The SETOFFnarcoa.memberlodge.org/Resources/Documents/Setoff/SO2015... · 2015. 7. 11. · The SETOFF is the official publication of the North American Railcar Operators Association

Colorado Narrow Gauge Excursions

New Mexico Railroad Fair

GSMR Digs in

SETOFFThe Official Publication of NARCOANorth American Railcar Operators Association

July / Aug 2015 Volume 29 - No. 4

The

2 The SETOFF July / Aug 2015

NARCOA [email protected]

Nominations, Elections Dan Page (714) [email protected]

NARCOA Insurance Administrator Tom Norman (406) 722-3012 1047 Terrace View Drive Alberton, MT 59820 [email protected]

Rule Book Certification Test Al McCracken 2916 Taper Avenue Santa Clara, CA 95051 [email protected]

The SETOFF Editor Brian Davis (330) [email protected]

NARCOA Webmaster Keith Mackey (352) 347-0770 [email protected]

NARCOA Forum ModeratorRich Stivers (408) [email protected]

Committee Chairs:

Judiciary ChairDan Berg (702) 341-86172017 Mule Creek St.Las Vegas, NV [email protected]

Safety ChairBob Knight (815) [email protected]

Rules ChairJim McKeel (316) 721-4378 [email protected]

Operations ChairBill Andrews, [email protected]

Affiliates ......Dave Verzi [email protected] & Custom-Built Motorcar Cmt.... Tom Falicon [email protected] .............. Bernie LeadonMembership Manager..........Bob Hastings [email protected] Manager ......................Dan Page [email protected] S

NARCOA Radio Call Sign WPHT745Channel 1 – 151.625 MHzChannel 2 – 151.505 MHzChannel 3 – 158.400 MHz

President: Bill Schertle Vice-President: Bernie LeadonSecretary: Bob Hastings Treasurer: Tom Norman

Area 1 Director (ME, NH, VT, NY, MA, CT, RI) Keith KnowltonP.O. Box 325Brooklyn, CT 06234860-779-1361

Area 2 Director (NJ, PA, DE, MD) John Gonder (724)244-7538 [email protected]

Area 3 Director (IN, MI, OH) Jeff Levengood (330) [email protected]

Area 4 Director (WV, VA, KY, NC, SC, TN, AR) Bernie Leadon (615) [email protected]

Area 5 Director (MS, AL, LA, GA, FL) Will Thompson (229) 359-5701 [email protected]

Area 6 Director (MN, WI, IL) Bob Knight (815) [email protected]

Area 7 Director (ND, SD, NE, IA) Carl Schneider (515) 967-5181 [email protected]

Area 8 Director (Canada, World outside U.S.) John Brown (705)538-1196 [email protected]

Area 9 Director ( CO, KS, MO, NM, OK, TX, UT) Chris Weaver (303) 589-6665 [email protected]

Area 10 Director (WA, OR, ID, MT, AK, WY) Bill Taylor (406) 721-2351 [email protected]

Area 11 Director (CA, NV, AZ, HI) Bill Schertle (714) 743-0804 [email protected]

Director-at-Large (non–voting) Dan Berg (702) [email protected]

Director-at-Large (non–voting) Jaime Samuell (740) 427-4444

The SETOFF is the official publication of the North American Railcar Operators Association (NARCOA) and is published bimonthly to promote safe legal operation of railroad motorcars, and to encourage fellowship and exchange of information among motorcar enthusiasts.

Brian Davis, SETOFF Editor5626 Chadwell Cir

Ravenna, Ohio [email protected]

The SETOFF is printed byGreg Kightlinger, GEK Printing

Membership in NARCOA, which includes a subscription to The SETOFF, is $36 per year, and is available from the Secretary at the address below. Please send your check made out to NARCOA to:

Bob Hastings, SecretaryP.O. Box 9035 Cincinnati, OH 45209

[email protected]

All subscriptions and address changes must be sent to the NARCOA Secretary. All materials for publication must be sent

to the SETOFF Editor.Materials received by the 10th of even numbered months will appear on the 1st of the next odd numbered month subject to editing and available space. Please in-clude your e-mail address and phone num-ber. Electronic submissions are preferred. Text files must have either .doc or .txt ex-tensions. Photo files must be high resolu-tion with .jpg extensions. All materials are archived and not returned. We cannot re-print copyrighted material without written authorization or proper attribution. Letters to the Editor must be signed and in-clude an e-mail address or phone number for authentication. All such letters may be printed as discussed in the NARCOA pol-icy book.For more information about NARCOA, the safe legal operation of motorcars, or to find NARCOA affiliates located in Canada, the United States, and Mexico, please see:www.narcoa.org© Copyright 2015 - NARCOA. All rights reserved. Reproduction, by any means, in whole or part, by any party, is strictly pro-hibited.

Volume 29 Nov 4

SETOFFThe

ON THE COVER: Motor cars cross the Animas River while headed toward Silverton. The elevation here is still 2000’ below that of Silverton. Photo by James Lancaster

3The SETOFFJuly / Aug 2015

President’s MessageBill Schertle

From The Editor

Brian Davis

NARCOA Officials 2President’s Message 3From The Editor 3Joe Speeder 4Directors’ Messages 5Many Waters in Washington 6Great Smoky Mountains Digs 8Colorado Narrow Gauge 10Steamtown 2014 14 NARCOA in New Mexico 16Upcoming Excursions 18Suppliers 23NARCOA Company Store 24

In This Issue

I just returned from my first ever narrow gauge motorcar excursion. It was an amazing event coordinated by Philip Walters from the Rocky Mountain Division. Using a borrowed Narrow Gauge MT 14, I was able to experience the wonders of the Durango and Silverton and the Cumbres and Toltec Railroads in Southwest Colorado. The “Narrow Gauge Gang” as they call themselves, are passionate about slim gauge railroading and enjoy sharing their stories. I was able to see many folks I have run with before plus others I just met. They are a fine group of people and fine representatives of our hobby. I hope that you will have similar stories to share as you continue to enjoy excursions throughout the summer and fall. Thanks to all the EC’s who make this happen.

Stay safe!Bill Schertle

Hello Readers-We are in the heat of the

summer,and the middle of the NARCOA operating season, Our excursion listings are packed with excellent runs all across the country, some near and some far away. One of the missions of the SETOFF is to bring accounts of these excursions to NARCOA members and to others interested in our hobby. Now if I were rich and retired, I would be traveling to all of these events to bring their reports to you, but since this isn’t the case, it is my hope that you the readers will take the time to jot down your adventures on the rails and forward them to me for a future issue.

