brad, Jarret, Rob, Phil, Karell, and I -- had the pleasure of attending Reedley Rail Days, the annual event put on by our good friends at the Hillcrest Shops. This weekend-long extravaganza is hosted at Sean and Melissa Bautista's Hillcrest Christmas Tree Farm in Reedley (near Fresno), which is the home of the flourishing company and 15" gauge Hillcrest & Wahtoke Railroad. It was quite a show with five 15" gauge locomotives under steam, not to mention the "Marie E." and Craig Ludwick's donkey boiler/Worthington pump setup. There was much to see and do, machine tools to envy, and work to admire. Current projects include a 15" gauge diesel switcher, a 3' , hand-riveted 10'+ long bridge members, and the beginnings of six 5" scale Moguls...not to mention our very own Retlaw coach #105. It was neat to get to see it up on blocks and in the beginning stages of restoration. The body has been partially stripped of paint (two or three layers) and, in some places, is down to bare wood, revealing its seemingly excellent condition and even builder's pencil marks made by Disney studio craftsmen. After a brief crew huddle, a spur-of-the-moment decision was made to restore it with the original "Grande Gold" color, which was painted over sometime in the '60s with the lighter canary yellow. With much anticipation, we look forward to seeing what "mad skills" this talented crew will "lay down" next!
Thanks to the entire Hillcrest gang for their hospitality, camaraderie, and pulling off another first-class event. (Oh, and a happy birthday shout-out to "the Fossils!")

-Ed Kelley

John Lasseter running the "Marie E."

Al DiPaolo with crew from the California State Railroad Museum (and PLA friends) with the "Sonoma."

Ellen Thomsen and the Redwood Valley 11 visiting from Berkeley.

Guest engineer Dave Loyola (Niles Canyon Railway), Dave Kope, Ken Kukuk, and Bill Summerland do the honors with the GSP&P doubleheader.

Gee, I wonder where this thing came from...

Brad checks out John Lasseter's Brookville

October Updates

2007-10-06T22:00:00.001-07:00

After being briefly summoned back to Disneyland, the track crew has returned, and has wasted no time completing the yard on (if not a little ahead of) schedule. Tracks 1-4 are now complete and ballasted, leaving Track 5 as the final conquest. For the better part of this week, three front-end loaders were busy taking out part of the hillside to enable its construction. Assisting the fast-working crew is Sharp & Fellows' narrow-gauge tamper and ballast car. Such modern maintenance-of-way equipment is certainly not your everyday sight on the narrow gauge! Due to its availability from the contractor, the entire yard has been spiked with 90-lb. rail out of Utah. As the pictures prove, there has been some serious "gandy dancing" afoot here. The contractor expects to complete the project sometime next week, and construction on the two shop buildings is expected to commence this summer.

The new mainline switch is finally in service, and we can once again run the full loop. As the beefy, self-guiding frogs were not going to be compatible with the Disney coaches' miniature wheel profiles, it was necessary to have guards put in before attempting to run them through. On Saturday around 3PM, the first revenue train -- a wedding charter -- creeped on through. A Friday test run with Porter No. 3 (which has blind center drivers) went a little less smoothly, after some grinding should work fine. Friday's shakedowns were also a chance to try the new engine brakes out on the road, which can (quite literally) stop Thumper dead in her tracks. But especially with those composite brake shoes, we don't wanna give 'er flat spots or anything -- she's thumped enough already!

The official P.C.R.R. crew-feeding apparatus, w/its proud
builder demonstrating the newest feature.

Oh, and to make your mouthes water a little, I should mention we were treated to an amazing dutch oven BBQ on Saturday put on by our trusty commissary crew. Once again, Mary's cookies (s'mores bars this time) stole the show. These savory morsels are so addicting they should be outlawed. Add some beef stew, chicken apple sausage, and fresh garlic bread into the mix for another tasty day of railroading.

Lastly, I thought I'd bring attention to a unique and often forgotten piece of P.C.R.R. rolling stock -- the parlor car "Senator Murphy." This beautiful car, acquired from the Sundown & Southern in Fort Lupton, CO, was built by the International Railways of Central America as the business car "Cuscatlan." It will eventually be restored and made available for charters on the extended railroad.

A Busy Week

2007-09-23T21:59:00.001-07:00

Meet our newest mascot, Saydee!

It's been a busy and productive week on the Pacific Coast Railroad!

"Thumper" is far from the A-list, but this week she finally got her brake. [laugh at lame pun here] On Thursday, Phil pinned the pillow blocks back up and put the newly-keyed cross shaft in place. Then on Friday, we tightened everything up and dragged 'er around with the Plymouth to test out the finished product. Great success! Even with the tender brakes cut out, Phil could get her to do one heck of a"Whoooa horse!" She's still no black beauty, but at least she has good brakes. From of a tickle on one set of drivers, to a snakebite on two, it was one very welcome and neccessary improvement.
For the weekend, the order board had two definite (and a third possible) runs in store for us. This quickly changed to three on Saturday and one on Sunday. On Saturday, we began with 2 runs for a local Cub Scout troop and the Atascadero High School reunion held at Estrada Gardens. We then took a break until around 4:30, when we backed down to Vineyard Station for a wedding reception. For a surprise to the bridegroom, the train was a definite hit, and we lit up the gauge lights for a second night run! The crew for most of the day was Brad as conductor, Patti as car attendant, Jim running, and Phil firing, with Dennis later taking over as conductor and myself as fireman. Jarret was also there and going between jobs. Then on Sunday, we made another 2-3 runs which were included in a train ride/BBQ package which Rob Rossi had donated to a charity auction. The same gang turned out from Saturday, plus Harry and Karl. Jim and the Vulcan got some good morning camera time with visitors from the Carolwood Pacific Historical Society, who stuck around and paced some of the afternoon runs. CPHS members will be having their own event at the Ranch in November.

