Even stuffed and mounted is better than scrapping, but to restore it to service? That's EXPENSIVE and they have to move it first. The great gang in NM restoring ATSF 2926 have been at it for many years. I wonder how much they have invested so far?
There seem to be an increasing number of restored and operable steam locomotives that aren't running or rarely run because of insurance expense, refusal by railroads and Amtrak to host runs and the high cost of maintenance and operation. Groups get starry-eyed with visions of their engine on the high iron, while overlooking the destiny of others. Seems wasteful to charge ahead with another rebuild when serviceable locomotives sit. Just my $0.02.
Have to admit as much as I love to see steam brought back to life, I agree that it's not the wisest use of preservation funds these days.
