Re: WW&F RR #9

As noted in the earlier post, number 9 has a union casting that joins the main and tail frame at the firebox. When #9 was built in 1891 there was no connection due to the original Hinkley design that the engines front was the tender. Running tender first there wouldn't be stress on the cab/tender frame.

The practice of running tender first didn't last and the Maine two footers mostly ran boiler first. Due to the change in operating practice the Portland Company made improvements in locomotive design. Number 9's union casting is based on the changes made when B&SR number 5 was built in 1906. That locomotive, (construction number 628) had a number of upgrades including the union casting and a pony truck.

Stewart