Now if Phil could only make a firedoor rotisserie...

As a tasty end to the busy weekend, we were all treated to a scrumptious impromptu BBQ put on by Patti, Mary, and Karell, with the help of one of the famous Phil Reader firepit grills. Patti's offer to host it at her place quickly turned to running home to grab some tri-tip - which turned to getting beans and even more tri-tip to BBQ at the Ranch - which brought Harry to call and invite Mary, who finished off the smorgasboard with turkey burgers, salad, bread, and the most amazing chunky oatmeal raisin cookies I've ever tasted. (Whew! You still with me?) Seriously, these cookies were out of this world. Thanks, guys!

A well-fed crew!

In all, a good weekend of railroading...with a very tasty ending!

-Ed Kelley

Progress Report: 9/15/07

2007-09-15T20:47:00.001-07:00

Overview of yard grade/progress

Switches: 3 down, 2 to go!

Brake cylinder mounted on the 3, with arm/cross shaft set
in place. For more info on the #3 brake system re-working
project, see the August 18th entry.

#3 brake rigging: The way it was (2/05)

SLORRM's Kiso #7 after a fresh coat of paint

Shadow Puppet

Pugs on a Porter!

They've been working on the...

2007-09-08T00:19:00.000-07:00

Need we say more? ;-D

The Swan: P.C.R.R. Edition

2007-08-18T00:03:00.001-07:00

Attention has once again turned to the No. 3, our poor little white elephant. She bailed us out when the 1 went out of service, and after having some sense knocked into her by an "Iron Bar" (and, of course, our trusty CMO), the 3 is proving to be a good engine for our railroad.

Those of you who have been following our operation are probably well aware of the 3's reputation. When it arrived on the property, it "could barely pull its own shadow," not the 5-car photo freights it did last May. Among Phil's biggest gripes was the tender, the standard Crown variety that sat on stock Crown trucks several inches below the cab deck. The narrow gangway was open to the rail on both sides, a serious safety issue. Phil brought the tender level by switching out the Crown trucks for a pair of Denver & Rio Grande arch bars, also greatly improving the locomotive's appearance.

As the No. 3 operates only a handful of times each year, projects are typically prioritized to the Nos. 2 and 1, the mainstays of operation. High on Phil's priority list, however, was to set up the 3's tender with brakes, something it has never had its 40+ years as a tender engine (It spent the previous 66 as an 0-6-2T.)

Phil had spent the past several weeks on the project and, with assistance from Jeff Badger, it is now complete, and the 3's tender now has brakes. Jeff, who lives in the Santa Cruz area, was in town for Karl's big narrow gauge meet and had his new 3" scale live steamer in tow. A cute little 2-4-2 with a cool logging look to it.

Not quite ready for a "brake," Phil then turned his attention to reworking the locomotive's brake system. As the #3 was built for plantation service, it probably didn't receive air brakes until it's c.1964 rebuild by Crown Metal Products, operating with steam jam through the course of its working career. The existing brake system on the locomotive was very poorly thought out and hastily thrown together during one of the #3's two rebuilds, not a surprising discovery on our resident shopless "shop queen!" As it was, the cylinder was mounted forward on and above the frame, with the rigging taking up space between the main frame and the boiler. The arms hung downwards, holding the shoes almost dead center on the drivers. This not only looked goofy, but was incredibly unreliable, making only barely satisfactory contact on two drivers. After enough problems, Phil decided it was time to flip everything over and design a more normal arrangement, such as exemplified on SLORRM's "Dagny" a few hundred feet away. Speaking of the devil, Brad LaRose has recently been sprucing up this little Baldwin - a veteran of Japan's Kiso Forest Railway - which is being stored on the ranch until a permanent home is built for it in San Luis Obispo.

"Grumps" Badger at work

Last Friday, with the arms and cross beams in their arrangement, Phil and I took measurements for a new brake rod. Unfortunately, the closest spare we had, with the turnbuckle expanded, was just an inch or two short, so a new one would have to be made using the old ends. A quick run to McCarthy Steel brought the necessary materials to finish the project. The new brake beam was cut from a 7' piece of 1" round stock, which, with 7/8 threads, worked just perfect. A contortionist move, bent cotter pin, and a few wiggles found a nice trial fit. What better place to hide from the scorching Santa Margarita sun than under a narrow-gauge steam locomotive? (sure, the accommodations are little tighter and gravel-y than on the standard gauge, but a shop is forthcoming soon enough!)

New whistle linkage!

As of this weekend, the pillow blocks and cross shaft are in place. The project will continue with fabrication of remaining parts and placement of the cylinder, followed by some test runs. Dave Swift, the project supervisor from Sharp & Fellows, our track contractor, is also back this week to complete the final survey and grade for the new yard/outer loop.

-Ed Kelley

Hollywood Magic at the Ranch: Fun Facts About Our "Star" Lokie

2007-07-23T16:14:00.000-07:00

Folks always ask me about our #2 - "Did it really come from the Denver & Rio Grande?" The answer is, of course, no. Although faded, the "Roger Linn" still carries her Hollywood make-up from Dr. Quinn (which was set in 1880s Colorado Springs) and still has the fake D&RG builder's plates. An interesting thing about these plates is that they are cast bronze and well made. Someday it would be nice to have true Vulcan builder's plates made for her.

