Liberty Belle breakdown, and Mark Twain disassembly?

[mikeymouse]

Is the paddlewheel just a show piece or does it actually move the boat. Doesn't seem to be that deep into the water to do much. I also wonder how she makes the turn to go backstage. There has to be a switch. Maybe she passes the spur and then comes backward in.

 

[PK2]

My family would be devastated if LB and TSI were ever to go away completely. On busy Summer/Winter vacation days they provide something that allows us to lean on a rail or sit on a bench and look over at how absolutely manic it is (gets us through those difficult hours on NYE before dinner!) They're such amazing escapism like nothing else in the park.

I'm really glad to see LB getting love.

 

[peter11435]

Is the paddlewheel just a show piece or does it actually move the boat. Doesn't seem to be that deep into the water to do much. I also wonder how she makes the turn to go backstage. There has to be a switch. Maybe she passes the spur and then comes backward in.

It actually moves the boat

 

[DisAl]

Yes, the paddlewheel provides propulsion, and the engine is a real steam engine. Although it is a "reproduction" it is authentic and correct for a riverboat.
This may be wordsmithing, but the Liberty Belle is GUIDED by an underwater rail, but it is not ON the rail. The boat is floating.