Re: firebox size on K36 and K37's

Iowa Interstate QJs both have operational stokers and we have coal cutters as well. Usually run with two fireman who switch from trimming fire with shovel to maning the seat. I can tell you with hand bombing those it is a LONG way to the front. I have used the Chinese shovels and they have a different angle or pitch compared to the traditional scoop. Now the JS class 2-8-2 has a 56 or 54 square foot grate surface and it more manageable to hand fire. The two QJs have feed water pumps the JS dose not. My only steam experience is with these three locos. I always wondered what it would be like to fire a narrow guage Mike.

Below is a video of me in fireman seat a few years ago on IAIS QJ 7081

[youtu.be]

Dan