N & S J611 On The Linden Grade

The 0.5% Linden Grade rises 6 inches every 100 feet!

Most most modern locomotives can only pull 200 tons on 0.5% grade instead of the normal 1000 tons on a flat grade.

Norfolk & Southern’s J611 is seen here trying to climb the Linden Grade in Virginia during a rain storm that makes the task infinitely more difficult.

A powerful locomotive, the J 611 boiler is rated at 300 psi. and could pull 15 cars at 110 miles per hour on flat terrain!

With a weight of 494,000 lbs., her 27×32 inch cylinders power her 70 inch driver wheels.

Some quick facts about Norfolk and Western’s J-Class #611

• Manufacturer: Norfolk and Western Roanoke Shops
• build date: 1950
• Wheel alignment: 4-8-4
• Drivers: 70 inches
• Locomotive and tender weight combined: 872,600 lbs
• Maximum speed: 110 MPH

Let us know if you have ever seen this magnificent machine rolling down the tracks. We would love to hear your comments!