@Hot Water How would you describe operating the 1361 compared to SP 4449? How much of difference is there for the engineer to operate a coal fired locomotive vs an oil fired locomotive? What are the little nuances and/or characteristics of being in each cab?
@JD2035RR posted:@Hot Water How would you describe operating the 1361 compared to SP 4449?
First, the 1361 is an early 20th century design (1918?), while the SP GS-3/4/5 class locomotives are all very late 1930s design, "Super Power" locomotives. Second, the 4449 is VERY high HP as compared to 1361, and is equipped with a frontend throttle arrangement and is a "limited cut-off" design (the PRR K4s locomotives are all full stroke valve arrangement).
How much of difference is there for the engineer to operate a coal fired locomotive vs an oil fired locomotive?
On a coal fired locomotive, the Engineer generally doesn't have to pay much attention to the Fireman, while on an oil fired locomotive the Fireman MUST pay VERY close attention to EXACTLY what the Engineer is doing with the throttle and valve gear, both of witch seriously affect the draft to the fire thus controls how much oil the firebox can properly burn. A good Engineer on an oil burner, always lets his Fireman know what he is going to do next with the throttle, and a good Fireman can tell by the sound of the exhaust what is happening with the power reverse gear.
What are the little nuances and/or characteristics of being in each cab?
Hard to properly explain, especially since I spent only one weekend on 1361, while I've got over 40 years with 4449 (and about 17 years with UP 844 and 3985).
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