Nashua, N.H.-based Flying Yankee Association (FYA) has launched a fundraiser to begin restoring the Flying Yankee, a diesel-electric streamliner built in 1935 by the Budd Company for the Boston & Maine.
FYA will bring the Flying Yankee one step closer to operation with a traction motor rebuild project, which is estimated to cost up to $30,000.
“These model GE 721 motors are attached to the first two axles of the train,” the Association reported Feb. 10. “Unusually small compared to conventional locomotive traction motors, this unique electrical equipment has already received substantial work under previous restoration efforts in the early 2000s. The motors were not completed at that time due to a lack of funds. To complete the rebuild, both motors will be shipped to a qualified traction motor shop. Items remaining to render the motors usable include the mounting of pinion gears, installation of cable connectors and lubrication piping, bearing replacement, fabrication of two bearing caps, and qualification.”
FYA plans to fund the work through donations and grants over the coming months. It has received nearly $3,200 so far.
FYA took ownership of the three-car articulated Flying Yankee last year from the New Hampshire Department of Transportation. It is now planning a facility to house the train—the contemporary of the Burlington’s Zephyr, later renamed the Pioneer Zephyr. Once the design phase is completed later this year, FYA will initiate a capital campaign.
