NASHUA, N.H. — The Flying Yankee Association, which last year became owner of the Budd Co. streamliner built for the Boston & Maine in 1935, is launching a fundraiser its preservation and restoration efforts.
Marking the 90th anniversary of the shovel-nosed, articulated trainset — a virtual duplicate of the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy equipment that became known as the Pioneer Zephyr — the association is raising funds to restore the Flying Yankee’s two traction motors, part of its effort to return the train to operation. The project is estimated to cost $30,000.
Some work was done on the traction motors during earlier restoration work in the early 2000s, but they were not completed because of a lack of funds. To complete the project, both motors will be shipped to a traction motor shop. Work required includes mounting of pinion gears; installation of cable connectors and lubrication piping; bearing replacement; fabrication of two bearing caps; and qualification.
Those interested in supporting the project should visit this page on the Flying Yankee website. The organization is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization; more information is available here.
The association is also planning construction of a facility to house the train. That structure is currently being designed; when design work is complete, the association will launch a capital campaign.
I saw this train on display at the Edaville Railroad in Carver, Massachusetts, in 1968. (Obviously, static display, as the Edaville was 2-foot gauge.) Made quite an impression. Obviously, 57 more years since 1968 can do a lot aging.
We never “restored” a traction motor before. Sent many out for overhaul; also, I didn’t see rewinding on the “to do” list. After 90 years they may need that, What kind of “qualification” is planned?
If I had the time, I would volunteer gratis to proofread this stuff. “Sees Funds?” “…fundraiser its preservation…?”