Authentic Retired Flexible Staybolt and Cap from C&O 614 with New Staybolt, Cap, and Sleeve Installed (A Limited Preservation Opportunity)

OWN A PIECE OF HISTORY

Here is your chance to own an authentic retired boiler component from Chesapeake and Ohio Steam Locomotive No. 614. This genuine flexible staybolt and original flexible staybolt cap, once used in the boiler of one of America’s most iconic steam locomotives, are now preserved as historical pieces from the golden age of steam railroading.

What Is Included

• One (1) authentic retired flexible staybolt (individual lengths vary between 6" to 24" or more!)
• One (1) authentic, retired, original flexible staybolt cap.
• One (1) Certificate of Authenticity jointly issued by RJD America LLC and Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services.
• Each purchase directly supports the manufacture and installation of a new flexible staybolt, sleeve, and cap, replacing a retired assembly on C&O 614.

Note: A retired sleeve is not included. The original sleeve was removed during retirement and recycled, as torch cutting reduced it to slagged, melted scrap unsuitable for preservation.

Historical and Mechanical Context

Flexible staybolts are critical boiler components designed to support the firebox sheets while allowing controlled movement as the boiler expands and contracts under heat and pressure. Based on all available records and inspection evidence, the retired flexible staybolts offered here were structurally sound and serviceable in their original application, having performed reliably for decades under prior ownership and stewardship of the locomotive.

These flexible staybolt components are being permanently retired as part of documented boiler restoration work conducted in 2026. Their removal ensures continued safety, regulatory compliance, and the locomotive's long-term preservation as it returns to service under RJD America’s stewardship.

Condition and Authentication

These are authentic, retired components removed from Chesapeake and Ohio steam locomotive No. 614, exhibiting honest wear from decades of boiler service. Items may show torch marks, corrosion, oxidation, scale buildup, heat discoloration, and related surface characteristics. No cleaning, refinishing, or cosmetic restoration has been performed, and each piece retains its original, as-removed patina.

Each purchase includes a Certificate of Authenticity jointly issued by RJD America LLC and Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services, confirming the components were removed from C&O 614 during documented boiler restoration work in 2026. The certificate verifies authenticity only and does not represent the original manufacture or installation date, nor does it imply that the flexible staybolt and flexible staybolt cap were installed together as a matched set.

Collector and Legal Notice

• Sold strictly as historical collectibles only.
• Not intended or approved for mechanical, pressure, or structural use.
• Buyer assumes full responsibility for handling, display, and storage.
• No warranties or guarantees beyond authenticity are expressed or implied.

A Limited Preservation Opportunity

Availability is limited by design. Not every flexible staybolt and cap that is being removed will be released. A significant portion of the components is removed by torch cutting, which irreversibly alters or destroys the parts, making them unacceptable for retail sale. Each purchase directly contributes to the preservation and restoration of the Chesapeake and Ohio Steam Locomotive No. 614 while safeguarding a tangible piece of her history.

Shipping Notice

These are full-size, solid steel locomotive components, not lightweight replicas. Due to their length, weight, and industrial shape, special handling is required. Shipping is charged at the minimum necessary to cover actual packaging and carrier costs and is not a profit center.

Pre-Order Notice

This item is offered as a pre-order and includes one retired flexible staybolt and one retired original flexible staybolt cap, along with a Certificate of Authenticity jointly issued by RJD America LLC and Strasburg Rail Road Mechanical Services.

Orders will ship once the staybolt and cap are removed from C&O 614, inspected, authenticated, stamped, documented, and prepared for shipment as part of the active restoration process. These items are produced on demand, and shipping may take several weeks, though in many cases it may be completed sooner depending on restoration progress.

We cannot guarantee delivery within any specific timeframe or to any requested date. Orders are fulfilled in the order received. 

Tracking information will be emailed once the order ships. Please do not contact us for order status updates until you receive tracking information. Thank you.