The #9 crew got together this last Saturday for our first working volunteer session of 2022. Unfortunately, Fletcher was not able to join us again, as he was attending a birthday party. But we continued our efforts to prepare the Tender for its first coat of paint. We fully removed the tarps that protected the Tender all winter. We also oiled the journal boxes, and strapped up loose chains and hoses so they wouldn’t drag when the tender is moved.

The #9 itself didn’t get much attention on this day, but we did oil the rods and some other moving parts in the event the loco gets moved. Finally, we inspected the #9’s window frames in the car shop. They are coming along nicely. We had an enjoyable day, and we are all excited to be back at work. Many thanks to Steve Pahl and Mike Laabs for all the hard work.

We are tentatively looking at our next volunteer session on Saturday, May 14. We will confirm that within the next couple of weeks, and hopefully we will see you there.

Jason Reiman