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

Etrump Wrote:
=======================================================
> 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...

..exactly. I ran a lot of trains off the hill that way. No big deal.

Open the drifting throttle, put a few notches back of center, cycle the air just like you'd do on a regular train.