Bobby Ogage posted:Pessimism presumes people are not knowledgeable about what they do and plan to do. I am confident that the folks who will operate the 1309 know what they are doing.
The "people who will operate the 1309" are NOT the issue. The boiler work and running gear work, have been, and are being accomplished by outside EXPERT contractors. Thus, you are trying to compare apples to oranges.
I have restored two vehicles that were made long before I was born. I learned and gained skills as I went through the process. I am sure the folks building the 1309 will also learn as they go.
Congratulations, except antique vehicles do NOT fall under Federal Railroad Administration regulations & specifications! Pretty much ANY mechanical savvy person could restore a motor vehicle, over time. That, however, is NOT the case with steam locomotive boilers and running gear.
