Is a Full Restoration of N&W

Hey folks! As alot of you probably know, I have a major heart for 1218, and the belief that he can be restored to operation in our modern day. This video explains why I think so, and some of the major things required to do so. As always, I hope you Enjoy!
Find me on Instagram: Steel_Beasts_Of_NW

[@Venem1975]

I would love to see a FULL 4014 Style rebuild of not just 1218 but the sole surviving Y6a locomotive. But that is just me. What do you think?

[@SteelBeastsOfNW]

It is possible, alot like 1218's is. Just have to find a place and time for it.

[@stevew270]

The MOT has no plans on restoring 2156, it would be a huge endeavor plus 2156 has a cracked frame.

[@SteelBeastsOfNW]

@@stevew270 that is a good point.

[@ThatHuntsvilleRailfan]

​@@stevew270 if the t1 trust could build a new t1 frame from SCRATCH so can they.

[@stevew270]

@@ThatHuntsvilleRailfan It's possible of course but not likely, me and I'm sure most others would just like to see 1218 run again, don't really care about building a new one.

[@OwlEye2010]

If 4014 and 1309 were able to be restored to operating condition, so could 1218!

[@juliansprott90]

If a totally brand new Peppercorn A1 4-6-2 (60163 Tornado) can be built here in the UK, I’m sure the same level of expertise can be put to good use on this loco’s restoration.

[@rearspeaker6364]

5 years and 20million, it CAN be done!

[@randyrobey5643]

You beat me to saying this. Surely sponsors can be found.

[@James-Railyard]

I mean, we have a group building a brand new Pennsy T1 (4-4-4-4) from the rails up and they’re doing good so far. The problem is most C1 railroads here in America just don’t have much faith in having steam engines running. The UP owns their engines but the rest of them are owned by other companies so insurance and fueling will be expensive.

[@katerinakittycat3849]

@@James-Railyard and a good question is where is that thing going to run once it's finished

[@QuincyO5b]

@@katerinakittycat3849 its most likely to run excursions in PA and even around horseshoe curve

[@PRR5406]

I have personally had a long conversation with one of the men in charge of the NS steam program. 1218 has all its necessary parts and they are stored inside the empty boiler. Rebuilding her for operation is actually over half-way completed, although I am certain a complete review of the boiler steel will be made using U/T technology. This locomotive sits in the Transportation Museum looking cosmetically fine, but a total rebuild will require an infusion of about $1.5M . Absolutely worth it in my opinion, as she's so modern and so unusual. Use her for freight specials on a regular basis and allow her to build publicity while earning her keep. She's way too large for passenger operations, but to pull heavy freight, she's way above ready to roll. SItting her as a 'stuff and mount" is a terrible waste of a nearly perfect machine. RUN HER!

[@trime1851]

When her rebuild was halted, I remember reading that the new boiler tubes were sold for scrap. That would have to be remade. I don't know if all the documentation was saved or not. And after 28 years, nobody who worked on her is still available. There will be a big learning curve.

[@railfanmaximstill7279]

We said that about 4014 and look what we got

[@williamclarke4510]

​@@railfanmaximstill7279 That's on the Union Pacific, where management wholeheartedly supports the steam program.

[@1940limited]

1218 pulled plenty of passenger excursions when restored. I think UP's Big Boy was around the 2 million dollar mark. Even R&N's 2102 soaked up 2.4 million. Anything's possible with enough money. Money will move mountains.

[@williamclarke4510]

@@railfanmaximstill7279 4014 was restored by an organization that has been around for decades and has an excellent reputation. The Virginia Museum of Transportation couldn't even run one if their own excursions. They had to get the Ft. Wayne Railroad Historical Society to run an excursion that the VMT was obligated to run in northern Virginia. They couldn't even staff their own excursion train. The 611's fund raising campaign was far from its goals until the NS Foundation sold a Rothko painting from their collection and donated a substantial amount of it to the Fire Up 611 Campaign. The VMT board is full of economic development clowns from the Chamber of Commerce who hate railfans, in my opinion.

[@user-hb7pg4tf8m]

I agree to all of that! Those are great positive thoughts on 1218! She deserves another chance to run again!

[@robertmohler9131]

As long as there is enough coal left for her to remain a coal burner, I'm all for it

[@Farm_fab]

You are correct on 1218 being a SHE.

[@katerinakittycat3849]

If 611 can run again so can 1218

[@williamclarke4510]

​@@katerinakittycat3849 Whaaat,? Run where? The Roanoke has almost no interest in rail History, except for what tourist capital it brings you Downtown Roanoke.

[@katerinakittycat3849]

@@williamclarke4510 I honestly don't know but 1218 has to be repaired before they can figure that out

[@SOU6900]

If a Big Boy can be brought back to working condition, then I see no reason why 1218 couldn't be brought back as well. I really would like to see her back in action again. I've heard the stories of when NS brought her through Goldsboro NC and the issues that came with it, but I'd love to see her come through here again.

[@gamerfan8445]

The difference is that 4014 is owned by a class one. Meanwhile 1218 is stuck on short lines.