Thanks again for the chance to put our adventures on paper!

We will see you on the rails!Brian

2015 NARCOAANNUAL MEETING

Friday Sept 25th and Saturday Sept 26th.Sheraton - Chicago O’Hare Airport Hotel

6501 Mannheim Road, Rosemont, Illinois 60018

This meeting is open to all NARCOA members. Any member wishing to address the board or add items to the

agenda, must contact president Bill Schertle at (714) 743-0804 or email [email protected].

To secure a room at the NARCOA rate contact Bob Knight at (815) 786-3096 or email at

[email protected]. The cut-off date for room reservation is August 18th,

2015 for this year’s rate of $137.00 per night, plus taxes.


Joe SpeederIt didn’t look like the weather was going to be very

cooperative for the motorcar excursion this weekend, Joe thought. The weather man says cloudy and showers throughout the weekend. Not good. Joe debated whether or not to go on the run. He soon realized that if it was only sporadic showers it would be okay and he would take his enclosed car.

Joe arrived at the set-on location and got his car on the rail before the rain started again. There were 15 cars that decided the weather wasn’t going to keep them from enjoying this excursion. The safety briefing was held and the EC made sure that all participants had signed a liability waiver and all operators had turned in their car inspection forms. The EC also walked along the string of cars and took a cursory look at each one, double checking a few of the most important things such as lights, brakes, and wheels. This particular car that Joe was using on this day had one headlight and one tail/brake light. All checked out well. The cars got underway. This wasn’t a long run and would not be a fast paced run either - just a nice leisurely ride through the countryside.

The group hadn’t gone far before the showers became a little more intense. Joe decided he didn’t need to flag because it was raining hard and it was difficult to flag with the doors closed on his car. He knew that he had a good brake light and he had discussed this possibility with the operator of the car that would be following him. Joe also demonstrated his brake light for the operator of the following car. All was going well.

The group arrived at their turn-around point. Once again the group had lucked out somewhat as the showers let up just long enough for the group to walk to the restaurant, have a fantastic lunch, and walk back to their cars.

They began the return leg of their trip and, again, all was going well. Everyone seemed to be enjoying the leisurely pace of the excursion and the beautiful scenery. Joe always attempted to be very courteous to the operators of the cars that followed him on excursions. He would always flip the brake handled forward a few times as he neared a location where he intended to slow down or stop to flash his brake light a few times in order to alert the following operator of his intentions.

About halfway back to the point of origin of the excursion there was a road crossing that wasn’t very

obvious from the rail. All operators had been warned about this crossing by the EC at the safety briefing. As Joe always did, he flipped his brake lever forward a few times to flash his brake light as he approached this crossing. He rolled up to the crossing and stopped to check traffic. Bammmmm!!!!! His car was hit from behind. What happened?!?! Joe hopped out of his car and took inventory of his body checking for injury. He found none. He hurried over the car that had rear-ended him and checked the lone occupant of that car also. Fortunately no injury there either.

The EC and the rest of the group were notified of the incident. The EC came back to get information from the operators, look over and measure the scene, and take some photographs of the scene and the damage to the two motorcars. The EC asked the operator of the car that had struck Joe’s car what had happened. He said that Joe had not signaled his stop. His single brake light had not come on. That raised questions because Joe had already told the EC what his procedure was when he was planning to slow down or stop and he confirmed that he had applied his brake in the usual manner which would have lit up his brake light. What had happened?

The EC went over to Joe’s car and told Joe to turn on his lights. Joe did that. They checked Joe’s headlight. It was on. They checked Joe’s tail light. It was on. The EC told Joe to apply his brake. No brake light!!! They checked the bulb and found that the bright filament in the bulb had burned out. The EC told Joe that was exactly why he had two tail lights and two brake lights on his car. If, in the remote chance that one of the bulbs burned out, the other one would still be there and would still work. It was also pointed out that had Joe used his flag, recommended but not required, this incident would probably not have occurred.

Joe checked his car over and found that, other than a little body damage, the car still operated fine. The car that had struck him was also still in working order but with some minor front end damage. The group got underway and finished the ride.

Joe got his car home and realized that he had just a short time to get his car fixed as there was a great ride coming up in two weeks that he did not want to miss. Joe’s first priority, though, was to help the owner of the car that had hit him get his car repaired and looking

Joe Speeder, continues on Pg 5


Area Six(MN, WI, IL)

Bob Knight

Area Eight(CANADA & International)

John Brown

Greeting to all the members of Area 6. Happiness is upon us as we are well under way into the 2015 motorcar season. Finally, we have broken the ice by getting a motorcar run in Illinois, thanks to Great Lakes Rail Cars, EC, Mike Ford.

He was able to secure a one day run on the Kankakee, Beaverville and Southern RR (KB&S) in May and there were a lot of Area 6 members whom enjoyed the run in their area at long last!! The railroad management and employees were great hosts for the approx. 100 mile run from Iroquois Jct., IL to West Lafayette, IN and return. We even had the privilege of our own “rear end Fred”....Co EC, Fred Lonnes ...who ran his Milwaukee MT19 rather than his normal hi-rail.

Please check the NARCOA website as EC, Dave Otte has planned an excursion on July 12th on the St. Croix Valley RR followed by Mike Ford’s North Shore Scenic Railroad the next day. After these two excursions, Mike begins this several runs in Canada from July 15th to July 24th ending in Shaunavon, Saskatchewan. In August (Aug 22st), EC Andy Sargent has a one day run from Jasper to French Lick, IN. Mike Ford also has his very popular Indiana Northeastern RR 2 day run on Aug 28 through the 30th. In checking the website you

will find many possible excursions listed with the First Iowa group. I receive many phone calls and e-mails asking about excursions that are within a days driving time either in or near by Area 6. I hope the above information gets you started enjoying runs on the rails this season.

Another plus for Area 6 was to welcome two new members into our membership. They are Jeff Martin from Lisle, Illinois and Greg Cotton from Minneapolis, MN. All of us welcome you to this great hobby!

I would like to thank all of you who took the time to vote this term.

Also another item of great importance is the up-dated rules stickers you have received. Be sure to place them in your rule book and if you prefer, you can print a copy of the updated rule book from the NARCOA website, found under the documents tab. This is also a great time to re-fresh yourself with the rules and regulations we operate under on all of our excursions. If you have any motorcar questions or concerns, please give me a call or e-mail. Please make a note to attend the annual NARCOA meeting held in the Chicago area this Sept. 25th and 26th. Great to have the meeting held right in our Area 6.

