Neat shot, thanks for posting it. Love the old ATSF
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Beautiful piece of history.
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What a wonderful photo. I visited that area recently and had no idea that freight had stopped using the tracks years ago, and that the current SWC route is in jeopardy of being abandoned. I made sure to take the time to visit the still-operating semaphores near Las Vegas, NM. I recommend that to any railfan who wants to see these classics in action.
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What does "Lower Extension Stack Here" mean anyway? Just curious.
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I'm glad the question about extension stacks was asked because it gives me an opportunity to correct a popular misconception. According to Joe Dale Morris, railroad author, certified steam and diesel engineer, and restorer of steam locomotives, the purpose of the extension stack was not to deflect smoke from the cab of the locomotive. The purpose was rather to increase draft and facilitate better steaming. The smoke deflectors or "elephant ears" seen on locomotives such as
the Union Pacific's 844 were indeed meant to deflect smoke from the cab, but this was not the Santa
Fe's purpose. The extension stack was lowered by air using controls in the cab. If clearance was questionable as in the case of a tunnel, this was done. My Rail Pictures No. 427795 shows a 2900 class with an extension stack.
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As soon as I submitted my comment I realized that we were talking steam and not not diesel. I need to wake up and smell the roses.
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