Norfolk And Western’s No. J 611 Test Run

In what sounds like heavy lifting, you can hear her strain as she flexes her muscles at maximum steam pressure. A powerful machine, the J 611 boiler is rated at 300 psi. and could pull 15 cars at 110 miles per hour!

With a weight of 494,000 lbs., her 27×32 inch cylinders turn her 70 inch driver wheels slowly as she tests the overall steam pressure. Originally built for $251,000 in 1950 by N & W employees, her complete restoration costs could run upwards of $3,500,000 when finished.

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

• Manufacturer: Norfolk and Western Roanoake 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!