2-8-2 Steam Locomotives in India

Class 27 (Locobase 21281)

Data from "Narrow Gauge Superheater Locomotive for the North Western State Ry of India", Locomotive Magazine, Volume XXXII [ 32] (15 January 1926). Works numbers were 22766-22733 in 1919

Consulting engineers Messrs Rendel, Palmer, and Tritton tweaked the BESA narrow-gauge Mikado design to produce this superheated 2-8-2. Dimensions and weights confirm the small-scale, but the accompanying photograph suggests a massive presence. The slab-sided square-shouldered Belpaire firebox contributed to the effect as did the large cab-tender shelter for the footplate crew.

Class unknown (Locobase 4088)

Pittsburgh builder's data from a compilation by B Rumary supplied by Allen Stanley in March 2004. See also "Pittsburg [sic] Locomotives for the Indian State Railway", Railway Age, Volume 31 (24 May 1901), p. 561. The works numbers were 2231-2238 in May-June 1901.

Interesting Mikado tank delivered to Karachee (sic, according to the 31 May 1901 Railroad Gazette) for work on the Mushkaf-Bolan division. It was a big engine, one of the biggest tank engines of this wheel arrangement operated anywhere.

About their physical appearance and approach, RG commented: "These engines are of more than ordinary interest in that they combine to an unusual degree an assemblage of recognized British ideas, of long standing, with many of the most recent developments of the American types of locomotives." Taking advantage of the possibilities for increased adhesive weight represented by the side tanks, they were extended as far forward as possible.