CUMBERLAND — The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad has canceled plans for an autumn return of its steam-powered locomotive.
"It is a disappointment," said John Garner, WMSR CEO. "However, we are all looking forward to having this magnificent locomotive back in service. We want to run it totally safe and we will take the extra time and do this the right way."
The cancellation will end plans for an autumn debut for steam-powered excursions to Frostburg to view fall foliage.
The railroad has been renovating its 1949 Baldwin steam locomotive No. 1309. In the meantime, the railroad has been using diesel engines to pull the excursion train.
The railroad has sold 80 tickets to date for excursions scheduled for the fall. The railroad had planned rides beginning in September, including a Trains Magazine Photo Freight Charter on Sept. 26. The railroad's website said the event was sold out.
As of Tuesday afternoon, autumn dates featuring steam were still for sale. The railroad has diesel locomotives available to pull the passenger cars.
Garner said more issues were found in the Chesapeake & Ohio 2-6-6-2 No. 1309 as the locomotive was being torn down for maintenance.
"We discovered more flaws in the metals that make up the locomotive," said Garner. "It's a domino effect. By the time you take apart the gears and disassemble it all the way down you see the full extent."
Garner said only one company in the eastern United States, located in Tennessee, is authorized to work on steam locomotives. Repairs must be completed to Federal Railroad Administration standards.
"We have arranged with the company that does this type of work to have our axles taken care of," said Garner. "We could get it running and take it up (on excursions in the fall) and then have to take it down again in a couple months and make the repairs. But if we are going to do it we may as well do it right."
Garner said the repairs should take two to three months. He plans to have the steam locomotive ready for excursion in early 2018.
"We will offer (steam powered excursion) ticket holders first chance at reservations for excursions in 2018." said Garner. "We want these repairs done right so we won't need them done for another 15 years."
Garners said the train will continue to be renovated while the axles and wheels are worked on.
"That way when we get the wheels back we can basically just put it together in four or five days," said Garner.
Tickets holders for 2017 may request a refund, according to the railroad. For additional information, contact the WMSR at 301-759-4400