[@Willysmb44]

I have seen 1218 under steam and ridden behind her. I'd sure love to do both again. Given all the "that'll never happen" projects that have come to pass in recent years, I wouldn't bet against 1218 steaming again someday

[@1940limited]

"A Big Boy will never run again." How many times did we heart that?

[@skunkhoggerps-494]

Right on brother. What's needed is a Fifteen Year inspection of the boiler shell. Then, it's time to replace the tubes and flues sheets, firebox sheets too. The last time I saw Her was in the shop at Birmingham, the smokebix door was open. All her guts were out. If memory serves me right. That's actually great as all of that would now need replacing, per the Fifteen Year Rule. I'll always LOVE THAT WHISTLE.

[@rudycarlson8245]

@@1940limited I will remember hearing about that Union Pacific 4000 would never run again! I want to say that those doubters what are you gotta say now eh?

[@1940limited]

All it takes is enough money. Money will move mountains. @@rudycarlson8245

[@davidng2336]

The biggest obstacle on getting 1218 back is replacing all of the missing parts that were removed from its incomplete overhaul, in addition to potential places where it could run. But never say never!

[@bov634]

I'd say having a place to run it would be more challenging. Especially because of the number of cars needed to pull to break even.

[@joenewstead4848]

Most of the parts were retured after NS Found them in storage in a warehouse of theirs. They would have to replace the front tube sheet. But the thing is were are they gonna run it?

[@RailPreserver2K]

It's not only where could they run it but who would allow them to, Amtrak is completely empty anti Steam and NS doesn't even have a steam program anymore

[@davidng2336]

@@RailPreserver2K I wouldn't say Amtrak is completely against steam. Besides, if they were, why would they help out ATSF 3751?

[@rearspeaker6364]

@@joenewstead4848 one place it can run, with permission: horseshoe curve.

[@vettebecker1]

Would love to see this beautiful articulated locomotive back under steam!! Since she would have to be completely overhauled, would be cool to see the locomotive and tender get roller bearings

[@gretchenchadwick8343]

I and my son say with God all things are possible 🙏, if he wants that to happen then it will and he cares about what we care about. And my son recommends FMW Solutions to help in the restoration of 1218 because steam locomotive restoration is one of their primary functions and my son is overjoyed whenever a steam locomotive is restored to operation and he has DVD 📀 of when 1218 operated in Excursion service from 1987 to 1991 and really hopes and prays 🙏 that it will be restored to operation again real soon.

[@joenewstead4848]

Correction. Most of the parts were retured after NS Found them in storage in a warehouse of theirs. They would have to replace the front tube sheet. SHE actually in good shape. Originally they were gonna restore 1218 before 611. But the cost if it was larger then expected and 611 was somewhat cheaper.

[@timl6039]

Yea nah bruh. 611 went first bc of her… as they put it “star power” the big phallic shaped locomotive would garnish more public attention. Contrary to what autistic mcFoamer mouth spouted off, All of her accessories are either on the locomotive, or safely stored at VMT. The locomotive is moved/lubricated at least once a year by the Roanoke Chapter of the NRHS. And I’m not sure where he got this “re-rolling of the boiler” nonsense…. It needs a front flue sheet, ultrasound, if that’s good, it needs flues, and a hydrostatic test.

[@majik2465]

Longing to see #1218 run again! Although you refer to this locomotive as "him" or "his", we true fans refer to this locomotive as "her"

[@robkrasinski6217]

Did you know that the title Herr in German is actually for a man, it means mister or sir. It's pronounced hair. Frau is the title for a married woman and Fraulein for an unmarried woman.

[@ChargerusPrime]

In truth, it'd only take 2 or 3 to rebuild her completely to current FRA standards for steam operations. The biggest problem is as you said, funding. If NS would pull their heads out of their exhaust ports, to put it WAY too nicely, it could be done a lot sooner. I think 1218 is a perfect candidate for restoration most especially with 4014 back out runnin around and with 3985 slated to return.

[@nickdeluna8681]

It'll be great to see the N&W 1218 to get back on the rails again. Been a huge fan of steam locomotives since I was a kid.

[@jimsippel6567]

I’m glad to see this. I was on an excursion trip in 1987. Jax to Valdosta. Great trip. Did the 611 in 88.

[@caydenworley5002]

Lots of people say it’s not possible for 1218 to run again because from a rumor I’ve heard that her frame is badly damaged. But I completely believe she can live again, since her size can’t be an issue since UP 4014 is much larger and the only real issue would be what railways she could go in, for example she probably could go to Strausburg but there’s no way to tell if she would be able to successfully traverses the tracks.

[@robertmohler9131]

How did her frame get damaged?

[@robertmohler9131]

And why would she need a new bell and headlight?

[@overpoweredsteamproduction513]

The damaged frame you’re missing up with N&W 2156

[@603rail]

@Plumgoldfish129 the only reason 611 could run on strasburg is due to it being a very modern design, which includes roller bearings on each axles making it very lightweight. 1218 would crush the rails.