When the #2 first arrived at the ranch it still had a camera mount screwed to the fireman's side of the cab. It also had a beat-up, non-functioning old air gauge mounted in the cab and a pet cock on the blower line just to let steam escape for filming. It also still had on it the fake wood-burning stack and some fire wood mounted on a pallet sitting on the tender.

-Phil Reader

Dr. Quinn set photos courtesy Don Bitz

3rd Annual Santa Margarita Reata Roping & Stock Horse Contest

2007-07-16T14:39:00.001-07:00

Sure, the Santa Margarita Ranch may be more recently known for it's herd of iron "stock," but it is still very much the working cattle ranch it was 150+ years ago. While not directly pertaining to the railroad, the latest addition to our links section gives insight into an upcoming "Round Up" of another sort...

Railroad Lends A Hand

2007-07-15T10:47:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, July 14^th the Pacific Coast Railroad was part of the festivities at a fundraiser for Jack’s Helping Hand of San Luis Obispo. The Santa Margarita Ranch was packed with 600 guests for dinner, dancing and an awesome live auction. Bonnie Marie’s catered the dinner and ranch cowboys Aaron and Jeff led the SLO Cattlemen in barbecuing some melt-in-your-mouth prime rib.

The train crew was busy all day and had a great time, even in 100-degree heat. Days before, COO Jim McEntire was polishing brass on the #2 "Roger Linn. She gleamed like a little jewel in the bright summer sun. Volunteers Harry, Dennis and Jamie cleaned up the Disney cars to make them ready for passengers. Fire spotting duties were delegated to Bill Rust with his speeder and Ted and Mark Van Klaveren. Jim ran and Karl fired, with Jamie, Dennis and Brad conducting the entire operation about as smooth and flawless as could be.

Jack’s Helping Hand is a non-profit dedicated to helping youth with special needs. Owen Beck, son of Steve Beck, who has done most of the renovation and construction on ranch and railroad facilities, was a recipient of their generosity when he lost his leg to cancer and needed a prosthetic leg. It was a great day - in total, the successful event raised between $90-100k for a very good cause.

-Karell Reader

Grading Progress

2007-07-08T22:46:00.000-07:00

For shop lead and future site of shop:

-Phil Reader

P.R.O. Speeder Run

2007-06-22T19:36:00.000-07:00

The Pacific Coast Railroad hosted its first (possibly) annual speeder run for the Pacific Railcar Operators, or PRO for short. There were seven cars in total including our own Karl Hovanitz's Franken speeder. The event was very low key and a good time was had by all. It is possible we will host this group again the same time next year. By then, we should have more track to run on. Some pics below.

-Phil Reader

June Updates

2007-06-21T12:43:00.000-07:00

As of this past Tuesday the first rough phase of grading for the extension line and the new engine house lead was started. The next step is to have Dave Swift and crew come back out for the final survey then start building track. Stay tuned, it looks like it is finally happening.

I have also been constructing the parts needed for the brake rigging on the #3 Porter thing. This is a slow process but I am almost ready to install all the parts.

Next Tuesday I will have the state boiler inspector out for annual inspections.

-Phil Reader
C.M.O.

The Second Coach is Off!

2007-06-04T18:34:00.000-07:00

As of this morning at about 8:40AM, Coach #105 was loaded on a truck and left the ranch. It arrived safely at Reedley this afternoon and is now in the good care of the Hillcrest crew.

Also, I have also started to apply brakes to the #3's tender.

-Phil Reader
Chief Mechanical Officer

The 2007 Round-Up

2007-05-14T13:37:00.003-07:00

Photo-Jeff Badger

The third annual Round-Up is best summarized by a cheerful remark made popular by the recent and infamous mockumentary Borat; (said with Kazahki accent) "Great Success!"

And that success was shared by many; from those who made it the most successful fundraiser to date for the San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum to those who broke their backs for weeks prior (quite literally, in the case of our tireless CMO) to pull it off. By the latter, I speak not only of our crew, but another certain band of amiable steam heads who, along with a certain locomotive in their care, were our "special guests" for the weekend.

Okay, enough with the crypticism, but I'm proud to say all were successful in closely guarding the secret until Saturday morning, providing a nice surprise for our guests! Sean Bautista and crew from Hillcrest Shops crew had recently restored the 1901 Porter 0-4-0 "Marie E.," owned by Disney animator Ollie Johnston, for Disney/Pixar's John Lasseter. Built for the Wilkeson Coal & Coke Company of Puyallup, Washington, the former 0-4-0T had been lovingly restored by Johnston - one of the "Nine Old Men" of Disney animation - and run between he and fellow animator Frank Thomas' Julian, CA, vacation homes. With only a few hundred feet of 3' track on their Reedley property, the Hillcrest gang, who had just completed a second round of work on the Marie Estelle, sought a place to stretch the locomotives' legs before their client. P.C.R.R. President Rob Rossi has been open to the idea of visiting equipment at the ranch, and with the added attraction of an authentic Disney engine at the SLORRM fundraiser weekend, the idea, pending the crossing of t's and the dotting of i's, was a go - err, highball!