Be safe, and enjoy this great hobby, and I hope to see you on the rails soon.

Bob Knight

I would like to welcome Gordon Blake from Port Alberni to our NARCOA family. I must admit there are more motor car enthusiast out west joining then in the eastern part of Canada. I tried to email Gordon to submit some information on his age, work, how he heard about NARCOA and why he joined but the email I had for him got returned. Maybe when Gordon reads this he will email me on the above information.

That is understandable with the number of excursions that are being run out west. Eastern part of Canada has more or less dried up with only the Ontario Northland out of North Bay and CN (Algoma Central) out of Sault Ste. Marie being the only runs available. Even the old AC line has not had a run in many years since CN took over that line.

Understandable with no runs in my area the prospects of new members does not look good at this time.

It is June as I write this and knowing the Calendar is full of motor car runs everywhere I do hope our operators remember to KEEP their distance behind the car in front and always be prepared for that motor car in front to come to an abrupt STOP either from a break down or at a road crossing, station stop or just a look see at the beautiful country one is passing through.

John Brown

good once again. Joe then did some body repair on his car and touched up the paint. Joe’s final repair on his car, though, was to replace his tail light / brake light system with two separate components on the rear of his car rather than the previous single one. He also decided

to make it a little more noticeable when the brakes were applied by adding a flasher so that the lights would alternately flash when the brake was applied. He did not plan on letting another burned out bulb cause him any more problems.

Joe Speeder, cont’d:


The name of the town of Walla Walla, Washington is generally credited to be Nez Perce Indian for ‘many waters’. In the case of trackage, there are many directions to go on the Palouse River and Coulee City, and we were able to experience the Weston, Wallula and Dayton branches.

Will Krasselt, EC for PRO, lined up excursion run dates for us to enjoy the many views from Walla Walla on the weekend of May 9 & 10, 2015. Those of us who joined Will and his helpers noted that it was Mother’s Day on that Sunday, but we were all choosing to celebrate that event on the rails.

About 24 cars set on Friday afternoon. The weather was perfect all weekend, with highs around 80, lows in the mid 50’s and light breezes, meaning doors were left open, curtains were tied back, and jackets were off!

On Saturday after our safety meeting, we set out to the south into Oregon. This line runs about 25 miles one way, through Milton-Freewater, and ending PRCC trackage at Weston, Oregon, where we turned the cars. Running back into Walla Walla completed our morning with

a running time a little over 3 hours. We took a quick lunch break, then set off west to Wallula Junction. This line connects with Tri-Cities (Pasco, K e n n e w i c k and Richland), W a s h i n g t o n . Our turn-around spot there had us right next to the UP main line (between Spokane and the Hinkle hump yard), and across the Snake River from the BNSF

main line (between Spokane and the yard at Pasco). This 62 mile ride was about 3.5 hours.

Many Waters, Many Tracks in Washington

by Barbara Elwood

Above: Dayton's historic depot Sunday - photo by Dave ElwoodBelow: The Snake River, UP track in foreground, BNSF across the way -

photo by Barbara Elwood


Sunday, again following our safety meeting, we ran north, then east into Dayton, Washington, passing through a golf course. Watch out for golf carts at those crossings! On today’s 76-mile round trip, we were running over 30 miles of track that had not seen service in years. Our pilot had gone out in the days prior and checked it out for us, but we still paused briefly to clean out flangeways on a few crossings.

Once in Dayton, we had plenty of time to have our lunch, visit a few nearby shops, and tour the historic depot. This former UP depot, originally OWRN, is the oldest in the state of Washington, built in 1881. In 1899 it was moved, using a horse, roller logs and capstan, to its present location. It has been designated a historic building, and is now restored and maintained as a museum. The upstairs is presented as it was in the days when the station master lived there, in his 3-bedroom home.

Over our two days run in Walla Walla, we saw rolling farmland, main-line railroads, historic buildings and many crossings of various kinds. The variety kept things interesting, and the changes in altitude kept you guessing, since we were at about 350’ above sea level at Wallula, over 1300’ in Dayton, and around 950’ in Walla Walla. PRO provided the now traditional port-a-john car, and there was also a ‘donut car’ for our mid-morning break each day.

This excursion was fun, and well-run, so many thanks to Will and all his helpers for making this possible.

Top: On the hill in Oregon - photo by Barbara ElwoodMiddle: View from Dayton operator’s window - photo by Dave ElwoodBelow: Leaving WallaWalla heading to Weston - photo by Barbara Elwood


It’s not everyday that a NARCOA member is able to attend a scenic motorcar excursion and also get to walk down into an excavation site to experience the building of a railroad turntable. Folks attending the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad excursion got to do just that on June 6th & 7th. NARCOA EC and GSMR Roadmaster & Turntable Project Manager, Tom Falicon, explained the intricacies of the construction as he stood atop the center pivot pedestal and fielded questions from the group about the build. Excursion attendees were

also treated to a rare tour of the railroad’s new steam shop and got to see the steady progress being made on the rebuilding of their steam engine #1702. Great weather and good times were the keys to a weekend of mountain railroading that was hard to beat!

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad excursion

By Tom Falicon

All Photos by Mugzi Falicon



The Durango & Silverton and the Cumbres & Toltec Railroads are mountain railroading at its finest - steep grades, tight curves, high bridges, dark tunnels, lots of water, high passes, and unpredictable weather. All of this was true at the Rocky Mountain Division’s Colorado Narrow Gauge Excursion the first week in June. Excursion Coordinator, Philip Walters, did a fine job of working with both railroads to make the excursion happen.

The excursion began on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad in Silverton, a small town in southwest Colorado. Eighteen cars set on for a short afternoon ride to the wye at Elk Park and return. The next day we motored to

Rockwood, a distance of about 27 miles, all of which are inaccessible except by foot, rail or helicopter. The railroad follows the Animas River the entire way and in many places is on a ledge with the river hundreds of feet below. On the third day we traveled past Rockwood to the wye at Railroad Park, about 5 miles short of the railroad terminus at Durango. The final day was another trip to Rockwood and return.

We then trailered our motorcars to Chama, New Mexico, for a three day excursion on the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad. Both of these railroads at one time were part of the Denver and Rio Grande and were connected. Now, however, they are popular tourist attractions because of their beauty and the use

of original steam power on all their trains. The Cumbres and Toltec again is noted for its steep grades, deep canyons, and elevations that exceed 10,000 feet. Both railroads also use motorcars for track inspection and rock patrols.