[@Motoskichimo1974]

If restored, she would have to go run with the UP engines. As that seems to be the only place that can take her weight.

[@aj.2004]

Any locomotive can be restored, but you have to factor in funds, labor (on top of insurance and all sorts of other issues), plus where is it going to run? That’s a current issue with 611. I’d love to see 1218 run but circumstances would really need to change for a restoration as big as the 1218 to be a reality.

[@reyhanedmond5843]

Maybe 611 would run in Southern canada

[@MackeyBigBoy4014]

It would have to follow certain Canadian railroad rules.

[@Dallen9]

The sound of her whistle can always be heard but the sounds of her roaring down the track are but a distant memory. We need a gear shift in the way we're doing this.

[@steamgent4592]

1218 was halfway done a overhaul. Its just a matter of boiler shell and sheet testing and finally new tubes and stays if the ultra sound is passed. 611 needed to be gutted to be rebuilt 1218 is already gutted and just waiting for some love.......

[@Railfan-uf9mw]

You know when it comes to steam restoration nothing is impossible you have to put a lot of emphasis into it a lot of willpower and determination so I believe it’s not impossible to restore 1218!

[@williamclarke4510]

What will power and determination?

[@robkrasinski6217]

Why would they restore 1218 if there wouldn't be any place to run it? The NS excursion days are over again. NS is now focused on moving freight and cutting costs. The 21st Century program was Wick Moorman's thing.

[@Railfan-uf9mw]

@@robkrasinski6217 your such a hater one day they will and a Railfan doesn’t expect right or wrong good or bad it’s just not the right time right now

[@williamclarke4510]

@@Railfan-uf9mw you obviously know nothing about the VMT. Exactly what have you ever done there any way? "Railfans are treated as if They are the unwashed." ( Smell bad). commented a former V M T vice president. Link didn't like the VMT. That's why his photos are not at the VMT. At the so called members meeting, the head of the museum board membership committee told us "Theoretically the membership may nominate board members.". "If Eugene Elliott was to die, I'd like to be the first one to spit in his grave." commented another, referring to the head of the collections committee. "I hate him more than you do." I replied. Another person snickered "I think a whole lot of people would like to be at the head of that line.".

[@RedReaper303]

@@williamclarke4510 That's why I wished I was in one of those meetings. Whole lot of politics going around in VMT.

[@steamenginefan100]

It is 100% possible if we only had people who were in government and the heads of railroad companies (Class 1s) that were pro steam and didn’t see it as a liability and a waste of money

[@davidrubin8228]

Agreed. In fact UP is I believe the ONLY Class 1 to still have a steam program and be damn proud of it!

[@evanstauffer4470]

@@davidrubin8228 And yet they just gave away half of their steam fleet to an organization which does not have the "deep pockets" that UP does. It will be interesting to see what happens next.

[@gordonsnell6735]

I think it would be very cool if they can get 1218 restored & running again, would LOVE to hear her whistle again

[@user-xq5ys3sx7r]

I would love to see 1218 roll again, and I hope my Uncle David would let me know when he’s steaming again like he used to do from 1987-1991. I want him to chug back into Columbus Ohio, which is my home town.

[@uniontrains.8631]

My heart says yes. It needs to happen. Bring her back to life and let her roam free.

[@calvinrhoades4406]

It sure would be great to see her run again!!!!

[@WorldOfNothin]

The way I look at it the big issues really come down to money, time, a group dedicated to it's restoration, and a purpose to have it restored. That means having solved PTC issues and being allowed to run on the mainline without disrupting normal operations. N&W 611 is already facing this problem, only having a few chances to operate, thanks to scenic railroads or museums with space to run it. If a group can build a Pennsylvania Railroad T1 from the ground up, fixing an already built locomotive that is just missing parts should in theory be a lot cheaper and easier to do.

[@reidthenavyengineproductio7002]

He’s right, unless if the Virginian Museum Of Transportation Let’s us Know the Missing Parts, And New-Scratched build ones as well. 1218, with a lot a work, will come back to steam if followed correctly.

[@RedRiverRailfan]

Though I agree that 1218 should see a new life, some (if not all) things mentioned in this video are based squarely on the opinion and know-how of a railfan. Some things do not really need replacement or total refurbish, such as her bell, whistle and tender. The tender may need some minor adjustments, but a total rebuild of something similar to a glorified coal-hopper is just too much to ask for in a restoration of the type. Though those sorts of things may need to be tended to eventually, they are things that are not crucial to seeing 1218 back on the rails. I believe that the best, and most-likely, course for 1218 would be that a non-profit or museum purchases her and gets her back to operable condition. Then they can begin operating services while the hype is fresh and foamers abundant so that they can achieve the funds needed to pursue new auxiliary equipment and eventually PTC for mainline operation. However, given the current economic and social state of the US, it is not very likely that a group or company will be willing to pursue such a monumental task, especially considering that 1218 is way too big to operate on most tourist lines in the US. Don't get me wrong, I would love to see 1218 return to service, but do keep in mind that it takes a big risk to bring back big things. Great video my friend!!

