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Behind the Scenes
Santa Cruz, California
Last Visited: April 2010
An ACE event at SCBB provided us the good fortune and the rare opportunity to take a sneak peek behind the scenes at some of the classic seaside park's most beloved attractions.
We start off the tour with the highlight of the park, the old-as-hell Giant Dipper
Our guide, the communications manager for the park, makes sure everyone is decent backstage
A pair of knowledgeable mechanics answer many a nerdy maintenance question
The flywheel that gears up the lift motor
Some extra lift chain
Here's where the chain enters the motor house
Another beloved SCBB attraction, the almost-Disney-esque Cave Train
Here, we actually got to precariously walk the track
Thanks, happy to be here
Step right up, gentlemen...
Little did I know the trains were battery-powered. Here's the proof!
The only way those little batteries can power these big trains is with a completely level track
Another gem, the 1911 Looff Carousel
One of the two authentic and stunning pipe organs, plus Carousel reflection
Underneath the carousel, those metal spikes are the bottom of the horse poles and will rise and fall as the ride moves
The ancient ring machine, collecting rings and bringing up to the ring arm, ready for people to grab...and steal. (30000-40000 a year, apparently!)
Back above ground, it's finally time for some riding
Gotta love the high fives. Lawyers be damned!