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!