"Wax on, wax off!" Sean and K.J. pay the
price for Marie's vanity. (Jamie Foster)

Sporting a fresh coat of Imron paint, the diminutive peanut roaster and it's two car train - a four-wheel flat and "bobber" caboose - arrived around 1PM Wednesday, when KSBY-TV (our local NBC affiliate) was also present to shoot a spot for the local news. While the Marie E. saw occasional operation at Reedley and, in 2005, became the first visiting locomotive to run at Disneyland, Sean and company worked relentlessly over the preceding months to complete a second round of work to the trainset in time for the event. The most notable improvements were the rebuild of the "bobber"-style caboose, a formerly four-wheel crummy which now sits atop a pair of new arch Hillcrest-manufactured arch bar trucks, and setting up the consist with an automatic air brake system. This included the locating, rebuilding and placement of a Westinghouse 9-1/2" single air pump and the plumbing of the entire train, which previously operated only with hand brakes. Combined with link and pin couplers, it was very true to the practice of the era it represents! Our thanks to the entire Hillcrest crew - Sean, Dave, Dave, Curtis, John, Kell, K.J., Richard, Bill, Melissa, Kris, Raeanne, and Belle (hopefully I didn't miss anyone!) - and, last but not least, John Lasseter, without whom little Marie might still been sitting in Julian; bored and missing out on all the fun! To quote Operations Manager Jim McEntire, "You guys are truly professionals and deserve to be commended!"

Jim also did a professional job taking over rulebook instruction and testing from Bill Farquhar, whose job on the standard gauge kept him in parts southeast for this year's event. Thumper sends her regards.

Speaking of the devil, another major accomplishment which took place prior to event were noteworthy improvements made to the No. 3; our resident shop queen (or, as we don't have a shop, simply "boat anchor.") Ol' "Thumper" fired notoriously hard and couldn't draft to save her life - or rather that of her distraught fireman! But on Thursday, we were graced by the presence of our good friend Tom Shreve - senior engineer of 35 years at Roaring Camp - who wasted no time jumping right into the project of making whatever improvements he could before the event. After opening up the front end, Tom and Phil, who had been devising the best courses of action but hadn't previously the time to undertake them, came up with an idea. The exhaust nozzle was too low, and the petticoat as it was was too high; plus, rather than the usual arrangement of two branch pipes feeding to each cylinder, a single dry pipe fed into the saddle, inconveniently butting up against the petticoat with the location of a union limiting where the petticoat could be placed.

Phil and Tom decided to try a Shay-style double petticoat and, as it lacked one, fabricate a baffle for the firedoor. With the improvements completed in just a few hours and being shoved into the hole to allow trains 1 and 2 to start making their rounds, we lit 'er off that afternoon with plans to try her with a four-car freight. She still fires hard, but can keep and even make steam - on her own draft - coming up the 3%. An 150% improvement and a milestone in making No. 3 a reliable hoss for our railroad. All she needed was a good beating by an "Iron Bar!"

With all crews qualified, a round of training runs commenced on Friday, though was cut short at 3:55PM upon the appearance of a large boom four carlengths up from the spot! The crane was called in to unload a historic marquee, which rolled in moments later, which Rob Rossi salvaged from a Santa Barbara theater razed that morning. Rob hopes it will someday grade the façade of a new theater he plans to construct in the area, but for now it will remain stored at the Ranch.

Rob Rossi oversees the unloading of his marquee

The hostlers got to work at 6:15 Saturday morning, encouraging our CMO to sleep in 'till 8 and give his back a rest. While waiting to get off the peg, Jeff Badger wasted no time executing his plan to make the Harpur into a mean, lean backhead cooking machine! Our vegan "Iron Horse Chef" set out a spread of soy sausage and hash browns for his breakfast, latter tossing some homemade tamales, Corralitos sausage, and the most infamous P.C.R.R. backhead cuisine - White Castle sliders - onto "The Backhead Grill." (Jeff's wife still doesn't know how her baking pan got scorched, nor is Patti aware where that new roll of aluminum foil went!)

Jeff Badger, The Iron Horse Chef, cooking breakfast on Harpur's backhead (...and below, some payback for a certain song he wrote regarding the last P.C.R.R. backhead cookout!)

Runs on Sat. started around 10AM, with Jarret and Jeff on No. 1, Jim and Karl on No. 2, and the Hillcrest guys and John Lasseter each taking turns on the Marie Estelle. Phil and I were
assigned to keep No. 3 on standby with plans to bring out a photo freight later in the day. By noontime, the three locomotives which had taken water from the new system developed foaming issues, though nothing a little castor oil couldn't solve! (The "castor oil cure" is an old SP remedy for foaming which works in the same manner as a chef pouring olive oil into a pot of pasta. Manure also works, and there is certainly no shortage of that at the Ranch!)

Unfortunately, on Saturday afternoon, Jeff also had to take the No. 1 out of service after discovering about 3/8" lateral motion on one of the driving boxes and finding the shim which was holding the box in place somewhere along the ROW.

No. 2 took on the extra Retlaw cars for the last one or two runs of the day and, on Sunday, it looked like good ol' No. 3 would bail us out once again. Meanwhile, the No. 2 went out for some night runs until almost 10:30 Saturday night.

On Sunday morning, I fetched Jeff's spatula and hanger from the cold No. 1 and transferred it to the new M.L.B.C.M - No. 3. The baffle-type firedoor offered more cooking surface, and the warming tray was a perfect fit for Mrs. Badger's cake pan! (I can attest it does a fine job at searing breakfast burritos, adding a hint of backhead flavor!)

Nos. 2 and 3 held down passenger runs throughout the day with our new operating routine - one-way trips to ensure everyone gets a ride - which resulted from the previous day's learning experience. Getting the 3 out of the hole gave her the chance to really strut her much improved stuff. I daresay that, now that she's not only able to keep steam but also make it, she's almost fun to fire. A 250% improvement from the ugly duckling which, when it arrived, had plastic tubing plumbed to the mechanical lubricator and, as Phil says, could barely pull its own shadow!

