Hi,
2-8-8-2 folio drawings
The RGS 2-8-8-2 based on the K28 (link above) makes a lot more sense to me having tried to work through a K37 Garratt.
K37 Garratt
The RGS never had the track condition to support a K28 much less a 2-8-8-2.
A K28 Garratt (based on at least a C41/K37 boiler) would have worked on Marshall Pass (no bridge loading concerns). It might have worked on Cumbres with the restriction being on the load bearing bridges of Lobato and Cascade.
Would a spacing between K28 locos of about 30-50 feet been enough for safe operation across these two trestles is unknown. A 2-8-8-2 D&RG loco as shown in the proposed folios are also unknown for certain.
If the D&RGW had the cash available for the narrow gauge, six K37s and then a 2-8-8-2 or a 2-8-2+2-8-2 Garratt may have happened.
If the Garratt had been a K28 cylinder and K37 drivers and other parts to make a 2-6-0+0-6-2 Garratt, A better chance at not needing to rebuild Lobato and Cascade bridges would have been there.
Too bad the Rio Grande had not purchased the URy 2-6-6-2Ts.
Fascinating alternate history for the D&RGW.
Thanks for the help.
Doug vV
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 05/04/2015 04:08PM by dougvv.