Western Railroad Discussion > Quick update on diesel maintenance at OERM (SCRM) 10/17/20

We had five volunteers out yesterday working on both the USAF 1601 and SF FM #560. Carl and Frank prepared the 1601 to be jacked up again. We have to change one of the traction motors and install some newly arrived parts. Once this is done, the locomotive can be used to for switching cars at the museum. The 80 tonner needs some cosmetic work but is actually in pretty good shape as it is.
Tom spent some more time removing paint from the exterior of the locomotive. Between Carl and Tom, most of the old paint has now in the trash cans. Our efforts at paint removal exposed the remnants of the original silver "zebra strips". We measured the width of the stripes and it was slightly more than 8 inches.
Tim and Bob used an air scraper on the blower housing to remove caked oil and dirt. The prime moved is covered with this oily mixture and will take much time and patience to remove! Stay tuned!!

Thanks for the update!

John Acosta
Palm Springs, CA