7.5" gauge steam locomotive test run at Train Mountain

In this video Katie and I ride the 0-4-2T+T 7.5" gauge steam locomotive "Poke'" at Train Mountain after the Operations Meet in 2023. This is filmed from Katie's perspective on the flat car so you can ride along if you like. We wanted to see if the burners and firing setup could maintain steam while climbing long steep grades with a short train.

[@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!