[@B-and-O-Operator-Fairmont]

We are also at a point where hardly anyone remembers the "good old days" of steam. GP40's are considered antiques now.

[@michigandon]

@@B-and-O-Operator-Fairmont Heck, I know people who reminisce about the "good ol' days" of the Claytor-era, pre-Dismal Swamp NS steam program! I guess I'm actually one of them

[@dudester7876]

Just because some of the parts are as old as the locomotive doesn't mean that they need to be replaced because they are probably still serviceable and could be rebuilt. And another question I have for is why do you think the bell needs to be replaced that one just sounded a little bit crazy to me. There are a bunch of other steam locomotives out there that are still running with pretty much all the same parts that came with the locomotive when it was delivered. Take Cass scenic railroad shay #5 it was built in 1905 and it's still running with it's original boiler and most of its original running gear.

[@SteelBeastsOfNW]

The way I had meant it was for precautionary measures. The locomotive has been barely moved for years.

[@georgecarter838]

Is it possible to rebuild 1218? Yes. The real issue is trying to find a major railroad that will even agree to let it run on it.

[@user-pp1ni2jy3f]

WMSR #1304, covers the NE railfan area, and #576 is progressing nicely for a 2024 rollout. Of course, the queen #611, is THE ambassador of NS. UP #4014 is now the big kahuna of steam in the U.S. So, there is no chance for #1218 within our lifetimes.

[@louistallarigo5589]

This is interesting as a lifelong steam fan and fan of 1218. I do have some comments though. NCTM does not to my knowledge have the space to restore an engine of 1218's size. Silvis would be the best place in my opinion due to the size of their shop but they have their hands full currently with 5511 and 3985. If it were to happen, it would be similar to 611's restoration in the fact it was funded through donations but likely without help from NS. As much as I would love to see the 1218 run in my lifetime, it will either fall into the traps that the 1309 crew fell into or not happen at least for the near and foreseeable future.

[@1940limited]

If UP can restore a Big Boy, I'm sure 1218 can be done, too. It wouldn't be the first big steamer brought back to life.

[@MackeyBigBoy4014]

Where would it run?

[@evanstauffer4470]

4014 had a very wealthy anonymous donor who paid for the restoration. Where will the money for 1218 come from - 75,000 $20 donations. I'm not "hating"; I would love to see her run. But there is a lot more involved than just the mechanics of it.

[@MySteamChannel]

This Aussie would love to see 1218 born again!

[@RosaFan161]

I would love to see 1218 run again, as one of the lucky railfans that got the chance to see #611 return to Roanoke under power in 2015. I've watched several videos of 1218 in excursion service lately, and would love to see the locomotive run again in person.

[@davidrubin8228]

I have followed sporadically the 1218 over the years and here are my thoughts. 1) IF she is in good condition and partially rebuilt, the full rebuild CAN be done. As recently as 1 year ago the Santa Fe 2926 was rebuild and had made her first major run in NM. It took donations and 20 years of hard work but it WAS DONE! 2) I too have heard of major problems but mostly with her boiler. This would have to be inspected and brought up to standards. 3) As for fundraising, right now the T1 Trust is building an exact replica of the PRR T1. The Trust is doing this because like the Peppercorn folks in the UK, there is NO example left and they have had a great campaign going to fund the work. 4) There are enough facilities that can handle the work to be done but I would STRONGLY recommend NOT asking NS for ANY help. Except for the UP, most railroads do not care to help, do not have the time (although have the $$) and with changes in management, blow hot and cold about keeping what they privately deem (useless). 5) It has been a dream of the Virginia Museum of Transport to run the 611 with the 1218 and in fact, the Museum was (and may still be) looking to build a Lubidorium where the 1218 and the 611 can be stored and maintained. Money can come from all sources and people who have contributed to this stream might be able to contribute small sums and get other railroad fans to do the same. Once a program is begun and is pushed it is amazing to see who comes on board so to speak. And finally, I would LOVE to see "The Tooter" back in service. Such a grand engine needs to be restored to the rails. Thank you for your video!

[@jcalpha2717]

B & M 3713 is currently being rebuilt at steamtowm in Scranton, PA. I see several others being given a second chance also.

[@frankmanigault5408]

Its possible to give 1218 a complete Class 5 overhaul, including the tender,

[@b3j8]

Yes it's possible but in my opinion unlikely. As it stands, NS could obviously care less as they were negligent in simply keeping track of the engine's parts.

[@SteelBeastsOfNW]

Thats accurate. But the real issue is this: the actual push to do it.

[@b3j8]

@@SteelBeastsOfNW Here's another part of the problem. I've talked to NS Railroaders that see the other side of this story in terms of the huge amount of labor, the logistics, interference w/priority train traffic, and on and on. They make a legitimate point regardless of whether us fans agree.

[@SteelBeastsOfNW]

Of course, logistics are an issue nowadays with anything. But using their brains, if it were to ever happen, theyd figure it out.

[@b3j8]

@@SteelBeastsOfNW Yep, I agree. Just thought I'd say that many Railroaders look at this in a totally different way than we do.

