By M.T.Burkhart and Justin Franz 

LOGAN TOWNSHIP, N.J. — Two different 0-6-0 steam locomotives were fired up last weekend, marking big milestones in two ongoing restorations in New Jersey and California. 

On April 23, SMS Rail Lines in southern New Jersey test-fired 0-6-0 9. This was the second test-fire for the locomotive. The day’s goal was to slowly bring the pressure up and check the locomotive’s brake system, generator, compressor and other hardware. By all accounts, the steam-up was successful and the focus now turns to finish work, including mating the cab with the locomotive, inserting the newly machined pistons, boiler jacket installation and paint.

Locomotive 9 last moved under its own power in 1981. Built by Alco in 1942 as United States Army 4023, it initially worked at the sprawling Fort Dix, N.J., base and was later renumbered 616 and transferred to Ft. Eustis, Va. Following its military service, it was sold to Virginia Blue Ridge Railway and renumbered 9, and later went to the New Hope & Ivyland. The locomotive ran on and off in the 1970s. SMS plans to use the locomotive in freight service on occasion. 

Western Pacific 0-6-0 165 last weekend in Portola, Calif. Photo Courtesy of Western Pacific Railroad Museum.

Meanwhile, out in California, Western Pacific 0-6-0 165 took its first steps at the Western Pacific Railroad Museum in Portola, following a multi-year restoration. The locomotive was originally built for the United Verde Copper Company but it and three other 0-6-0s were sold to the WP in 1927. The locomotive worked for the WP until the 1950s. In 1957, it was donated to the City of San Leonardo and sat on display there for a number of years. The locomotive arrived at Portola in 2006 and its been under restoration ever since. The locomotive was fired up for the first time in more than 60 years back in November. The locomotive is set to make its public debut on May 15, following the Western Pacific Historical Convention in Reno.