The Cumbres and Toltec begins in Chama, New Mexico and travels about 64 miles to Antonito, Colorado. Along the way it crosses into each state several times. From Chama it climbs a steep grade to Cumbres Pass at over 10,000 feet and then descends slightly into Antonito. After an overnight in Antonito, the lineup returned to Chama for setoff. It was an exciting trip. Thanks to Rocky Mountain Division and Philip Walters for making it happen! - Bill

Colorado Narrow Gauge by Bill Schertle


Opposite: Three motor cars negotiating one of many s-curves. Above: Motor cars wait at Tacoma for Silverton-bound tourist trains; Below: Traversing the ledge high above the Animas River while returning to Silverton. Next Pages: Tanglefoot Curve, on the east side of Cumbres Pass, where the narrow gauge track turns back on itself as it descends toward Antonito. Photo by James Lancaster




Steamtown National Historic Site is a railroad museum located in downtown Scranton, Pennsylvania, at the site of the former Scranton yards of the Delaware, Lackawanna

and Western Railroad. The museum is built around a working turntable and a roundhouse that are largely replications of the original DL&W

facilities. The roundhouse, for example, was reconstructed from remnants of a 1932 structure. The site also features several original outbuildings dated between 1899 and 1902.

Most of the steam locomotives and other railroad equipment at Steamtown NHS were originally collected by F. Nelson Blount, from New England. In 1964, Blount established a non-profit organization, the Steamtown Foundation, to operate Steamtown, USA, a steam railroad museum and excursion business in Bellows Falls, Vermont. I had visited the Vermont site and just found a number of old steam engines sitting around a turntable overgrown with grass.

In 1984, the Steamtown moved to Scranton, conceived of as urban

re-development and funded in part by the city. But the museum failed to attract visitors, and within two years was facing bankruptcy. By 1995, the National Park Service (NPS) had acquired Steamtown, USA, and improved its facilities. Craig Hartman, MAMA president, had arranged for MAMA to participate in the Steamtown National Historic Site “Railfest 2014” event, as they did in 2013. Thanks are also due to Dick Forde, a Steamtown volunteer and a NARCOA member, who helped

coordinate our activities.

Steamtown National Historic Site

Railfest -2014A Celebration of Railroading! Aug 30 & 31

By David Sigafoose

Above: Park Superintendent, Debbie Conway with Craig Hartman

Above: Steve Weiss leading the consist. Below: Ken Ciparis giving

rides on the Steamtown handcar

Mid-Atlantic Motorcar Association Welcome Banner


At Steamtown MAMA was given 8 tracks located behind their maintenance shop building to operate on. These tracks merge into a single track via a number of switches with self-guarding frogs. The park officially opened at 10:00 am, but we seemed to have visitors there well before 10 am. At one point we had 9 motorcars all operating at the same time.

Mike Heaton with his custom built #3 and Tom Schmeider with his Fairmont M-19 operated on a separate track. Ken Ciparis also operated on a separate track with his Fairmont M-9. Craig Hartman displayed his Tamper TMC-2, and did not give rides. The remaining group consisting of Paul Sternitzke with his Budda, Hank Walther with his Fairmont M-9, Bruce Tracy with his Woodings, Steve Knobloch with Bruce’s S-2, Carl Megonogle with his Fairmont Tomah cab MT-19, and I with my Beavercar BC2M84.

For hours straight we just loaded up people, ran about 1000 feet down to end of track, returned, unloaded people, and loaded the next group. We staggered our lunch breaks so that we always had some cars available to give rides. It was amazing to see how much everyone enjoyed riding on our motorcars. I particularly enjoyed instructing our younger passengers on train horn signals and letting them activate my air horn (no air tank, so it really wasn’t very loud).

Craig made arrangements for a special benefit dinner aboard one of the original Phoebe Snow dining cars, Saturday evening starting at 6 pm. The meal was exceptionally good, and made more enjoyable by dining in an original Phoebe Snow dining car. We also enjoyed a very pleasant and informative conversation with Paul Cappelloni, one of the ELDCPS board of directors.

Park Superintendent Debbie Conway stopped by and informed us that their handcar volunteer was not available for Sunday, and asked if we could provide someone to operate the handcar with visitors. Craig immediately volunteered Ken Ciparis who then spent the day shuttling up and down the track with visitors on the handcar.

At the end of the weekend, Craig was asked how many people had signed releases he proudly answered “797 people”. In 2013 Craig Hartman was responsible for at least five people joining NARCOA, and 2014’s results are not yet in. Craig personally handed out 14-18 of his cards to very interested people (two with speeders), and all of us that gave rides had interested folks as well that rode with us, so hopefully we have helped keep our

hobby alive and growing. With the Steamtown turntable out of commission and little visiting equipment, our activity giving rides to the public was the hit of the show. Barb Klobucar (events specialist) was also extremely pleased as well. It was an extremely exhausting and extremely enjoyable weekend. I know that all of us that participated are looking forward to repeating this experience next year.

Above: Carl Megonigle in his MT-19 & Lillian Mello in an M-19 Below: Paul Sternitzke with his Budda car.

Above: Steve Noblock starting Bruce Tracy’s S-2 Below: Bruce Tracy

guarding Craig Hartman’s TMC-2 Bottom: Mike Heaton’s Railmobile


On May 23, 2015, the 20th Annual Albuquerque Railroad Fair was held at the New Mexico State Fairgrounds. On this occasion, there were not only vendors and model trains running, but two speeders on display.

Following in the footsteps of our predecessors, Stuart Edmonson and Frank Lams, Dave and Barbara Elwood had asked Bryan Moseley, who organizes the event, if there might be a way to include our motorcars as a way to promote the hobby. He was very agreeable, and helpful with the idea. He arranged for us to have access to the venue about a month ahead, so that we could prepare adequately.

Steve & Beth Treibel, who have been in the hobby for years, agreed to participate. We discussed which of our cars to take (since we have narrow gauge as well as standard gauge), and what other materials would best portray a typical excursion. Steve printed out photos of beautiful scenery

and standard trailer set-ups, which Beth and Barbara laminated and mounted on a cork board. Steve and Beth made the easel for the cork board, and also some corner stanchions to rope off the motorcars, leaving access on only one side. They also printed up about 10 copies of the NARCOA brochure, all of which were handed out during the course of the day.

On the day of the show, all 4 of us met bright and early - just like a real motorcar event! We unloaded the two cars, then set up the tables and chairs, hooked up a TV and DVD player, and laid out the brochures and other items. An hour ahead of the doors opening, some of the vendors from the tables inside came by to see what we were up to. One of those was a retired Santa Fe Railway maintenance-of-way supervisor who had used a motorcar in his early

years with the railroad. Other people started showing up, and we were off and running.

