Re: Doubling 216/Cinder Bear out of Chama: Switching at Cumbres

Downhill, 4% grade, 150 odd tons of engine, you need some additional braking power besides the brakes on the engine tender.

Can't overdo use of
the engine driver brakes as slipping driver tires is a possibility if they get overheated.....Not good at all!

Use of the drifting throttle is good too...Reverse lever a few notches in back motion, drifting throttle open to give wet steam to cylinders to
aid in speed retarding, plus keep the poppet valves closed to avoid
burning away lubrication in the cylinders due to air ingestion.

More cars hitched on behind gives more braking ability to keep things
from getting too exciting on the way downhill...