Dave Kope, Melissa Bautista and John Bishop take
John Lasseter's Fairmont S-2 for a spin. This speeder
was once owned by Walt Disney. (Belle Kope)

We made our last public run around 4PM Sunday, but the fun wasn't over yet. After waiting all weekend, it was finally time for the improved No. 3 to make another run with the photo freight (the first was done Fri.) And with all the switching going on, Phil and Jeff came up with the idea to try one of the Retlaw coaches (as Phil says, "a match made in heaven") - coincidentally, the one which just returned from Reedley - for a run around the Loop. John Lasseter did the honors on the Marie E. while Rob Rossi jockeyed the throttle on Vulcan No. 2, following closely behind. This was the first time Rob has run one of his engines.

After making some Disney history on the Santa Margarita Ranch, our red-letter weekend, featuring four narrow-gauge steam locomotives hot and running - not to mention two steam tractors, a Donkey, and an 1-1/2" live steamer - finally came to a close. On Monday came the task of re-loading the Marie E. for its trip back to Reedley, which will be followed shortly by another of the Retlaw coaches.

To sum it all up, a grand time was had by all, and we look forward to another successful "Round Up" in '08! Thanks to all who helped make it possible.

-Ed Kelley
Photos by Ed Kelley, Jeff Badger, Dave and Belle Kope, and Jamie Foster

Marie E. and Crew: (left to right) Kell Schmidt, Sean Bautista,
John Lasseter and Dave Derfelt. (Dave Kope)

The tireless Phil Reader shows signs of
needing his own rebuilding! (Dave Kope)

John Lasseter, Rob Rossi, and Sean Bautista. (Dave Kope)

Engineering Day

2007-04-28T19:09:00.000-07:00

Saturday's event was all about engineers of a different sort!

Ed explaining his fireman-ly
duties to two of the students

Organized by Karell Reader, a Cal Poly graduate student, this small but fun event saw a saw both seasoned and next generation mechanical engineers enj oying steam at the Santa Margarita Ranch. A dozen or so students and Lockheed ME's were in attendance and enjoyed a day of train/cab rides and a program by Phil on the tourist railroad industry. The students expressed great interest and seemed to already have an impressive amount of knowledge on steam.

The crew for the day was Phil and Ed on the Vulcan and Brad conducting, with Jim putting a fire in the #3 just in time for the students to get to see it in action hauling a 4-car freight! In all, a fun event, and great to see more "fresh" interest in steam!

Final Update for Car 104 Project

2007-04-25T20:57:00.000-07:00

I thought I would send in one last update for the first car project even though we have shipped it to you already. Thanks for the Hillcrest plugs in your blog. The car was a good project and was fun to work on something with historical significance. We've got alot of notes for the next cars and suggestions that will hopefully streamline the process and hopefully save costs.

Car new porch ceilings are being painted in the left photo. The rest of the roof restoration is complete. The car chassis in the foreground is a new Hillcrest Shops 3 foot gauge assembly for another customers bobber caboose conversion. The trucks are manufactured here. The center picture shows the trucks being installed back under the Retlaw #104 car. To make getting the car into the south shop easier, we removed it from it's trucks and put it onto custom dolly rollers. Note the forklifts tires as it lifts the end of the car. The bottom photo shows Dave under the car checking king pin alignment.

Top is the second car truck being aligned by brute force by John and Penguino. Bottom is the car being loaded onto the semi truck trailer for shipping to Santa Margarita Ranch. Most of the comments we get are "when are you going to restore the car?" The roof restoration was all that was contracted for, so if you look from the red rain rail up that's what's new.

That's all for now. Thanks for the work!

-Sean Bautista
Hillcrest Shops

The First Coach is Back!

2007-04-24T23:15:00.000-07:00

...and just in time for the Round-Up!

Photo - Karell Reader

What's in a name?

2007-04-17T17:16:00.001-07:00

courtesy Karell Reader

With the placement of her new name board, No. 1 - which arrived as the "610 Limited" and had been unofficially dubbed "Texas Belle" - now carries the name "Caroline." In contrast to her most recent change in appearance, here's how she looked in 1979:

courtesy Tod Peddie

Additionally, the No. 3, called "Melodia B." continously throughout the first 110 years of its existence, will be renamed "S.M.R." (Santa Margarita Ranch). Interestingly, its original name, assigned to the locomotive with Barker & LePine's order, pre-dates the locomotive itself, making it among the few original vestiges from the Porter factory.

Third Annual "Round Up"

2007-04-17T17:15:00.000-07:00

On the weekend of May 5-6, the San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum will be holding it's third annual "Round Up" at the Ranch. The event is this year's only public operation of the Pacific Coast Railroad, which typically operates only for non-profit groups and other private functions. Four locomotives are expected to be under steam; No. 1 - a 25-ton Harpur 4-4-0, No. 2 - a Vulcan 2-4-0 featured on the television series "Dr. Quinn: Medicine Woman," No. 3 - a rebuilt 1897 Porter, and a special visitor. Passengers will ride in the original "Retlaw One" coaches built for the Santa Fe & Disneyland Railroad in 1955. There will also be a photo freight with ex-D&RGW boxcars and the recently-restored IRCA caboose 303.

Various exhibitors/retailers will be set up in the c.1787 Santa Margarita de Cortona Asistencia, the oldest mortared stone building in California. Additionally, there will be some 7-1/2" gauge equipment, Russell and Port Huron steam tractors, and an Operation Lifesaver simulator.

Admission ($12 adults/$6 children) includes unlimited rides on the railroad and participation in other festivities. A BBQ lunch may be had for an additional cost.

For more information, visit the SLORRM website.