All day it was an almost constant parade of people looking, asking questions and commenting or telling stories of their relationship with a speeder. We had

Annual Albuquerque Railroad Fairby Barbara Elwood

All photos by Beth Treibel


several maintenance-of-way personnel reliving their best, or worst, moments, and modelers who were curious to see “the real thing”. There were many railroad employees who paused to take a look, and one NARCOA member who hadn’t been out on the rails recently. There were kids who wanted their parents to take their pictures up on the seats, and at least one 10-year-old who already

knew how engines worked in general, so he was asking very specific questions about “what makes it go?”

The weather cooperated fully, and many people were brought “up to speed” on the speeder hobby. We look forward to our next opportunity to display the railcars that introduce us to so many other people.


Jul 3 - 4 - OR posted 05/20 Oregon Pacific Railroad Sixth annual “Fourth of July Weekend” on the OPR. Friday, Molalla Branch, Saturday, Rides for the Public on the East Portland Branch with late running into the evening with fireworks show at Oaks Park. . Bill Andrews EC with Kevin Novak, 503-984-4186, .

Jul 10 - 12 - CO posted 04/10 Leadville Colorado and Southern Railroad Leadville, Colorado, Rocky Mountain Division Hi Summer Run, Various runs over three days. Cost to be determined. EC: Jerry Geiger, .

Jul 10 - 12 - NY posted 05/06 Delaware & Ulster RR Camp out and run this old line in Arkville. A great time for all as we night run and day run this line in the beautiful Catskills with camping allowed onsite. Dinner Train Excursion or BBQ may be possible as well. ECs Craig W. Hartman, Chris Vitz..Cost is $75.

Jul 11 - ID posted 05/26 Washington and Idaho Railway Public rides to raise funds for the ongoing restoration of the Potlatch Depot. There will be no fees for the operators. Total miles will be over 100. Contact is EC Will Krasselt. 208-310-1335.

Jul 12 - MN posted 02/13 St. Croix Valley Railroad North Central Railcars, Ltd. is hosting a 1-day, 60-mile round-trip excursion on the “The Skally Line” in Northeastern Minnesota. Set-on will be in Rush City. Excursion fee is $60 (payable to North Central Railcars). 25 car limit. To register for the excursion, contact David Otte, E.C.at (920) 246-2103.

Jul 13 - MN posted 01/31 Full - Wait list started North Shore Scenic Railroad North Central Railcars, Ltd. is hosting a 1 day “rail & sail” motor car excursion between Two Harbors and Duluth. Approximately 52 miles roundtrip. Excursion fee of $130 includes rail fee, a 1-3/4 hour Duluth

Harbor Cruise, as well as lunch at the NSSR depot.. 25 car limit. EC Michael P. Ford (317) 839-9320. Jul 15 - MB posted 01/31 Lake Line Railroad North Central Railcars, Ltd. is hosting a 1-day motor car excursion between Gimli and Clandeboye. Approximately 72 miles roundtrip. Excursion fee is $100 (USD or CDN) includes lunch in Petersfield. 25 car limit. EC Michael P. Ford (317) 839-9320. Jul 16 - MB posted 01/31 Boundary Trail Railway North Central Railcars, Ltd. is hosting a 1-day motor car excursion between Manitou and Morden. We will run the line twice for a total of 84 miles. Excursion Fee is $85 (USD or CDN). 25 car limit. ECMichael P. Ford (317) 839-9320.

Jul 18- GA posted 05/03 Blue Ridge Scenic RR Blue Ridge to Ellijay - Supper stop 2nd trip. Price: $5 per car active Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad Volunteers. All others $10. No car limit but call/email if coming. Coordinators: Carl Hymen (706-455-0492) Barry Vincent (706-276-2283) Set On info: Davenport Woodyard. 1st set-on 12 noon, safety briefing 12:30. 2nd set-on 3:30 PM, safety briefing 3:45 PM. Jul 18 - SK posted 01/31 Long Creek Railroad Company North Central Railcars, Ltd. is hosting a 1 day motor car excursion between Estevan and Tribune. Approximately 80 miles round-trip. Excursion fee is $100 (USD or CDN). 25 car limit. ECMichael P. Ford (317) 839-9320.

Jul 18 - OH posted 03/21 Ashland Railway West Salem, Ohio 60 mile round trip with lunch included. 35 car limit. Fee $84, NARCOA insurance required, OVR Rules. Contact Phil Linne.

NARCOA EXCURSIONSas of June 21 2015

Please submit all excursions and ads directly [email protected]

The SETOFF downloads directly from the websitefor the most current information.


Jul 18 - 19 - WV posted 01/19 West Virginia Central RR Great Train Race and Picnic Two day trip up Cheat Mountain to meet Cass Scenic RR’s Shays great photo session and picnic atop the mountain. Sunday trip to Tygart Junction Aprox 195 Rt miles overnight on track. Appalachian Rail Excursions John Gonder coordinator Jul 20 - 24 - SK posted 01/31 Full – Wait List Fife Lake Railway, Red Coat Road & Rail, Great Western Railway North Central Railcars, Ltd. is hosting a 5-day motor car excursion between Assiniboia and Coronach; Assinboia and Ogema; and Assinboia and Consul,. Approximately 600 rail miles. Excursion fee$700 (USD or CDN) and includes 2 nights lodging in Shaunavon. 25 car limit. EC Michael P. Ford (317) 839-9320.

Jul 25 - 26 - OR posted 05/14 Albany and Eastern RR/Oregon Coast Scenic RR “Oregon Duo” A PRO event. 25 July Lebanon to Sweethome approx. 35 miles round trip. 26 July Garibaldi to end of track approx. 90 miles round trip. Bill Andrews coordinator with Guy Howard coordinator in training. For contact Guy Howard 541-998-5280.

Jul 25 - 26 - PA posted 02/10 Central PA Weekend July 25 - North Shore Railroad approximately 86 miles from Northumberland to Beach Haven and return. Tour of Susquehanna Steam nuclear power plant. Open house and dinner on Saturday night. July 26 approximately 50 miles from Sunbury to Shamokin and return. Cost $95. Send check and SSSE to: Central PA Excursions, PO Box 145, White Deer, PA 17887. Contact Larry Maynard (570) 337-3979.

