To All: Sperry Rail Service is hired by railroads to test the rail for micro cracks, broken rail and other problems. This service is used to prevent derailments and other concerns for the railroad. Use of a self-propelled Sperry Rail car on your Pike adds interest to your operations. Models of this car have been produced in model form. Photo by Elvin Howland. Yours, Elvin Howland/E. St. Louis Rail Group Layout

To All: Today I start a new series called Railroad Maintenance of Way. Pictured is a Burro crane used by many railroads for light duty line side work. They have enough power to pull a gondola that may contain new ties or other supplies. I captured this example of a the CSX (B&O) Burro Crane. Powered models of these have been produced. Photo by Elvin Howland. Yours, Elvin Howland/E. St. Louis Rail Group Layout.