Call Board

2007-04-04T17:41:00.000-07:00

Attention Cal Poly Students-
Engineering Day at the Ranch is just four weeks away! To thank you for your interest in learning about our operation, you will receive a $5 discount - just for visiting this blog! All that's neccessary to claim your prize is to write "KARELL" on the memo line of your $10 check! For the mailing address and more information, the flyer may be found here.

PCRR (and "special guest") crew members-
The big event is fast approaching! Safety training and rulebook testing will be held soon. Stay tuned for dates.

Getting here:

(Click To Enlarge)

Coach 104 Update

2007-04-01T12:38:00.000-07:00

Top is the car after the rain rail has been painted. The top masking was removed and the roof prepared for the canvas. Bottom is of the roof canvas being rolled onto the clerstory roof. Notices there are no windows yet in the clerstory.

Top photo shows the initial stretch complete. The roof is stretch length wise in the center only to allow for the subsequent shaping required for the compound curves on the ends of the clerstory. The bottom photo shows the North side of the car crew finishing their last staple. The Clerstory roof is ready for trimming and doping.

The red sticks are the window moldings after being sanded and repaired they are painted with two coats of new mold inhibitive primer and two coats of red paint. The bottom shows a window being installed. New windows are made of safety glass and we etch them with a custom design before installation. Notice the main roof cloth (below Rich's elbow) and the clerstory molding has been applied.

Top picture shows Mike stapling the main roof cloth in place. The canvas has already been stretched and fastened to the ends of the roof. After fastening along the clerstory, the material is side ways stretched and fastened above the cabin windows. Although it looks straight forward, the main roof is also a compound curve and must be carefully pulled to insure straightness and to avoid wrinkles. Notice the pigment has been applied to the main roof cloth. The bottom photo shows the look of the new windows from the inside of the car. Water damage to the finish of the wood is from the previous leaking roof. The original windows were actually fiberglass panels. Fiberglass over time will expose its fibers through it's own gel coat and the original windows were all well into that deterioration.

Top is the crew admiring the look of the new windows from the interior, notice the masking is still over the outside of the main windows. The bottom shows the roof complete with the windows and all molding restored and back in place. Notice also the plastic and paper masking material is now removed. Extreme caution had to be used in the removal of the painters masking tape (blue) because even though it is a weaker adhesive than regular masking tape it was lifting the green paint from the letter board. The crew used heat guns to remove the tape without further damage to the deteriorating paint.

Top picture shows the new porch ceiling installed on one end of the car awaiting paint. The bottom shows the car from a different perspective. Tyler is cleaning up the trim paint and window caulking. Notice the new trucks under the car? We figured they would quiet the ride around the railroad. Actually these custom made dollies provide a more flexible way to move the car in the shop. It has been a real interesting project, this car has challenged us to be more efficient while working on high, long vehicles. The roof restoration is now complete (final coat excepted) and is a beautiful sealed new roof.

-Sean Bautista
Hillcrest Shops

March, 2007

2007-03-18T18:07:00.000-07:00

This past week, we dragged the Vulcan back and forth with the Plymouth trying to figure out the issues with timing. On Thursday, we dug a pit on Horsehead Spur so we could drop the eccentrics. After burning the daylight, we began again on Friday. As it would not adjust properly, I dropped the #2 eccentric and strap, took it to the shop and machined it. Tried dialing in the valves on both sides of the engine after reinstalling and lit the engine off. Built up steam and took it for a run. Did some minor adjustments and it's now back to where it was prior to jumping time in October!

Also installed a new pressure gauge in the Harpur. Also did some new plumbing on both the Harpur and Vulcan. The Vulcan now has my modified Chinese 5-chime on it. Sounds alright...not shrill like the regular Chinese whistles.

This is the pits! Phil making the best of his given facilities to tinker with the eccentrics on No. 2. The joys of inside valve gear...

Rob is having a name board similar to the Vulcan's "Roger Linn" made up for the Harpur. "Caroline" is the name and Pierre, the artist, was out measuring it up.

-Jeff Badger

Cal Poly Engineering Day

2007-03-15T22:28:00.001-07:00

A special run day for the engineering students of Cal Poly. Click here for flyer.

"Retlaw One" Restoration Update

2007-03-02T11:28:00.000-08:00

The following update and photos are provided courtesy of Sean Bautista, proprietor of Hillcrest Shops in Reedley, who is the contractor currently working on the roofs of our ex-Disneyland Railroad "Retlaw One" coaches. Sean and crew were responsible for the restoration of Ollie Johnston's 1901 Porter 0-4-0 "Marie E." and trainset for John Lasseter, and have constructed numerous pieces of 15" gauge rolling stock for various clients and their own Hillcrest & Wahtoke Railroad.

Clerestory end plywood being removed. Old wood was 3 layers thick all nailed individually. Notice the new plywood on the main roof on the right picture. The structure demanded that we not remove all wood at once, so the main roof was removed and replaced before the clerestory was worked on. The clerestory roof was mostly OK, the main problem was with the nails used to hold the old wood on. Bad wood was found on both ends and in a 4 foot section of the middle of the roof, so these had to be replaced.

Wood, nails and glue are finally removed, exposing the structural frame members. New plywood is installed, screwed, nailed and glued to hold the compound curve in the right shape. Filler is yet to be applied. Old Disney craftsmen markings are still easily recognizable on the structural frame members inside the roof.

New wood meets old wood in the left picture of the clerestory roof. The old wood was loose and the old rusted nails were no longer holding the wood in place. We renailed and screwed the old wood down then resealed all the joints and nail heads. The screws protruding through the wood in the left photo are holding the second layer of laminate from the underneath while the glue sets up. Later they are cut short and covered with caulking. The right picture shows the roof all finished with the new clerestory ends and center patch installed and the main roof with its new plywood is in place also... Isn't it pretty?

