Luz y Fuerza Cochabamba 2-6-0 Locomotives in Bolivia

Class Simon I Patino (Locobase 15186)

Data from DeGolyer Library, Vol 66, pp. 372. See also W L Schurz, Bolivia: A Commercial and Industrial Handbook, Special Agents Series, Issue 208 (Washington, DC: Government Printing Office, 1921), pp. 48-49. Works number was 55294 in March 1922.

This light and power company served the city of Cochabamba,, which lies on a plain about four miles from the Cordillera Oriental and is bisected by the Rio Rocha. In Bolivia, an elevation of 8,446 feet above sea level (2,575 metres) is considered "relatively low altitude." Schurz observed that one result was a "very pleasant" climate throughout the year. LyFC operated not only the power generators but also the city's tramway (not unusual) and two narrow-gauge railway branches to Vinto and Arani. The latter lay at the end of the Punata valley, about 60 km (37.3 miles) from Cochabamba

This superheated Mogul could burn wood or coal; the tender weight shown is the higher figure of the tender carrying five cords of wood. Coal capacity came to 3 1/2 short tons (3,175 kg) and tender loaded weight ws 48,800 lb (22,135 kg). Hotter steam meant piston valves, those on the 8 measuring 8" (203 mm) in diameter.

Some time after its arrival, the 8 was converted to the metre gauge. It later was sold to the Cochabamba Santa Cruz, which renumbered it 5. The FCCSC ultimately was nationalized.