Locomotive #7258
General Electric locomotive #7258. Built in 1942, this ex-Army locomotive was acquired from Birdsboro Steel in Birdsboro, Pennsylvania. WK&S first tested the locomotive on December 26, 1996 and took delivery of it in 1997. WK&S volunteers poured their hearts into #7258. Among other things, they rebuild one of the two diesel engines, rewired the locomotive and performed a complete cosmetic restoration. #7258 is in charge of most of the yard work and pulls the passenger trains when the steam engine isn't used during the slow months of the summer season. #7258 also allows for off-season charters after the steam locomotives have been winterized.
The photo above was taken at Birdsboro on December 26, 1996 and shows #7258 with a WK&S inspection crew. Only engine #1 was operational at the time of the test. Photo by Jerry Clearwater.
The photo above was taken on May 11, 1997 and shows #7258 soon after its arrival. Note its previous U.S. Army paint scheme. One hood has been removed to facilitate the rebuilding of engine #2. Photo by Mike Hartman.
Locomotive #7258 coupled to freshly painted coach #1494.
Switching Kempton yard, an engineer's perspective from the cab of Locomotive #7258.
Locomotive #7258 southbound over Ontelaunee Creek. Photo by Gary Zweizig.
WK&S #7258 played the staring role in a comprehensive video on locomotive history and maintenance that's included with the purchase of Bachmann's Spectrum 1:20.3 Scale Narrow Gauge General Electric 45 Ton Side-Rod D Model Locomitive.