For media inquiries, please contact Grand Canyon Railway public relations at 928-773-1976 x2278 or heather AT thetrain.com.
WILLIAMS, ARIZ. (Aug. 29, 2005)-Grand Canyon Railway has teamed with Nigel Day - a pioneer in steam engine technology currently working for the Mt. Washington Cog Railway - to bring its historic steam engines Nos. 4960 and 29 into the 21st century. The three-part project currently underway will make the historic steam engines more efficient and environmentally friendly. "People want a traditional steam engine, but we need to modernize them to meet today's operating requirements," said Day of his work. "It's my desire to have steam at least keep up with diesel." Day is one of a handful of pioneers dedicated to evolving steam engine technology, which came to a halt in the United States upon the creation of the mainstream diesel engines. The diesel engines were much more efficient and less polluting than their steam counterparts. Now, Grand Canyon Railway and Day are closing the gap between steam and diesel efficiencies. "This is the most significant work on steam engines in the United States since the 1930s," said Sam Lanter, chief mechanical officer for Grand Canyon Railway. "And rather than build a new breed of steam engine, it was important to us that we evolve the steam technology, while also preserving the history of the American steam engine." Part one of the project - refitting the draft apparatus of the engine - was completed on both 4960 and 29 in March. Refitting the front end of the engine made it possible for these steam engines to burn less fuel and use less water while also increasing power. Day and Grand Canyon Railway continued work on the project in August by beginning step two, the redesign of the oil burners. Day will return to Grand Canyon Railway in the fall for step three - a remodel of the steam engine's boiler feedwater system. When complete, both 4960 and 29 will burn more environmentally friendly low-sulfur diesel fuel, which will reduce smoke and also increase power to the engine. Engine No. 4960 is currently running the rail. Engine No. 29 will re-debut on the line at Grand Canyon Railway's Railfan Weekend taking place Sept. 30 - Oct. 1, 2005. The Railfan Weekend will provide train and locomotive enthusiasts with a special behind-the-scenes look at the Railway and its operations. For reservations, call 1-800-843-8723. About Nigel Day: Day began his career in photography, but found that he enjoyed taking pictures of trains more than people. In 1977, he completed college and accepted a position with the Mt. Snowdon railway in Wales and there he grew his talents. Today he is recognized as a pioneer in steam technology, and in addition to mechanical work, is famous for his beautifully crafted brass steam engine accessories including whistles, bells and lanterns, among others. Grand Canyon Railway operates daily train service between Williams, Ariz. and the Grand Canyon. The Railway offers five distinct classes of service, as well as money-saving packages featuring the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel in Williams. Overnight stays at the Grand Canyon also can be included in the packages. Grand Canyon Railway is an authorized concessionaire of the National Park Service and the Kaibab National Forest. For more information, visit www.thetrain.com or call 1-800-THE-TRAIN.