Ep 7. Locomotive Builder

In Dirty Jobs season 5 episode 7, titled "Locomotive Builder," host Mike Rowe takes on the task of building a locomotive from scratch. The episode follows Rowe as he travels to Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, to work with the Midwest Railway Preservation Society. The group is made up of railroad enthusiasts who are dedicated to preserving and operating antique railway equipment.

Rowe begins his journey by meeting with the group's leader, who shows him around the shop where they are working on building a steam locomotive. As soon as Rowe arrives, he gets right to work, donning a welder's helmet and joining in the team's efforts to build the locomotive.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to an inside look at the construction of a locomotive. Rowe shares his experience as he helps to build the frame, install the boiler, and assemble the various parts of the engine. He also learns about the various components of a steam locomotive, including the steam dome, cab, and tender.

The work is grueling, and Rowe finds himself covered in grease and dirt at the end of each day. However, he takes it all in stride, and his enthusiasm for the project shines through in every scene.

Along the way, Rowe also takes time to learn about the history of locomotives in the United States. He meets with experts who share their knowledge about the role that steam engines played in the country's development, as well as the challenges faced by railroad workers during the early days of trains.

One of the highlights of the episode is when Rowe is given the opportunity to operate a steam locomotive himself. He climbs into the cab and takes the controls, chugging down the tracks at a slow pace. Although he is only in control for a short time, Rowe quickly realizes the magnitude of the responsibility that comes with operating such a powerful machine.

Overall, "Locomotive Builder" is a fascinating episode that provides a rare glimpse into the world of railroad enthusiasts and the construction of a steam locomotive. Rowe's enthusiasm and willingness to get his hands dirty make him the perfect host for this type of show, and viewers are sure to be entertained and educated by the time the episode comes to a close.