Restoration work continues for the 119-year-old OR&N 197. This treasured steam locomotive arrived in Portland back in 1905 and retired after 50 years of service. FMW Solutions, in collaboration with talented volunteers, recently worked to repair the locomotive’s firebox which had corroded.

The firebox is a pivotal part of a steam locomotive. They’re responsible for creating the steam that powers the engine to travel incredible distances. Typically located near the rear of the locomotive’s boiler, the firebox is enclosed by a thick steel shell to withstand extreme temperatures.

WORK IS HEATING UP

Due to the corrosion, OR&N 197 can’t fire up its engine until the repairs are completed. Restoration work entailed replacing the lower 8-10 inches of side sheet and all 4 corners of the firebox’s interior. There were intense challenges removing and replacing the rivets, which are mechanical fasteners, around the area. Locomotive rivet work is labor intensive and almost a lost art. Volunteers and workers steadily replaced the 180 rivets securing the firebox. The working museum was filled with sparks and clangs as workers exclaimed “hot rivet” and “fire in the hole” until Portland’s night sky appeared.

The professionalism and passion our volunteers and crafts workers bring is invaluable. Their work ensures that this historic locomotive will be preserved for generations to come! You’re invited to see this preservation work up close and personal at ORHC.