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!
