Norfolk & Western Class 'A' Tender Versions

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The three tender classes shown below represent the basic configurations used with the class 'A' locomotives. Based on recently completed extended research, there were a total of six (6) tender variations used with this prototype, including the original class B units used with the original build order. We will limit our tender variations to three (3) along with the appropriate road numbers. While the construction of each class was reasonably consistent, the details and features varied somewhat from locomotive to locomotive. Steam lines, signal lines and steam heat for the cupola were among the items that changed, these details will be correctly reflected with each road number we produce. (The illustration provided below as mentioned are representative of the tenders that will be used for this project, but the details of the drawings have not been modified to show the results of the latest research. Further information on this subject will be provided as the project progresses).

The Version 22-C (above) tenders were rebuilt and modernized for use with road numbers 1213-1234 (excluding 1223). This tender is almost identical to those used with the N&W Y6a except for the Commonwealth trucks. The side sheeting of the tank is built up in three layers and this detail is included on the model. Notice the frame mounted brake cylinder located between the front and rear trucks.

The Version 22-H (above) tenders were rebuilt from the original class 'B' tenders, they were modernized for use with road numbers 1201-1209 (excluding 1203 & 1206). This tender class was also utilized with mid-version Y6b class locomotives. Being a slightly later rebuild than the 22-C, the construction is cleaner with fewer seams in the sheeting and there were also fewer rivets used in favor of a greater use of welding. The brake cykinder is mounted on the mid-section of the underframe. Commonwealth trucks were again standard equipment with this rebuild.

The Version 22-I (above) tenders were very similar to the 'H' class tenders and they were also used with the Y6b locomotive class. Although there was only one class designation, there were multiple versions of the 22-I tender with the difference being in the tank construction (the number of seams and rivets). The tenders used with road numbers 1235-1242 were the last series built and they were the most modern in construction and appearance, by the time these tenders were built, welded seams had become the standard, this version was built new. Although this tender version still utilized Commonwealth trucks, the trucks now carried individual brake cylinders mounted on the front and rear truck frames.

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