snowtownbob Wrote:
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> The WHR has two real tunnels (as opposed to short
> ones through individual rock spurs) and both are
> on 1in40 (2.5%) grades. So the locomotives face
> downhill with the chimneys in the rear when the
> loco is climbing in a tunnel, thus sparing the
> train crew exposure to fumes and smoke.
> Unfortunately nothing can be done for the paying
> customers, but the perfect is the enemy of the
> good.
>
> There were, of course, oil fired SG locos in USA
> which ran cab first for exactly the same reason.
>
> Bob Gartside
True, the SP cab forwards were an answer to smoke problems in long tunnels.
If the Brecon line ever extends through the tunnel and they do not turn their locomotives (as is the case now) then the crew will have it better in one direction. The BMR Baldwins and replica Baldwins would be running in reverse on one trip through the bore. Looking at the photos of the tunnel, it's back is fairly high so there would be good clearance around a two-foot gauge train with the track centered.
As noted before, land ownership, permits, time and funds will tell if the BMR ever builds on through the tunnel but the 4-6-2 working out of the portal would be a great photo op!
Stewart