[@louislamonte334]

Good heavens, I hope so!!

[@michaelcolucci5734]

I 1000% agree with you the 1218 is now currently in a state where she is in need of a massive overhaul to ensure it’s longevity but if someone has the funds for it and start an organization like 611 she could definitely return to the mainline but she will need like you said PTC in order for her to do excursions but regardless I definitely see this locomotive getting restored in the future!

[@richardperry5743]

I was a car host behind 1218, she was and still is a beautiful machine. She put on a great performance, the folks that were trackside were in awe, as well as the passengers on the train! I say absolutely find the way to bring her back & once again let her thrill yet another generation of railfans! I saw the A class & Y class locomotives when I was a child, been a railfan ever since!

[@davidrubin8228]

PTC is now de rigueur on any steam locomotive that travels the mainline. I know for a fact that SF 3751 and UP 4014 have PTC as does SF2926. Yes, they had to do some careful adjustments but it was done and now these three engines (when they can get on main line) get on mainline.

[@michaelcolucci5734]

Yes that is exactly correct because if you think about it these big steamers are technically landlocked without this technology witch is now mandatory for mainline steam locomotives but I hope and pray to god either more steamers get this technology installed or have Amtrak and Norfolk Southern be more lenient with mainline steam excursions and private trips!

[@fernandoqueirozpopovic7024]

It is possible absolutely, unfortunately it will be extremely expensive and a lot of custom oarts will have to be re made.

[@danielrichter5066]

I am sure that for several dump trucks of cash it could be rebuilt. It is a beautiful locomotive. The really big issue is: Where are you going to run it? They did a beautiful job resorting 611 but can only shuffle it back and forth at Spencer, maybe 1 mile. It spent a season at Strasburg where it could run over 5 or 6 miles but only at about 15 mph. Insurance costs are would be outrageous and the mainline railroads are a business not interested in rail fans all over their infrastructure.

[@pestilentwinds]

With enough money, a restoration is undoubtedly possible. The availability of funds dictates the speed of the restoration. The bigger problem is having somewhere to run it. There is unlikely to be main line access, so it would be relegated to short lines, and how many short lines want or can handle such a huge locomotive on their rails?

[@richardthomas4716]

Don't forget the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway that runs from Nelsonville, OH to Logan, OH. Only issue may be the track.

[@DanielPRails]

I would absolutely love to see 1218 running again however I think a larger obstacle in todays day and age would be where the locomotive could actually run. Im not saying it wouldn’t be great but spending all of that hard work, money and time just to see it go back and forth over the same few miles at a place like Strasburg seems somewhat wasteful. It would be great to see 1218 back out on the mainline but I think that is just a dream.

[@vaborn6457]

The 611 Starting in Oct till Nov 2023 (2) two a day runs, the Virginia Scenic Railway along with the VTM will now be running the 611 departing Goshen, Va back to Staunton reversing back to Goshen, Va with the addition of (2) added diesels. This is on the former CSX now Buckingham Branch line. I guess someone found a nice way to tell NS to maybe 'stick it' and the 611 will run here in Va again???

[@rearspeaker6364]

and NS will watch how it goes too.

[@bear470]

If a brand new pennsylvania rairoad t1 can be built from the ground up, restoring the 1218 is more than possible

[@guywoolman535]

All it takes is money, facility, dedication and talent.

[@rearspeaker6364]

@@guywoolman535 and is exactly what the T1 trust has done.

[@skunkhoggerps-494]

She's actually in near perfect shape for restoration. The last time I saw 1218 she was in the Steam Shop in Birmingham, Alabama. The Smokebox door was open, and all her boiler guys were out. Tubes, flues, tube sheets and firebox. All out. Thats actually a good thing, as those parts would need to be replaced now, per the Fifteen Year Inspection Rules. If a Big Boy can be brought back to life, why not the great N&W Class A? I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THAT BEAUTIFUL WHISTLE!!

[@williamclarke4510]

Because the UP strongly supports Their steam program. Norfolk Southern is hostile to a steam program.

[@Jcus10iscool]

She would also need a new N&W hooter due to WMSR 1309 using her current whistle

[@bov634]

They have a complete set of drawings for the class a. Parts can be made, money can be raised but where will it run? She would need to pull big trains to recoup operating costs. If I won the lottery and had a railroad 1218 would be under steam.

[@TranscontinentalRailfan]

I think a 2nd rebuild of N&W 1218 to operation is possible. Regardless of what happens to class one railroads, more steam mainline steam operators are being invited by short lines and tourist railroads. PRR 1361, PRR 5550, NC&StL 576, Reading 2100, NKP 765, N&W 611 are either already or gonna operate excursion trains on short lines and tourist railroads. PTC/Cab signals are not required on short lines. For years, there is a big appetite for 1218 to operate excursion trains again.

[@michigandon]

I think I was on that train shown at the very beginning!

[@redsignal3866]

Big locomotives like the 1218 may take a few years, but it would definitely be worth it.

