Dead line downsizing

Just like the real railroads on the slow track to economic recovery, I too have found it necessary to liquidate certain motive power assets. As more and more inactive locomotives lined my prototypical dead line (a yard track designated for loco storage), the accountants soon advised me to part ways with some idled power.

Weaver SD40-2 on the dead line.
See the November 2010 issue of CTT for details

To raise enough capital to purchase new fuel-sipping workhorses, my operation elected to purge high-mileage Lionel Dash 9 (AC4400) and older surplus SD40-2 units. Railroad leasing businesses in Milwaukee, San Diego, and Canada were the first to secure power on auction, but others are certain to bid in the world's largest "yard" sale. For replacement units, Canadian National has already delivered Lionel SD70M-2s, while Canadian Pacific Rwy. has its sights set on new Lionel ES44 Evolution Hybrid power.

Canine conductors

My four-legged pet pals have always been interested in the sounds and smells of the train room – even though they could never actually see the trains! But in October, our elder dog (16-1/2 years) Cinder let us know that it was time to retire from regular service and a lifetime of unwavering companionship. He was my first and dearest rescue dog who gave us so many great memories. We’ll miss him, but Trax (background) was a diligent understudy and he clearly has a nose for the railroad biz!