Re: "I Think I Can . . . "

True! That helper was at Baird Tx where the yard was on a 1/2 % grade that changed to 1.3 % at the last switch. It could pull into Baird up the first part of the 1.3% that was short. But that last 7 miles leaving west was too much after they added 700 tons to a 3300 ton train, even the booster equipped 0-8-0 had to work hard shoving up the hill. After the grade the 4000 tons was no problem. And Russo: It could NOT out pull a new dismal. (That's a diesel for you un-educated folks).

Now a better (maybe harder to believe) story. In Louisiana T&P dispatched jazzed up USRA mikes with 10,000 tons New Orleans (after the bridge) to Alexandria La. again dependent on a yard engine to help it get going. It could roll with it but, not start it. Of course the line was basically gradeless. The fun was over at Alexandria because Shreveport was a little over 140 ft altitude. some 60 ft higher than Alexandria and when a mosquito hitched a ride,-------------- well that was just to much..



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 05/05/2017 03:27PM by Tomstp.