Climax#3 Geared Locomotive

Climax#3 Geared Locomotive | Train Fanatics Videos

Climax #3 was built to take on the rough, curvy, lightweight tracks of the logging industry!

Built by the Climax Manufacturing Company back in 1910, this locomotive was one of 1,100 built for the logging and mining industries.

Initially conceived and designed in 1878 by a lumberman (Darwin Scott) from Pennsylvania, the Climax geared steam locomotive could go where normal steam locomotives could not due to their size.

Shorter in length due to its geared design, made it ideal to handle tight curves and the up and down terrain on the lightweight temporary tracks in and around the logging camps and mines.

Note: The two side cylinders mounted at a 30 degree angle! This was done to eliminate the gear shift as part of the overall design.

Seen here in Durbin, West Virgina, the Climax #3 about to start her journey on the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad. This excursion is known as the Durbin Rocket Excursion train and takes passengers along the Greenbrier River. Durbin, West Virgina, is located about 40 minutes from the famous Cass Scenic Railway.

Some quick facts about he Climax#3 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 ever had a chance to go on this excursion of have seen this locomotive up close. We would lover to hear about your experience!

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