Iowa Interstate 6988 On The Annawan Steam Engine Experience

May 19 2019 - The Iowa Interstate 6988 was put incharge of leading a short excursion consist along the Iowa Interstates Mainline. This excursion was in support of the Annawan Fire Department. This excursion ran between Annawan and the city of Geneseeo and had an average speed of around 40 miles per hour. Two units withdrawn from use in China, numbers 6988 and 7081 (both former Jitong Railway), were originally acquired by the Iowa Interstate Railroad and later donated to Central States Steam Preservation Association. Iowa Interstate 7081 retains its original Chinese appearance with the exception of the Jitong lettering and logo being replaced with the Iowa Interstate's, and the mandatory changes required by U.S. law such as hand rails and a bell. IAIS 6988 was "Americanized" in time for operation at Train Festival 2011 in Rock Island, Illinois. The diesel-style bell originally installed when it arrived in Iowa was replaced with a steam engine type bell, the Chinese headlights were replaced with an American style light with a cast number plate under it, and an American steam whistle was installed. The steel sheet on the front was removed and all red paint was painted over in black, with white trim on the running boards, wheel rims, etc. If you enjoyed the video and would like to support the channel please consider subscribing and sharing the link to the channel with friends, family and anyone else who may be interested in content here on the channel. Important Links YouTube:    / stevenjamftw   Steam: http://steamcommunity.com/id/StevenJam/ Facebook Group:   / stevenjamyt