F7A Locomotive 576: New Batteries and Bulbs Mark Step Towards Return
Last week, new batteries were installed in F7A locomotive 576, and the engine had all accessible light bulbs replaced. As a result, another major step in the locomotive’s return to service was accomplished. Once returned to service, the 576 will dethrone the 710 as the oldest operating diesel locomotive in our collection, as it was…
August 14, 2023
Capture the Past: Exclusive Evening Photo Shoot with Vintage Locomotives on Founders Day at TVRM
As part of our September 9 Founders Day activities we are offering a special evening photo shoot with a number of our vintage equipment items. Photoshoot details: Duration: 1 hour and 15 minutesBring your best photography equipment and join us for an exclusive night photo session at our East Chattanooga location! Participants will have the…
August 8, 2023
Steam Star #630 Joins the Evening Ridge Runner: An Exciting Update from Soule Shops
Big news from the crew at Soule Shops- steam star #630 will roll into service tonight on the Evening Ridge Runner! We are so excited to have this beautiful 119 year old steam engine running and she will be leading the way on the Missionary Ridge Local all weekend. Be sure to ask the station…
August 4, 2023
Embark on a Vintage Adventure: July’s Classic Train Ride with the Historic 4501 Steam Engine at Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum
No better way to round out July than with a classic Chattanooga train ride! The Missionary Ridge Local will feature 112-year old steam star number 4501. This engine has lived a storied life and is living the best life here at TVRM – bringing an authentic train ride to life for each and every visitor….
August 1, 2023
Steam Queen #630 gets a new Flue
A brand new flue has been installed in Steam Queen #630 as she gets ready for an August return to service. This engine passed the hydro test a few days ago and will undergo her annual FRA check before rolling along the rails at TVRM. Get your tickets now – Missionary Ridge Local Train Ride
Revamping “The Twins”: A Maintenance Tale on the Hiwassee River Scenic Railroad
The Hiwassee River Scenic Railroad offers a picturesque journey that is not only a treat to the eyes but a marvel of railway engineering. Among our beloved locomotives are a pair of leased engines from General American Transportation (GATX/GMTX), numbers 2004 & 2005, fondly referred to as “The Twins.” Meet “The Twins” Though they’re called…
May 16, 2023
Inside the Diesel-Electric Locomotive: A Motor Replacement Tale
Behind the Scenes: Replacing a Locomotive’s Traction Motor As many of you know, most diesel locomotives are not going to be “direct drive” units, but are powered using a “diesel-electric” system. This system works by having the unit’s diesel motor (prime mover in railroad vernacular) turn a generator to create electricity, which is then sent…
Continuing to Support Soule’s Craftsmanship: Infusing 4501 with New Year Service
Revitalizing a Legacy: Behind-the-Scenes at Soule Repair Shops with 4501’s Annual Inspection Nestled in the heart of the Soule Repair Shops, a meticulous and passionate team works tirelessly on the annual inspection of the iconic 4501. The efforts of this team bring together a blend of expertise and passion, ensuring the historic locomotive is both…
Santa’s Coal Surprise: A Christmas Meme Laugh
A Christmas Chuckle: Santa’s Coal Surprise! Ho, ho, ho! It’s that time of the year again when stockings are hung, trees are decorated, and we all anticipate Santa’s special gifts. However, not everyone dreads the notorious coal in their stocking – especially if they have a steam locomotive to run! Take a look at this…
Restoring the GP7 Diesel: A Gritty Undertaking!
Restoring the GP7 Diesel: A Gritty Undertaking! In the bustling heart of our shop, an old warrior awaited attention. The GP7 diesel number 1829, constructed in 1951, had seen better days. Its sand lines, crucial components for ensuring grip and stability, were in dire need of replacement. Over an intensive two-day period, Zach and Travis…