The locomotive, which test fired last September, will be wheeled soon and following work to install brake gear will start making test runs in late February and early March, Garner said.
The $2.4 million project was delayed multiple times as the cost of the project grew from an early $800,000 estimate and funding lagged behind. Work resumed last spring, but was hampered after it was discovered that a former railroad employee had stolen and scrapped critical parts.
Garner also said the engine would be the largest operating steam locomotive in the world in daily service but went on to mistakenly say that would hold true until Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014 operates in 2020. UP plans to run No. 4014 starting in May 2019.
Nevertheless, a native Appalachian articulated operating on a regular basis will be a big attraction for the railroad. No. 1309 will be unique among operating steam locomotives in the U.S. She was designed to haul heavy coal trains out of West Virginia coal mines when placed in service in 1949. When restoration is complete, No. 1309 will be the only operating compound-mallet style locomotive east of the Mississippi River. A 1309 Club has been created to find 200 donors interested raising the money and finishing the engine. To help, see, wmsr.com/support-co-1309-restoration/
