Shop Updates for Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Highball! It is that time of the year to begin are 2009 season! With all the efforts and long hours put in by the BHC shop crew, we will be opening the season on Monday, May 4th. We are looking forward to seeing everyone soon, so make your plans and reservations to join us. I will keep everyone posted as progress continues on Car #65, and other major projects in the next coming months. With the long stretch of time between previous updates we were able to gear down and accomplish all our winter projects. Have a great summer, and don't forget to make us your destination!

Joe Belczak (Shop Crew and Staff , Black Hills Central Railroad)

Engine #104
-All new water glasses are installed and work great.
-Boiler hydro. was successful, and we will see 104 running in the first week of the season.
-Currently #104 is awaiting its test run and building up steam pressure.



Engine #110
-After many weeks of intense shop, we will see 110 under steam during opening week!
-The past weeks were spent putting all piping and appliances back on the boiler sides.



-After 110's test run, the locomotive will be operating daily with our seven car train.

Engine #7
-Currently, #7 awaits boiler repair and inspection. At this time of the season #7 will be shopped, and will await its hydro. when all repairs are made. Now that all major repairs on #110 are complete the shop crew will be able to spend more time with #7, and determine if it will operate for the 2009 season.

Car #65 (The New Car)
-The car shop has seen more and more progress with the car every day. Wall supports are in place and sub floor is complete.



-Since last post, #65 trucks have been completely disassembled and inspected.
-Due to years of use and abuse, all brake rigging was rebushed, and awaits assembly.
-New springs were delivered and await assembly to bolster.
-As soon as trucks are complete the shop crew will direct there attention to all plumbing and undercarriage work.

Here before you know it!

Time is flying by and before you know it, the summer season will be in full swing again! Reservations keep coming in as people plan to make their way to South Dakota this summer.

This year we're allowing our customers to reserve special event tickets online besides the regular train tickets. The result is that events like the Fireworks Express are already more than half sold out! Remember Mother's Day is right around the corner, it's the first event of the year.

We don't open our doors for another twelve days, but the yard is already full of activity. The gift shop staffs of both the Hill City and Keystone depot have been hard at work with their spring cleaning and merchandise is coming in.

The round house has assembled the car line-up infront of the Hill City depot. Our opening day will run four cars with engine #104 pulling the train. Maintanance is hard at work getting some last minute landscaping done and de-winterising the buildings.

The snack bar will be expanding the breakfast menue and will be offering 'Famous Meal Deals' this season. Look for them to open on May 23rd!