Norfolk Southern Diesel Surprise !

Looks can be deceiving at first!

Where else but North Carolina would be a better setting for the “Roanoker”? Making runs in and around Greensboro, N&W J-611 sounds off with her fully throated whistle to make chills run up and down your spine!

With a weight of 494,000 lbs., her 27×32 inch cylinders turn her 70 inch driver wheels, she handles grades, no problem!

Originally built for $251,000 in 1950 by N & W employees, her complete restoration costs ran 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!