[@SleeTheSloth]

I agree. and O how I dream of it. :)

[@darknessfalls_hellfire2551]

It is possible for n&w 1218 to go under a restoration if the money is raised for it. And another thing N&W 1218 is a soul survivor of the A Class of its kind. So it would be great to see 1218 back in on the tracks again with N&W 611. It can be done hack there doing it with a prr t1. So why couldn't N&W 1218 get another chance at running it would be cool to see her on the tracks it can be done

[@melissakarl]

When I grow up I want to work on 844 steam train, but that being said if the all mighty 1218 comes back I'm driving it no matter what people say and it does not well who cares I'm going to want to restore the best train of all time

[@brianfalzon6739]

But where could 1218 find a place to be restored to steam again in the future?

[@SteelBeastsOfNW]

Theres many places large enough to restore the locomotive. The issue is on where to run the locomotive. That I couldn't tell you.

[@historyotaku]

I would love to 1218 run again. The issue is not necessarily if it's possible, it absolutely is but moreso an issue if restoring her to operation makes sense and to that at this point in time it just doesn't. 611 is already a caged tiger at this point and being heavily underuttilized. 1218 if it were restored to operation at this point in time and circumstances didn't change would be in an even worse situation as there's even less places where it can run. It's times like this which really make me wish that we had an equivilient here in the US to the Great Central Railway in the UK, a preserved section of double tracked main line where it would be feasible to geather a bunch of main line engines and give them a place to run at track speed.

[@SteelBeastsOfNW]

Thats a fair point. Guessing we will see what the future holds for mainline steam anyways, with 2816's tour coming up, it may open up a slew of possibilities, with it being the first real mainline steam run outside of UP's fleet.

[@rossbryan6102]

I QUITE AGREE AND WHOLEHEARTEDLY SUPPORT THE REBUILD! MISSING PARTS CAN BE MACHINED AND RE CAST AS NEEDED ! IF ORIGINAL BLUE PRINTS ARE AVAILABLE IS BEST, AND REVERSE ENGINEERING CAN HANDLE THIS PROBLEM ! MY BEST AND LONGEST STEAM CAB RIDE WAS IN 1218 , ORRICK MISSOURI, TO NORTH KANSAS CITY MO! GET HER TO SILVIS! KEEP THEM ROLLING BROTHERS!! 👍👍

[@jerryrollins512]

If there's the will on the part of the VMT to finish the rebuild the job, can be completed to current FRA standards. All it'll take is $$. PTC? Unless it's been recently the 611 lacks this feature.

[@roofdriller1537]

I sure hope so, i'd love to see her again. It was in the late 80's i seen her at Iager WV. I was 8 i think. Make her run again, please God.

[@PowerTrain611]

As far as what parts are missing, the boiler is just an empty shell. The tubes were all cut out, tube plates removed, etc. Now, it's not like we don't have blueprints and mechanical drawing for just about every single part from the N&W's modern steam fleet. It's not like we don't have the skilled labor and willing volunteers to do the work. It's not that we don't have the means of raising the funds. No, the real issue here is that there is nowhere feasible to run the 1218, which is a factor many people do not take into consideration with this sort of topic. It CAN be done, but to what effect? Where will it run and what will it do? It's too large and heavy for most tourist railroads, and with the lack of support from any class 1 railroads to run it on their mainline in the foreseeable future, why bother with all the time, money and effort? 611 got lucky in the fact that she was able to run at Strasburg with their clearances and weight restrictions being able to handle her and giving the Fire Up 611 group the green light, but now that she's going back to the NCTM I wonder what will become of her when 2030 rolls around...

[@robkrasinski6217]

Why is NS against excursions again after hosting them again for several years? What changed besides Wick Moorman leaving? That program was mostly his project. 611 is going to leave Strasburg after this month and possibly return to Roanoke. It is running a couple weekends of rides this month at Strasburg.

[@williamclarke4510]

In recent years, when excursions ran,the NS was a police state They have no interest in steam excursions. They have to pay all kinds of overtime. Society has gotten so litigious in the last few decades. The museum board thought it more important to have that silly "Spirit of Roanoke" slogan on the 611 than to have Proven winner Preston Claytor in charge. According to an article in The Roanoke Times, He quit because of this historical inaccuracy, a distortion of the historical record, in museum parlance.

[@robkrasinski6217]

Yeah, suing is so common now, there are so many court shows where people sue for the smallest thing. "I want $10,000 because he spilled hot coffee on me!" I guess Reading and Northern and Steamtown because they are not publicly traded like NS can operate all the excursions they want and they are insured. NS has shareholders to worry about and they have a lot more freight to move and a lot more track and signals to maintain. Public excursions are a bigger liability for them. UP though will operate public steam excursions occasionally with the Big Boy and 844. As well as system tours where the train stops for public viewing but only employees are allowed to ride with the train.

[@robkrasinski6217]

I think though a deal is being made possibly with Amtrak and NS for 611 excursions from Roanoke, VA on NS. Because it was leaked that 611 is returning to Roanoke and that there are plans for 611 excursions in Virginia. The only place it can really run in Virginia for excursions is on NS.

