Cass Scenic Railroad Parade of Smoke & Steam
One by one, starting with the front engine, they sound off a mean chorus of steam whistles!
Five geared steam locomotives are shown including four Shay’s (#2,4 5,11) and a Climax (#9) in the lead. Shay Locomotive #2 is sporting a Norfolk & Western “Hooter” whistle and Shay locomotive #4 is sounding off a Lunkenheimer whistle.
The Cass Scenic Railroad an 11-mile long stretch located in Cass, Pocahontas County, West Virginia and is the unofficial home of the geared locomotive!
The Classic Shay and Climax locomotives are sometimes called the “Sidewinders”.
With a geared locomotive, you will not see the stereotypical driving wheels, but rather some fascinating gears and crank shafts working in harmony that really makes you appreciate the engineering that when into this locomotive.
Some quick facts about he Climax #9 geared steam locomotive
- Builder – Climax Locomotive Works – Corry, Pennsylvania
- Build date – 1910
- locomotive weight – 55 tons
- Class B (newer) with angled Cylinders to 25-45 degrees
Let us know if you have had the chance to see a geared locomotive in person. We would love to hear about your experience!
