Submitted photo The West Virginia Railroad Museum and the Durbin Greenbrier Valley Railroad are teaming up to restore a historic locomotive.

ELKINS — The West Virginia Railroad Museum is working together with the Durbin Greenbrier Valley Railroad to restore a historic locomotive.

The locomotive, known as GM-EMD E-8A #92, was delivered to the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad in 1950, according to Lawrence W. Sagle’s book, “B&O Power.” The 2250-hp passenger road locomotive was used system-wide before later becoming part of the Amtrak system.

Eventually, the locomotive was added to the collection of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Museum, and was deeded as a gift to the West Virginia Railroad Museum on March 4, 2004.

“The restoration journey of this historical treasure is not just about refurbishing a piece of machinery; it’s about reviving a vital part of our heritage and ensuring that future generations can experience the grandeur and significance of this historic locomotive,” a museum press release states. “This joint effort between the West Virginia Railroad Museum and the Durbin Greenbrier Valley Railroad showcases the power of collaboration and dedication in preserving history for all to enjoy.”

The renovation project will deal with “the wear and tear that comes with age,” officials said.

“The E8 locomotive has been through decades of use and exposure to the elements, leading to rust, corrosion and structural damage,” according to the museum release. “Large sections of the degraded paint must be removed to allow damaged areas to be rebuilt with fiber glass, sheet metal and body filler.”

Officials estimate the project will take approximately 850 man hours of scraping, repairing and painting to complete, and will require 20 gallons of primer, 20 gallons of high gloss paint, 25 gallons of white spirits, and 10 gallons of boiled linseed oil.

“Following the preparation, the first coat of primer will be applied. Every coat of paint must be painstakingly applied by hand,” the release states. “We will start with three coats of black primer; this will allow us to see any further areas which require more filling. Each additional coat of paint applied requires the previous coat to be sanded back, cleaned with a degreaser and then wiped again with a tack cloth. This helps remove surface dust from the coachwork.

“The next phase will be to apply four coats of specialty gloss paint. Once again, each coat must be sanded smoothly, cleaned and prepared for the next coat,” according to the release. “Finally, the wheels will be cleaned and prepared.”

Officials are asking the public to join in the restoration project of the historic E8 locomotive by donating or by volunteering time and expertise.

“Your contribution will play a crucial role in bringing this iconic piece of locomotive history back to its former glory,” the release states. “By donating, you become part of a dedicated community passionate about preserving our heritage and ensuring that future generations can experience the beauty and significance of the E8 locomotive.

“Every donation, no matter how big or small, makes a difference in this restoration project. Join us in reviving history and keeping the legacy of the E8 Locomotive alive for years to come. Together, we can make a lasting impact and honor the rich history of this historic locomotive.”

Send email to wvrailroadmuseum@gmail.com to volunteer or donate.