After some forum searching, I assume all 8 of the B30-7's were repainted BN and sold by BNSF in the late 90's-early 2000's.
Is there anyone who can tell me if any of the former Frisco B30-7's still exist? I have 3 Bachman, B30-7's (each lettered as Santa Fe 350). I would like to repaint & letter at least one of them in my custom "State Line Railroad" scheme. I'm wondering if it would be possible for a modern short line to purchase a former FRISCO B30-7 and fully restore it.
Okay, I'm not one for spreading rumors. I don't know about this, but I've heard it from quite a few old hoggers who take care of the SP engine here in SA at the downtown station. There is, in immaculate and operating condition, a FRISCO 2-8-2, hidden in a secure place in San Antonio. The engine is being held for parts just in case they ever bring the SP engine back to life. I cannot verify this, but will try to find out...Again, I'm not trying to stir any rumors.
Is there any Frisco power in operation that hasn't been repainted with another roadname? Steam or diesel?
Manny, I think someone maybe pulling your leg. I don't really see how one could hide a Frisco 2-8-2 without some of us knowing it. It would be cool if it was true, but if it is true why dose the group just not run the Frisco steamer? I'd hate to see a Frisco steamer being used as parts to keep any engine going. It would be like poor UP 838 which is used as a parts source for UP 844. Ship it on the Frisco!!! Murphy Jenkins P.S. If for some reason this is true, I apologize for discrediting those who guard the engine.
I, for one, salute Tom for splendid use of the word "hokum." I need to use that more often. A much more tasteful way of referring to nonsense than the masculine-bovine phrase that I typically hear (or use) in similar circumstances.
No, and this is probably the biggest reason a lot of Frisco fans don't like BN. Instead of just patching an engine and waiting a while to paint it (like most RR's, there are still SEVERAL engines roaming in BN green or ATSF colors with a patch and the merger was 16 years ago) the BN wiped out about every trace of the Frisco as fast as they could. I think by the end of 1982 there was no engines or cabooses in Frisco paint left running on the BN. The merger date was November 21, 1980. Ethan
The thing I hated the most about the Big Nothing was the way they tore down all of the Frisco depots and buildings. When my parents and I toured the whole Frisco system, I think we found less than 24 depots still standing.
I know 1522 doesn't run any more but I thought there might me something out there somewhere still running with Frisco on the side...especially steam. Wasn't there a 1630 or something like that in operation somewhere? As for BN tearing down Frisco buildings, a story I've heard mentioned that the reason the Sulligent, AL depot was torn down was that it blocked motorists view of oncoming trains at the crossings. Maybe someday, I'll get up the nerve to attempt to build a model. It would certainly be a challenge: http://www.frisco.org/vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=7603&d=1236284853
1630 is still getting worked on last I checked at the Illinois Railroad Museum. It should be operating soon though. It can't work on any mainlines due to its oversized wheels(due to the fact it was coverted from Russian 5' gauge) so it will only operate on the museums tracks. Ship it on the Frisco!!! Murphy Jenkins
No doubt, 1630's extra-wide tires would preclude its use over territory with self-guarded frogs and switch-point guards, but I suspect that the high cost of insurance and the locomotive's 52" drivers (read slow operating speed) are the main reason why it stayed on Museum rails. I got to see it pass through Rosedale on it's way to Chicago. The train consisted of a Geep on the point, a twin bay hopper, the 1630, a twin bay hopper, and a wide-vision caboose. As I recall, the Frisco placed a 10 mph restriction on the movement, so it was a long trip from Oklahoma.
Manny, I have heard the EXACT SAME THING, In fact, I have heard there is one here, and another one being purchased from somewhere, and my source is pretty reliable. He is only the best BRASS GURU in San Antonio, and head of the restoration committee. He is like the Mr. Chambers of this Geographical Location. And I am impressed with the knowledge both Mr. Chambers and this guy have about railroads in General, Especially the FRISCO!
I would be surprised if any of the Frisco (AT&N) originals are still out there. Don't know for sure, though... Best Regards,
Just wondering if anyone has been thru Rolla lately? I went thru last year and drove by where I swear 2-8-2 Frisco 1501 was and it isn't there anymore. Could this be the mystery unit now in Texas?