Vista Dome Buffet Lounge Dorm
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Vista Dome Buffet Lounge Dorm Diagram
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Two of the remaining five have been converted to open-end cars. These cars are in private use, and the problem is, there are no vestibules. In other words, there's no way to get in. This car contained no revenue seating, so there was no reason to accommodate boarding when it was designed.
The Silver Lounge (Sierra Hotel) conversion has been accomplished by creating the observation platform in place of the two end restrooms. This is the left end in the diagram above. As this end was the forward end, this car is now actually positioned the opposite direction, allowing the platform to be at the rear. Dome seating has been converted to dining tables, so direction isn't an issue.
Silver Chalet continues to face the right direction, but has seen major modifications including a round-end observation platform, larger windows and interior changes.

Name Road Number Built Current Status  
Silver Club CB&Q 250 11/1948 Owned by and in use on the North Shore Scenic Railroad. It has been refurbished for use on their line. Some restoration is still in progress (example: the bathrooms are in operation yet). To contribute to the restoration, visit their donation page. Photos
Silver Lounge CB&Q 251 11/1948 Now known as Sierra Hotel. Converted to open-end observation car. Photos Needed
Silver Roundup CB&Q 252 11/1948 Scrapped after fire in WP yard. WP gave CB&Q Silver Chalet in exchange. Photos Needed
Silver Shop D&RGW 1140 11/1948 Very complete, but rough condition. Like Silver Club, one of two surviving in original configuration. Owned by Phil Sheridan. This car is currently for sale. Details here. Photos
Silver Chalet WP 831 11/1948 Exchanged for Silver Roundup after Roundup was destroyed by fire. Became BN 252, but retained Silver Chalet name. Converted to a rounded open-end observation car. Damaged by fire in April 2003, doing $130,000 in damage. Car is to be repaired. Photos
Silver Hostel WP 832 11/1948 FRRS-Portola Railroad Museum, Portola, CA. Stored indoors. Awaiting restoration. As of August 2003, the museum reports that they now have all parts necessary to begin rebuilding the car. The last hurdle is $30,000 for dome glass. Photos

 

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