Jul 31 - Aug. 2 - IA posted 02/02 Appanoose County Railroad The First Iowa Division is hosting a 3-day fund raising event for the VFW of Centerville, IA. See the FID website for full as the Aug. 1st date will be non-NARCOA insured for providing rides to the public. NARCOA insured rides will be on Friday evening and Sunday morning. EC for this ride is Frosty Farrell. Contact Carl Schneider, 1302 6th Ave SE, Altoona, IA 50009-2002. 515-967-5181 (H) or 515-494-4401 (C)

Aug 1 - GA posted 05/03

Blue Ridge Scenic RR Blue Ridge to Ellijay - Supper stop 2nd trip. Price: $5 per car active Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad Volunteers. All others $10. No car limit but call/email if coming. EC’s Carl Hymen (706-455-0492) Barry Vincent.

Aug 1 - 2 - TX posted 06/16 Capitol Metro Transportation Llano to Scobee Spur - Approx. 54 miles RT or McDade to Giddings - approx. 44 miles RT. Actual location to be determined. Contact EC prior to run. This will be a cleanup ride. Fee: $30 membership to Railroad Partners, Inc. EC Leland Stewart 210-863-5397, Frank Glatzl.

Aug 14 - 16 - MT/WA/ID posted 06/17 Mission Mountain, Pend Oreille Valley, St. Maries River RR’s First set on Fortine MT - RT’s to Eureka and Stryker. Second set on Newport WA – RT to Metaline Falls. Third set on St. Maries ID – two RT’s to Plummer. Approximately 242 total miles. 30 car limit. This is a PRO excursion. Fee is $285. Contact is EC Will Krasselt. 208-310-1335. CO-EC is Bill Taylor.

Aug 15 - 16 - PA/NY posted 06/17 Lehigh Railway, Owego & Harford Railway Saturday, Lehigh Railway, Athens, PA to Myobeach, PA & return, approx 100 RT miles. Sunday, Owego & Harford Railway, Owego, NY to Harford, NY & return, approx 50 RT miles. Sunday lunch included. 25 car limit. This is a non-mentoring excursion. EC Rob Piligian. Fee $175.00.


Aug 17 - 20 - CO posted 01/30 Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad-3 foot Narrow Gauge Rocky Mountain Division of NARCOA is hosting a 4 day trip immediately following D&S RailFest between Silverton and the Animas Valley north of Durango in the spectacular San Juan Mountains. 203 miles round trip. Fee for all 4 days is $360. No mentoring. 20 car limit.. EC Philip Walters Phone (970) 946-3806


Aug 21 - 24 - CO/NM posted 01/30 Full - Wait list Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad-3 foot Narrow Gauge Rocky Mountain Division of NARCOA is hosting a 4 day trip between Chama, NM and Antonito, CO over Cumbres Pass and along the scenic Toltec Gorge. 217 miles round trip. Excursion fee for all 4 days is $350. No Mentoring. 20 car limit.. EC Philip Walters Phone (970) 946-3806

Aug 22 - IN posted 05/05 Indiana Railway Museum Great Lakes Railcars 50 mile round trip from Jasper to French Lick. Fee $70. For more information contact ECAndy Sargent 812-525-4856 Co-coordinator is Jim Dragstrem. Check payable to Great Lakes Railcars to Andy Sargent, 1435 Easy Street, North Vernon, IN 47265. Registration deadline is August 15th. No exceptions.

Aug 22 - WV posted 03/01 South Branch Valley Railroad Appalachian Rail Excursions - 102 miles - Petersburg to Greenspring and return passing the Potomac Eagle Scenic Train in the famous “Trough” home to the Bald Eagles. Friday afternoon and eve. Set-on. EC John Gonder

Aug 28 - 30 - IN/MI posted 01/01 Full – Waiting List Indiana Northeastern RR Great Lakes Rail Cars, Inc. is hosting a 2-day trip between Ashley, IN and Coldwater, MI. Approximately 150 miles round-trip. Excursion fee is $275.00 and includes overnight lodging in Coldwater, MI and more. 35 car limitEC is Michael P. Ford phone (317) 839-9320.


Sep 4 - 6 - SD posted 02/05 Black Hills Central Railroad The First Iowa Division is hosting a 3-day ride on the Black Hills Central Railroad at Hill City, SD. Full are on the FID website. EC for this ride is Dave Voeltz, 800 N. Harrison Ave, Pierre, SD. 57501. 605-224-2964

(H) / 605-280-5551 (C).

Sep 5 - 6 - PA posted 05/06 Steamtown National Historic Site Mid Atlantic Motorcar Association will be guests of Steamtown National Historic site in Scranton with up to a dozen of our cars representing NARCOA and you about our hobby and operating on their yard tracks at their Railfest 2014. EC’s Craig W. Hartman, Chris Vitz. .

Sep 10 - 13 - OR posted 03/03 Coos Bay Rail Link Scenic 235 RT miles. This is a PRO/MOW event. EC Bill Andrews,

Sep 11 - 30 - OR/WA/ID posted 03/05 2015 MOW/PRO TRI State Tour 1,131 miles on ten railroads Including the Joseph Branch, the Coos Bay Railroad and the Mt Rainier Scenic Railroad. The price, $1,660, includes some lodging. Most runs are two or three days. 30 car limit on MOW runs. EC’s Bill Andrews, Dave Balestreri, Rich Wilkins and Will Krasselt. Dave Balestreri.

Sep 12 - IA posted 06/02 Iowa Northern Railroad First Iowa Division ride between Waterloo and Cedar Rapids. Morning travel from Vinton to near Cedar Rapids, Waterloo in the afternoon. Mileage about 100, cost is $50. EC Carl Schneider, 1302 6th Ave SE, Altoona, IA 50009-2002 515-967-5181 (H) or 515-494-4401 (C)

Sep 12 - 13 - TX posted 06/16 Capitol Metro Transportation Llano to Scobee Spur - Approx. 54 miles RT or McDade to Giddings - approx. 44 miles RT. Actual location to be determined. Contact EC prior to run. This will be a cleanup ride. Fee: $30 membership to Railroad Partners, Inc. EC Leland Stewart 210-863-5397, Frank Glatzl.

Sep 18 - 20 posted 04/10 Leadville Colorado and Southern Railroad Leadville, Colorado, Rocky Mountain Division Fall Color Run, Various runs over three days. Cost To be determined. EC: Jerry Geiger

Sep 19 - 20 - NY posted 05/06 NYS&W Syracuse Branch Mid-Atlantic Motorcars will run app. 160 miles between Chenango Bridge and Syracuse . A truly


beautiful run. Cost for this is $175. ECs Chris Vitz, Craig Hartman.

