All told, I don't think I added much weight at all to the loco. I
eliminated the side tanks and the metal cab, and the weight of the
bunker is supported by the trailing truck. There may actually be *less*
weight on the drivers. I haven't yet steamed her in "full" dress, but
she runs quite smoothly on air, and a mid-construction steam test showed
even-tempered operation.
Right now, I need to replace the butane filler valve before I fire her
up again. The current one no longer seals properly, and the tank cools
so quickly I can't maintain pressure going to the burner without a hot
water bath. If her maiden firing is at DH, it would be rather
appropriate, anyway.
Later,
K