[@williamclarke4510]

@@robkrasinski6217 What about the Buckingham Branch.I think the Commonwealth owns the old C&O main line between Clifton Forge and Doswell. The Buckingham Branch operates it. They ran a few excursions last fall between Staunton and Goshen.

[@timl6039]

“RUnnInG ExcuRsIOns OuT Of RoANoke With AmTrAk” Bruh. 611 doesn’t even fit though the Roanoke Amtrak Station platform. And no, there’s not even a dialogue between VMT, and Amtrak, about it. Mainly bc just about every railroad, and historical association east of the Mississippi River, wants nothing to do with VMT, or 611.

[@mjrodriguez8670]

My dream is to see N&W #1218 operate under his own power again! He can pull long freights!

[@davidrubin8228]

You speak truth sir! From time to time the 4041 does revenue freight runs for UP. Not very often but the do occur.

[@TB587.3]

'The King Of Roanoke'

[@user-lw1fo6ww1p]

I've seen the Norfolk And Western 1218 in footage. It's not that hard to restore to operate, but the website I looked on said there's no plans to restore it back to operation. They need to re operate it again, BeCause this locomotive needs to get back in business. They are making a huge mistake not restoring it, but at some point they are going to have to do it. I'll be surprised if I hear that this gets back on the tracks, BeCause as a huge railfan, I love this one. If Union Pacific 4014, 3985, (Will be restored) can be restored? So can this beautiful beast!

[@ns4270railfan]

1218 needs to be restored! I like the 1218 because it's the same size as the Challenger 3985, however 1218 has the same 2 sets of 6 drivers and the 4 wheel trailing truck as 3985 did, but the front leading truck on 1218 has only 2 while the Challenger has 4, but 1218 and Challenger 3985 are about the same size, so it needs to be restored to it's full operating status. I'm sure it can be done, but you know that Norfolk Southern gets kind of picky with steam locomotive ferry moves. NS is not the same like it was. I do miss it's heavy ex Conrail power like the SD80MACs, SD60Is, etc. But with them getting rid of their steam program, that's is a sad thing. I get that in these times a steamer is difficult to run and maintain, but with the extra money and people that know steamers inside and out, 1218 can have another chance! Oh well, only time will tell for 1218's fate.

[@Snoapyfluff]

I would love to see 2156 restored as well I got to see the 2156 in st Louis

[@jrahrig]

At Most Money Wise......I Keep Hearing Cost Estimates From Previous VMT Staffers & Museum Volunteers They Need Between 6 To 11 Million Dollars....Just To Get 1218 Back Up A Going...

[@WETrains]

It is definitely possible to restore 1218 but the issue is funding and finding a suitable place to operate. A 1218 overhaul would be relatively expensive compared to 611’s and the expensive can not be justified if there is no railroad that can host 1218. The only local railroads that could host 1218 would be the Kanawha River Railroad or the Buckingham Branch. Unless there is a leadership change at Norfolk Southern, the only way I could see either 611 or 1218 on the main line would possibly on the State of Virginia owned track if the museum and state partnered together.

[@maxwellwalcher6420]

i wish 1218is steamed.

[@railfan475productions3]

theoretically anything is possible with enough money. but unfortunately money doesn't grow on trees.

[@rearspeaker6364]

or printed on Zerox printers anymore.

[@Chevyguy-1984]

Fire up 1218!!!!

[@Jello12]

This video is in fact full of words

[@SteelBeastsOfNW]

Yes.

[@timl6039]

Most of which are incoherent foamer drivel. That make zero sense, and have little to no basis in reality.

[@kc4cvh]

Of course it's technically possible, though you've only scratched the surface of what would be required. The question is whether the millions it would cost can be raised as the population of operating steam locomotives steadily increases and so interest becomes more diffuse.

[@JustinStevnson-hu8yz]

I agree that 1218 will run again

[@Pennsy6755m1b]

How much would it be to restore me

[@SteelBeastsOfNW]

Depends on the condition youre in, Comrade.

[@the_mississippian_railfan]

The foamers are wrong while a engine like 4014 can be restored thanks to the help from a class one unless NS decides to have it back chances are it will never run again due to its size

[@michigandon]

I'm certainly not holding my breath.

[@markantony3875]

Class A's are actually not that big, say compared to a DM&IR Yellowstone or an H8 Allegheny. Running it would be no problem. Most Class 1 railroads simply don't want the liability of running steam. Class 1's also love to brag about how much more environmental friendly they are compared to other forms of transportation, so running steam counteracts their current marketing. UP is the exception to this for now, but all it takes is new management at UP and they could very well scrap their steam program.

[@bigboy-tk8vq]

I believe 1218 should have another chance but I say 50/50

[@williamclarke4510]

Nonsense.

[@southernpennsyrailfan8579]

How much money would it cost for a full restoration?

[@SteelBeastsOfNW]

Good question. With the way he stands now, I would think it'd be in the millions, probably more than 611's restoration.

[@trainst]

A asked a VMT official this question in 2017 I was told it would take $4,000,000 to get it operational again

[@SteelBeastsOfNW]

@@trainst that does sound about right.

