7.5" gauge steam locomotive test run at Train Mountain

[@OlavCleemann-himself]

Thanks for the ride :-)

[@GWIRailroad]

Outstanding video, the steam engine did great. Thank You for sharing the video. Wayne

[@AMcVC382]

Good to see loco earning its keep. Was a bear to fire with coal. Have fun!

[@ccootsona]

It's a great little locomotive! My eyes appreciate not having cinders in them too.

[@crbrew7974]

good job Craig!

[@ccootsona]

Thanks! I had lots of good advice on the burner setup from Jeff Mills, Courtney Jones, and Jerry Crane. Can't go wrong with their combined experience.

[@dogprowilhelm7630]

Do you use distilled water for the boiler? It reduces scaling deposits, that can cause clogs and less corrosive on the storage tank.

[@ccootsona]

I use a boiler water treatment that prevents corrosion and scaling, so I'm able to take water at most tanks along the line. I've seen the effects of improper or non-existant water treatment on full size locomotive boilers so I take care to protect it. I also blow down frequently, especially during fire-up, and wash out between runs to remove the solids. I can't recall the manufacturer off hand but the treatment is available though most live steam suppliers.

[@mzaccaria6291]

Hi Craig thanks for sharing this great video. What is the smallest radius curve your engine could negotiate? Marty

[@ccootsona]

Thanks for the kind words. I don't know the minimum radius but the wheelbase is fairly short given that the two drivers are small and close to one another. The trailing axle has a fair bit of lateral motion in the swing arrangement so I would guess it could negotiate something like a 20' radius.

[@mzaccaria6291]

@@ccootsona Thank you for your reply. My backyard rr has 17 foot radius curves and in my research I found that 0-4-0 can take 15' radius. I am looking for a small steam engine for my first and probably only!