Ergonomics and associated annoyances

The engine is narrow, so you sit ( when you can sit) right next to the cutoff quadrant. The brakestands are higher than you and require reaching up and back. Slide valves do not oil all that great so adjusting the cutoff requires a "Death Grip"-and a foot against the window post-to adjust. The engine has a "rubber throttle", and like to drift shut itself off, so you need to keep a hand on that as well. 473 and 488 also have that problem. It's a deckless engine- so communication wit the fireman is difficult. Other than all that it is fun to run! The ride was excellent- though it is a little top-heavy and rocks gently from side to side. It is a strictly a 15 mph locomotive.