[@lucasquintanilla1673]

@@SteelBeastsOfNW if 4014 was restored and now seeing as 3985 is going to be restored then I think that 1218 can definitely be restored provided an organization with the money and the time cares to do so. There was a rumor (rumors seem to be abundant when it comes to this locomotive) that I recall that Norfolk Southern was considering restoring 1218 after they had finished 611, but then all the stuff happened with the precision scheduled railroading and congestion issues, and so forth resulting in a potential restoration getting shelved again. All of this leads me to believe that 611 in hindsight had a pretty small window of opportunity to get restored when it did a few years ago. A few years earlier and no one with the money would have been interested in doing it. A few years afterward, and no one would have been able to run it anywhere other than maybe Strasbourg. All of that has convinced me that we have been pretty lucky as it is in terms of 611’s recent operations. I personally think 1218 will get restored one day, but that day is likely several years away when the economy is good, there are numerous different enterprises people are willing and able to spend on, and if numerous other factors align to produce a large boom in rail, excursions to justify such an effort. I remember one thing I saw on a Internet thread about 1218 and US rail excursions in general. It said that other than the union pacific steam program we are likely to be in a bit of a drought when it comes to mainline steam excursions for the next several years, but in the words of one commentator “ don’t think that this will last forever. One day the stars will align and the problems we have now will eventually cease. Until then keep up the faith.”

[@ChrisHaon]

The men who know how to put her back together are gone. :-(

[@jeremylando40]

If 1218 can run again there’s no reason why Reading 2101, TSRR 610, and steamtown 2317, and many others can’t go again. I mean they are building a new T1 so why not!

[@Joseph-jq8ve]

It can be done and I plan on making it happen somehow some way I will get 1218 back up and running #fireup1218

[@williamclarke4510]

I guess you can run it on the Strasburg. Hahahaha!

[@williamclarke4510]

I guess you can run it on the Strasburg. Hahahaha?

[@williamclarke4510]

I guess you can run it on the Strasburg. Hahahaha?

[@henryjewell3900]

It is possible to restore this locomotive to operation. But who will put up the money for the work?

[@user-pp1ni2jy3f]

1218 from what I heard, is missing alot of small parts, and would have to be made from scratch. Money is not the major issue!

[@SteelBeastsOfNW]

I- thats what I was saying?

[@Gabethenwr77]

Is it possible to restore 3977?

[@SteelBeastsOfNW]

Depends if UP wants to do so. Usually locomotives that fall under UP's name like the BBs and 844, its usually up to them. Thats where 1218 has issue, cause the N&W ceased to exist since the early 70s.

[@Gabethenwr77]

@@SteelBeastsOfNW well, hopefully it’s possible because I have been planning to restore it

[@cdangelo1843]

@@SteelBeastsOfNWEarly 80s

[@MatthewTheRBXMan]

I’m sure 1218 will have a 3rd life sometime soon

[@fundragon1358]

Get together with TVRM!! They can help!!!!!

[@SteelBeastsOfNW]

I love the idea that a museum within 4 hours of me would help do that. Question is, would their location be big enough to sustain the 121 foot long 1218?

[@jamesthompson2851]

Bring it back ALIVE

[@haroldwilkes6608]

If I win the lottery...

[@johnuhelski8613]

NOT gonna happen , the FRAME is toast and you cannot go to Ace and buy another. This , plus being used for parts supply. Now if YOU have a few million to spare , ANYTHING can be restored.

[@rearspeaker6364]

5years and 20million to restore it...... but where to run it...that is the bigger question! and that T1 they're building too...and AT&SF 2926,3751, SP4449too.

[@timl6039]

I love “special people” who don’t know the difference between 1218 and 2156. 2156 is that hideous turd from St. Louis, that has the frame issues.

[@tomlewis6533]

NS has no interest in a steam engine operating on NS rails as has been evident with 611. So where would she run? At Strasburg???

[@barbarathompson8604]

I love the 1218, my favorite locomotive, hope they can restore him.

[@treos17]

who refers to a locomotive as a male, smh

[@SteelBeastsOfNW]

I do? If ya dont like it, ya dont have to. Doesn't mean ya gotta complain about someones preferences.

[@charlesswanson1885]

Yes, bring her back as she represents the best N&W produced that did the most to help the railroad to do the heavy hauling during WW11.

[@georgew.5639]

It not can it be done. It will it ever be done.

[@johnnylott9700]

If 1218 gets restored, I would love her to quadruple head with C&O (WM) 1309 UP 3985 & 4014.

[@williamclarke4510]

Then there's the "Redneck Roanoke" establishment clown suck butt club known as the VMT board. "Railfans are treated as if they are the unwashed." , as one former board member described the situation. The VMT had to get the Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society to run the museum's own excursion in northern Virginia. Can't they even run their own excursion? Oh, thats right. An excursion in northern Virginia doesn't bring any tourist money into downtown Roanoke, so why should they care? When the 2156 was in Roanoke, the rods weren't on the engine when they had the big hoopla. I consider that to be administrative incompetence.