Sep 22 - 23 - WA posted 03/06 Eastern Washington Gateway Railroad Set on in Wilbur. Tuesday - RT to Medical Lake. Wednesday - RT to Coulee City. Approximately 195 total miles. This is a PRO excursion and a leg of the MOW Tri-State Tour. No car limit. Excursion fee is $220. Contact is EC Will Krasselt. 208-310-1335.

Sep 24 - 27 OR posted 03 /25 Coos Bay Rail Link Scenic 235 RT miles. This is a PRO event. We have added a third run on this rail. EC Bill Andrews, .

Oct 2 - 4 - IA posted 02/21 Appanoose County Community Railroad The First Iowa Division ride between Centerville and Albia. We will run it Friday evening, Saturday, and Sunday morning. 65 miles Saturday trip, 40 miles Friday and Sunday rides. Cost $35. EC Frosty Farrell. Contact Carl Schneider, 1302 6th Ave SE, Altoona, IA 50009 515-967-5181 (H) or 515-494-4401 (C)

Oct 3 - DE posted 05/20 Wilmington & Western RR Multiple rides on this scenic line. Set-on will be in Hockessin, DE $30 per car. Jamie Haislip703-906-2502 Oct 4 - DE posted 05/20 Delaware Coast Line Lewes Branch from Georgetown,DE to Lewes, DE. We will cross the Atlantic Inter-coastal waterway on a swing bridge. 40 miles RT. $40 per car. Jamie Haislip 703-906-2502

Oct 3 - 4 - CO posted 03/19 Denver & Rio Grande RR South Fork. Rocky Mountain Division is hosting the annual Fall Colors excursion. 40 mile round trip each day. Mentoring welcome. Cost is $140 for both days. 1 day rate available. Checks written to R.M.D. EC Jon Keeling, P.O. Box 721, LaVeta Colo. 81055, John Spiro E.C. assisting

Oct 10 - 11 - WV posted 01/19 West Virginia Central RR Fall Festival of Leaves two day trip up Cheat Mountain and out to Tygart Junction Will meet Cass Scenic Shays on Mountain Route may vary due to scheduling of trains 195 Rt miles. Appalachian Rail

Excursions. John Gonder coordinator

Oct 16 - 18 - PA posted 02/27 Western New York & Pennsylvania Railroad Ohio Valley Railcars presents “Fall Color in Meadville”. Set on Friday night. Saturday: Meadville to Corry, then return 100 miles. Motorcars remain on the track overnight. Sunday: Meadville to Oil City and return; 60 miles. $120 per car. 30 car limit. EC Brian Davis

Oct 17 - MO posted 03/26 Columbia Terminal (COLT) Railroad The First Iowa Division ride Columbia and Centralia. Two round trips with a lunch break between runs. Total mileage is 74 miles. Cost $45 per car. EC Frosty Farrell. Contact Carl Schneider, 1302 6th Ave SE, Altoona, IA 50009-2002 515-967-5181 (H) or 515-494-4401 (C)

Oct 18 - MO posted 03/31 Ft. Leonard Wood Army Base Railroad The First Iowa Division. Two round trips. Mileage is 80. Cost $35. A security clearance form must be filled out in advance for everyone riding this excursion. Contact Carl for this form. EC for this ride is Frosty Farrell. Carl Schneider, 1302 6th Ave SE, Altoona, IA 50009-2002 515-967-5181 (H) or 515-494-4401 (C)

Nov 7 - 8 - GA posted 01/11 The Hartwell Railroad 220 RT Miles RT each day out of Bowersville, Ga. Our 3 year on the HRT. $155. All attendees must wear a reflectorized safety vest/shirt. No refunds after October 7, 2015. May reserve excursion via email. EC and affiliate Bobby Moreman.

Nov 7 - IA posted 02/02 Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad The First Iowa Division is hosting a 1-day ride on the former Ft.D.DM.&S line out of Boone, IA. Mileage for this excursion is 20 miles and we will ride the line three times during the day and possibly a night run. The cost is $20 per car plus membership in the Iowa Railroad Historical Society ($25). EC for this ride is Carl Schneider, 1302 6th Ave SE, Altoona, IA 50009-2002. 515-967-5181 (H) or 515-494-4401 (C).

Dec 5 - PA posted 02/10 Toys for Tots on the North Shore Railroad Approx 86 miles from Northumberland to Beach Haven and return. We will be collecting toys and donations for Toys for Tots along the right of way. Cost


$60 and at least 1 new, unwrapped toy. Send check and SSSE to: Central PA Excursions, PO Box 145, White Deer, PA 17887. Contact Larry Maynard (570) 337-3979.

Excursions Held On A Regular Basis

Feb 1, 2015 - Jan 31, 2016 - PA Northern Central Railroad Excursions on the Northern Central Railroad from New Freedom, Pa to York, Pa on various dates. E.C. Dean L. Grote call 717-637-7647 or e-mail for .

Feb 1, 2015 - Jan 31, 2016 - PA Stewartstown Railroad Excursions on the Stewartstown Railroad from New Freedom, Pa to Stewartstown, Pa on various dates. Northern Central Railcar Association E.C. Dean L. Grote call 717-637-7647 or e-mail for .

Feb 1, 2015 - Jan 31, 2016 - GA posted 01/28 Heart Of Georgia–West Railroad Southeast Railcar Operators, Inc. will be having NARCOA Motor Car runs and work days on the HOG West Railroad from Richland, Ga. to Omaha, Ga. on various dates. Contact Will Thompson E.C. 229-723-8231 Home or 229-359-5701 Cell Or Larry Crowe, E.C., Home 229-776-5882, Cell 229-326-3736.

Feb 1, 2015 - Jan 31, 2016 - GA posted 01/28 Cater Parrott Railnet SERO will be having motorcar car runs on the Cater

Parrott Rail net from Valdosta to Willacoochee and from from Madison to Newborn on various dates contact Will Thompson E.C. Home 229-723-8231 or Cell 229-359-5701

Jan 1, 2015 through Feb 1, 2016 - TX posted 09/05 Capitol Metro Transportation Railroad Partners, Inc. will host NARCOA motorcar runs from Llano, TX to Scobee Spur, TX – Approx. 54 miles RT. or McDade, TX to near Giddings, TX – approx 23 miles RT on various dates. (EC)Leland Stewart 210-863-5397

Feb 1, 2015 through Feb 1, 2016 - TX posted 01/11 Mississippi Delta Railroad SERO will be having NARCOA motorcar runs and work days on various dates on the Mississippi Delta RR between Swan Lake, Clarksdale and Lula Mississippi. Contact E.C. Chris Thompson, phone (251) 463-3270.

