LEVIATHAN ENGINE.

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLIX, Issue 80, 4 March 1929, Page 3

LEVIATHAN ENGINE.

TO BURN NEW ZEALAND COAL. REMODELLED IN DOMINION. DUNEDIN, March 2. Remodelled, enlarged and equipped with all the latest devices known to railway engineering, a monster goods engine has just been completed, at the Hillside workshops. There is an air of patriotism. about this locomotive which is worth noting. Firstly, it stands out as a striking example of what local industry can do, and the workmen who have been engaged upon it cannot possibly gaze on their protege without a feeling of pride; secondly, it has been fitted out with a wide* fire box in ordor that the department shall be able to carry out its commondable policy of burning nothing but New Zealand coal. The job of building it from an old model was commenced about six weeks ago, and this morning the life-giving steam to set it in motion was being infused. A short trial run in the yards has already proved that the leviathan is an undoubted success. Standing higher than any other engine on the tracks, and showing a dis-

tinct Continental style as regards ; its lines, this locomotive is a thing', of power and beauty, quite the most imposing of its type running on the Dominion’s iron trail. Its destiny is. fixed for either a north line or a south line. It depends upon where heavy loads are going, because its 4-8-0 wheel arrangement is especially potent in big pulls. The engine is equipped with the latest type of M.L.S. superheating attachment, autosteam snifter valve and numerous other modern contrivances. The steps for the drivers, fireman and shunters are made safe by a covering of material which prevents slipping, and access to the engine’s “inwards” is easy. The new freighter is one of a coming family of five.