QJ Class Locomotives Doubleheader In Iowa
Iowa State Railroad Steam Doubleheader Pulls Record Revenue Freight Tonnage!
Captured in West Liberty, Iowa, the Iowa State Railroad was pulling a revenue freight with these Chinese QJ Class locomotives that were acquired after being withdrawn from use in China.
The wheel arrangement of the QJ Class locomotive mirrors the 2-10-2 Santa Fe type used on the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway back in 1903.
The QJ class is named after <strong>Qian Jin which means to go forward. The locomotives were Americanized once delivered with changes to American headlights and whistles. Additionally, all red paint was repainted black with white trim on the running boards.
Some quick facts about the QJ steam locomotive
- builder – Datong QJ – 1968-1970
- Configuration – 2-10-2 wheel arrangement
- Drivers – 59 inch diameters
- Length – 85 feet including tender
- Weight – 131 tons
- Maximum speed – 50 miles per hour
- Tractive effort – 63,235 lbf
Let us know if you ever had the chance to see these locomotives in action! We would love to hear about your experience!
