what was it like to drive the steam train ' the jupiter' and the general?

Question

that steam train is the only ones i always wanted to try driving... is it easy to drive though? would it of been fun to drive? would u have got a clear view of the track from the front windows...

Answer 1

Hello M. I've had just one opportunity to pilot a steam engine. This was on the Grand Canyon RR. The Jupiter was much smaller than the eight drivered GC RR power, but just the same, they are fun. The trick is not to spin the wheels when starting out. Really easy to do on the small 40 ton locos like the Jupiter. Steam is actually quite similar to a diesel. Move the throttle lever to go. And apply the brake lever to draw off air pressure to stop. These functions take some practice, of course, to perform with out busting things up. Originally, the Jupiter, or any early 4-4-0 wouldn't have had air brakes, but brakemen manually applying brakes to each car. In a steam engine, there's more to keep an eye on, than in a diesel. There's water level, steam pressure, the firebox, and the Johnson Bar position. As far as visibility, it's adequate, but the left side is a blind spot out to about 100 yards forward.

Answer 2

Ther General is still in service for tourist/rail fan events. The front car of the train is a disguised diesel loco to help it pull a modern train over the gradients; the controls are hidden in a dummy brake stand on the real tender.

Answer 3

Good subject to dream.

You can have better view of track from any Locomotive other than a steam one.

Happy driving.