An efficient fireperson will fire in anticipation of the engineer's needs at any given point in the journey where, for example, a grade may require more throttle. Over working the engine can also literally suck the incomplete combustion out the stack. Firing any fuel, whether oil or coal, requires an ideal balance between fuel and water consumption and steam pressure. A good engineer works in concert with his/her fireperson to maintain operating pressure and reduction of excessive stack gases aka incomplete combustion. It is no wonder D.C. Buell devotes quite a few pages to firing and combustion in his landmark tome, Basic Steam Locomotive Maintenance, a MUST read for anyone interested in this subject!
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