Feb 1, 2015 through Dec 31, 2015 - CA posted 02/03 Amador Central Railroad RRCHS will be having NARCOA Motor Car Runs open to all licensed motorcar operators and Work Parties from Ione to Martell on various dates throughout the year for members. Please contact EC Tom Correa for information and times/dates on the work parties and runs.


Suppliers If you are a supplier of motorcar parts and wish to be included here, please contact the Editor. No endorsement is made of the products, services, or vendors. All listings are for members’ consideration only, and are at the discretion of the Editor.

Carey Boney, [email protected] or Carey Boney, 1605 Powers RD. , Wallace, NC 28466 phone 910-285-7489. Engine parts for RQ,QBA,ROB,ODB, ROC and parts for F-4,C-5,F-6 and C-8 carburetors. Frame and some body parts.

Brown Railroad Equipment / Dan Brown, www.brownrr.com. 4 Amersham Court, Glen Carbon, IL 62034. (618) 288-6698. The entire remaining Fairmont factory inventory of motorcar parts was bought by Brown when Fairmont stopped making motorcars in the early 1990’s. Web site has NOS inventory look up by part number. Over 200 cars for sale. Se hable espanol.

Railroad Motor Car Resource Library / Doug Cummins, [email protected] 1146 W. 27th St. Independence, MO 64052-3222. Library of rail motorcar manuals, performance sheets, parts lists, maintenance instructions.

H & H Mfg. CO. [email protected] (707) 887-7181 Full service machine shop and manufacturer of af-ter-market Fairmont parts. Large supply of new and used Fairmont and Onan parts including transmissions, en-gines, brake and drive sprockets. Frame and aluminum door and side panels. Assorted rail motorcar project cars for sale.

Tom Falicon [email protected] 1227 Sawmill Creek Rd, Bryson City, NC 28713 ph: 828-488-8063 after six. Fairmont Billet Shift Knobs.

Fredericksburg Shops, [email protected] or www.fredericksburgshops.com or 209 Creamery Rd., Fred-ericksburg, Ohio 44627, phone: 330-465-0713 2PM-6PM Eastern time. Newly manufactured motor car parts and accessories. Many original producers identified, and their parts are again for sale. Shop also does car repair. Formerly Les King & Company.

Model T coils for 2-cycle cars Improved design Model T ignition coils for all Fairmont 2-cycle motorcar appli-cations. These coils are built inside of a sealed plastic weatherproof case with the proper wiring clips to match the timer clips. These are top quality USA made and will work on either 6 or 12-volt applications. No ballast resistor is required. $110.00 each. Please add $10.00 for shipping via priority mail. Randy Rundle, Fifth Avenue Antique Auto Part, 415 Court Street, Clay Center, KS 67432. phone 785-632-3450. fifthaveinternetgarage.com

L&S Speeder Repair and Restoration [email protected] 17504 438th Ave., Henry, SD 57243 phone (605)532-3470. Custom motorcar trailers - will build to your specifications.

Dave Myers at: [email protected] or 928-380-7056 MT-19 Temporary Axle splint. Fairmont transmission sprockets, and special sprockets of interest when re-powering a car with non Onan engines.

Tom Phair [email protected] phone (925) 820-4159 Complete line of the David Clark Company Intercom systems and railroad type Motorola Radios; new double chain sprocket kits, large inventory of NOS Fairmont parts. Some motorcars for sale.

Fairmont OEM seats. These are the original seats manufactured for Fairmont U.S. cars Black, folding tubular frame with walnut Naugahyde and dual density foam. The most comfortable seat you will ever find. $199.95 plus USPS shipping. Also available are seat backs, ($84.95) and seat cushions (@$99.95) and seat frames (@$117.00.) Call Clinton Andrews (313) 822-2000 or [email protected]. Note: Because of manufacturer’s price increases, this is the last batch at this price

NARCOA does not guarantee, certify or warrant that any mechanical equipment, modification, solution or device described in articles or advertise-ments in The SETOFF are safe or suitable for any member’s needs or purposes. Technical articles are provided for member’s consideration only.

Readers are advised to do their own due diligence to determine the safety and suitability of any such equipment, modification, solution, or device for their purposes, and are advised to seek outside expert advice.


NARCOA Company StoreNARCOA has combined everything into a one stop shopping location

for all your NARCOA gear. Please Contact Jaime Samuell Po Box 1219, Morehead, KY 40351. Tel. 740-427-4444

[email protected] to place order. Credit Card use is available.

Narcoa Safety Vest - $15.00 + S/H each in sizes M, L, XL, 2XL, and 3XL.

Reproduction Fairmont Data Plates - These plates fit on the engine cover. They are cor-rect for late 1930’s to late 1960’s cars. M9 M14 M19 S2 ST2 A3 A5 59C - maybe others. $6.00 per plate except Membership plate which is $3.00 + S/H.

Wheel Inspection Tools - The clear plastic wheel profile is necessary to determine if the wheel is flat, thin in the flange area, or has wear between the flange and the flat section of the tread. Use the wheel profile as your first step in diagnosing “hunting” on the rails. Use two of the clear plastic wheel profiles to determine track gauge. The stainless steel caliper is necessary to determine if you have the required 1/8” minimum wheel thickness.

One plastic wheel profile is $11 + S/H. Two plastic profiles are $17 + S/H. Stainless steel wheel calipers with laser printing (they’ll outlast your grandson!) are $30 each including+ S/H. One plastic profile and one stainless steel wheel caliper go for $35+ S/H. The new calipers have a bold mark at the 1/8” minimum. The new stainless steel calipers are shown below.

NARCOA Lanterns Trainman’s lanterns produced by Star Headlight and Lantern. They are the model 292, which features a bright halogen lamp along with a conventional bulb. A standard 6 volt lantern battery is required (not included). The body is orange plastic with the NAR-COA name, motorcar logo, and “Safety First” imprinted. The lamps are an effective tool for night signaling and make great presentation items for our railroad hosts. Cost is $29.00 each + S/H Special purchase - add $5.50 to each lantern purchased if you would like a D cell x 4 battery adapter which eliminates the need to use the 6 volt lantern battery. There is no ad-ditional shipping cost for these adapters when purchased with a lantern.

NARCOA now has an LED version of the lan-tern. The LED is brighter, lasts longer and uses less energy. Also increased vibration resistance will extend life of the LED bulb. LED version is $39.00 + S/H and comes in safety green. Regular lanterns are available is safety orange and yellow.