Currently we have stripped all the old paint (4 layers) from all of the clerestory and are resealing all the joints. The molding has also been stripped, sanded and sorted. Hopefully tomorrow the primer will go on the wood and we should be repainting the clerestory by Friday. The new fabric roof material will go on after all other wood parts are painted.

-Sean Bautista
Hillcrest Shops

State of the Railroad -- February, 2006

2007-02-26T18:39:00.000-08:00

2007 has proved a promising year for the Pacific Coast thus far, and one of much work! Exciting plans are afoot for the big public event in May, and work is progressing well and fast on our latest acquisition; International Railways of Central America caboose No. 303. Five years ago, Brad LaRose was devastated when this handsome piece slipped away at the Sundown & Southern auction to become a wilderness vacation cabin. But thanks to fate, Badger's web sleuthing, and a few talented sets of hands, this tired old hack is really becoming something to be proud of. The exterior restoration of the car is essentially complete - with the new steps finished, installed and painted - and progress continues to be made on the interior. Painting is well on its way and the pot-bellied stove will soon reclaim its place. Phil, in Rio Grande style, painted the handrails and brake wheel white,, a subtle reminder to the years this caboose spent as a Colorado crummy.

Meanwhile, our 25-ton 4-4-0, acquired one year ago from the departed Six Flags Astroworld in Houston, Texas, continues to be improved. This locomotive arrived at the Ranch in sorry shape, and while there is still a long way to go, the "Texas Belle" with us today is a 100% improvement from what arrived last January. President's Day Weekend saw Phil and Jeff needle-scaling peeling paint on the domes and completing the electrical on both the Nos. 1 and 2. Gone are the days of jury-rigged gauge lamps and flashlights. Now all that's left to do is get the dynamos working and mount them! Next is finishing the runs to the ends of the tender for coach lighting. Later in the afternoon, Jim dropped by with his restored Ford Pickup. Sweet looking '39.

-Jeff Badger, Ed Kelley
Photos by Jeff Badger

P.C.R.R. Featured In New Documentary

2007-02-14T22:31:00.000-08:00

The Disneyland Railroad Story, a new documentary spotlighting the Happiest Railroad on Earth, will include a segment featuring the ex-DLRR equipment at the Santa Margarita Ranch. Set for a June, 2007, DVD release, the video was created by "The Magic Makers," a collaboration of the minds behind Ape Pen Publishing and the Extinct Attractions Club. A preview, which includes footage taking during tribute runs for Art Laidlaw, is now available at The Magic Makers' website. Look for Brad LaRose and Jim McEntire, and listen for the SP 6-chime!

January, 2006 Update

2007-01-29T23:25:00.000-08:00

Kent Jefferys running
the No. 1 (Jeff Badger)

The morning of Monday, January 15^th was freezing …literally. (or make that past tense?) Rather atypical of our beloved Mediterranean climate here on the Central Coast, temperatures plummeted well into the teens overnight, leaving some unpleasant surprises. The water main to the shop (which contains the only legitimate “facility”) froze, and an elbow, which burst in the wall, started a nice flood in the shop…as Phil and Jim made frantic phone calls trying to locate the shut-off.

Don't try at home! This courtesy of unexpected weather sneaking up on us between the previous day's run

On Sunday night and early Monday morning, Phil modified the No. 1’s firedoor to a more conventional peephole arrangement. It originally had a stove damper-type device to adjust the air intake, which tended to rattle around when baking a cake for the grade. Around 10, we hooked up the air line to her and Phil was ready to light her off. But upon opening the blower valve…nothing! We could hear air was coming through the line, so the problem solving went another step – shut the air, and take apart the firing manifold. The above picture speaks for itself. Art (the smartest of us for keeping warm!) seemed surprised at the sight when I plopped it on the stove beside Phil’s roast beef brisket to warm up (which, with the distraction of everything else, would later get just a little bit burned!) After the manifold thawed out and fighting to get a good fire in her, our Texas Belle (our new name for it, by the way), started to slowly come to life.

An "old head" uses his!
Art Laidlaw keeps warm
in the shop.

As the SP 6-chime was still on the No. 2, her Astroworld whistle (a throaty 4" Buckeye 3) had been put back on. We attempted to swap it out with Jeff's modified Chinese 5-chime, though aborted the effort after realizing the safeties and elbows (good old sideshooters) would have to come off. The steamboat it was! Also while waiting for steam, Jeff grabbed the torch and cut away the final remnants of the old blowdown deflector. It was a quirky arrangement with a piece of pipe running the length of the locomotive until finally discharging beneath the pilot. It will not be missed.

Phil Reader and Marty Knox

Additionally, we saw visits from two familiar faces in the tourist railroad industry. Marty Knox, longtime CMO of the Huckleberry Railroad in Michigan, made his second visit to the P.C.R.R. and spent the better part of the day with us. Marty will be retiring from the Huck this year, ending his long-running career in steam which most recently included the overhaul of Denver & Rio Grande K-27 No. 464. Our other guest for the day (and the following) was our good friend Kent Jefferys. A more frequent presence at the Ranch, Kent, when not busy at Roaring Camp, has escaped south a few times to help out when he can.

