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Mountain
Type 4-8-2


 

 

by Omer Lavallee
 
The 4-8-2 evolved as a lengthened version of the 4-6-2 "Pacific Type", which was covered in the previous instalment. The additional pair of driving wheels which this new type afforded provided for distribution of locomotive weight over more wheels - hence a lighter axle load. It also provided space for a longer boiler with greater steam generating capacity, both decided advantages in mountainous territory where grades abounded and bridges with restricted loadings were not uncommon. Hence the designation "Mountain Type" given to this wheel
 
arrangement, one which enjoyed great popularity on many North American railways.
 
Canadian Pacific introduced the "Mountain Type" to Canada by outshopping the two units of what was originally class H1 in July and August 1914, on the eve of the First World War. As the Company already possessed special locomotives for the Rocky Mountain area, the 4-8-2s were not intended for mountain service, but rather for heavier services in comparatively level country. In this assignment, however, they were unexceptional. A few years' operation convinced management that what was
 
really required was a heavy 4-6-2 type rather than an engine with more driving wheels. The result was the introduction of the very successful G3 class 4-6-2 type in 1919, after the First World War was over.
 
The 2900s remained on the roster until 1944-45, giving up their class letter "H" to the new 4-6-4s in 1928, and taking the designation "I1". They served much of their careers running out of terminals on what is now the Atlantic Region, including Montreal, Sherbrooke and, latterly, Saint John, N.B.