Jim McEntire takes the Russell for a spin

With the No. 2 and train stored on the main, we were relegated to ¾ trips of the loop – backing down the big grade to the shop, and then charging forward back to the granary. Kent, Jeff, Phil and I each got to boil water and run for a bit. It was only my second time on this engine, and she fired great for me. (I must say, now that I’ve got to know her a little better I think I’m developing a soft spot!) Meanwhile, Jim fired up the Russell steam tractor and took it around for a bit. For those who have never seen it, a real hoot to see (and hear) in operation, and most certainly the neatest non-rail piece at the ranch.

After a long day, we gathered around the stove, where we were regaled with Art's stories and Patti's piping hot beef stew. We then cut hoses and took other measures to store the locomotives until our indefinite next operation.

-Ed Kelley (Photos by Jeff Badger)

History of No. 1

2007-01-27T18:39:00.000-08:00

PACIFIC COAST NO. 1 "CAROLINE"
By Ed Kelley

Despite her 1860s appearance, No. 1 holds the distinction of being the newest locomotive on the Pacific Coast roster. A 5/8-scale replica inspired by the famed Civil War-era locomotive “The General,” No. 1 was one of two such engines built for the Astroworld theme park of Houston, Texas. Three parties played a role in their construction; the running gear and tenders were completed by Guiberson-Harpur of Wilmington, California, while the boilers were built at Superior Boiler Works of Kansas. Final assembly was completed in Texas by J.K. Byrne in 1968.

As the railroad encompassed the park - much like the 610 Freeway encircles the City of Houston - Astroworld’s loopline was christened the “610 Limited.” The locomotives, numbered 1 and 2, bore the names “Cannonball” and “Spitfire,” respectively, and together comprised the only motive power for the park’s first decade-and-a-half of existence.

No. 1 "Cannonball" at Astroworld,
c.1978. Courtesy Tod Peddie

The slow demise of Astroworld’s little steam railroad began in the early 1980s, when Six Flags - who acquired the park in 1975 - was unwilling to fund necessary boiler repairs for the No. 2 and sold it for scrap price. Sold to Gary Norton, it saw a brief return to service on the Silverwood Central Railroad of Athol, Idaho, until displaced by larger motive power. It has since passed through private hands in Durango, Colorado, and is currently under restoration in Georgetown, CA. Adding to the loss of No. 2, steam operations took another blow when a diesel electric and diesel hydraulic locomotive were transferred from Six Flags Magic Mountain. Employees’ pleas and persistence were all which kept steam in operation for the remainder of Astroworld’s existence. When Six Flags announced plans to close the financially-troubled park and auction its assets, the locomotive was operating just one weekend each month.

The crew that kept her running
in 1978. Courtesy Tod Peddie

In January, 2006, on behalf of Rob Rossi, Phil and Karell Reader negotiated the purchase of No. 1 prior to the auctioning of the park’s remains. Since her arrival at the ranch, she has been a continuous project, and will eventually receive significant cosmetic improvements including a new cab, stack, and paint scheme. All will be done true to her classic 1860s lines, keeping her a regularly-operating representation of the locomotives which won the West. With the dieselization of the two Harpur locomotives at Six Flags Over Georgia, No. 1 has the distinction of being the only operable Harpur locomotive in the world. She was placed into service on the Pacific Coast in April, 2006.

Pacific Coast Railroad Co.

The Blog Has Moved!

Boxcar Saturday

Tender Lettering

FW: Karl's boxcar

Iron Horse Chef: Master of Backhead Cuisine

The Iron *Horse* Chef!

#1 Update

Another Harpur under steam...sort of

The Boyz at Pacific Coast

A History of Rancho Santa Margarita

Harpur Hiccup

Zen Master & Grumps seen running in helper service.

New Brakestand For No. 1

Fall Update

"Roger" Returns Home

"Cookie" Ties The Knot!

Astroworld Steam Man Visits Ranch

"Dr. Quinn" Clip Featuring No. 2

Before: After

#1 Update

P.C.R.R. Lends a Helping Hand

Round-Up Montage '08: Part 1

4/27/08

Back in the day...

Two in the Yard

Cleaning Up the Caroline

The Cowboy Hibachi

2008 SPRING TRAINING

Spring at the Pacific Coast Railroad

1935 Film Featuring Original PCRy

SLO Intl' Film Festival

Oil Can's Awesome Steak

Badger-built Live Steamer for Sale

CMO on the Go -- Final Installment

CMO on the Go -- Part 4

CMO on the Go -- Part 3

CMO on the Go -- Part 2

OT: How To Clean Your Monitor

Karl's Boxcar

CMO On The Go!

#2 Update

Coach Update

A New Brand

Ad

We're On Google Earth!

Meet the New Vulcan No. 2!

Ferrorancheros Que Trabajan En Otros Trenes

Happy Birthday, Grumps...ya old geezer!

Loading the Linn

Vulcanic Eruption!

Happy Trails, Aaron!

Photoshop Phun

Another Railroad Breakfast

Abysmal Weather Update

Trains To Run For SLO Intl. Film Festival

Eine Kleine Nachtdampf

A Visit to Christmas Past

Updates/other randomness

11/28/07

A Ride in the Lilly Belle

First Steam in the Yard

Crew Bulletin

A Visit to Christmas Past

11/16/07

Switching the Yard

A Fall Pictorial

A Phantom-tastic Party!

Meet the "Gandy Dancers"

Gandy Dancing Progress

The Last Train to Los Olivos

Pacific Coast Goes to Hillcrest

October Updates

A Busy Week

Progress Report: 9/15/07

They've been working on the...

The Swan: P.C.R.R. Edition

Hollywood Magic at the Ranch: Fun Facts About Our "Star" Lokie

3rd Annual Santa Margarita Reata Roping & Stock Horse Contest

Railroad Lends A Hand

The Iron Horse Chef!