The Famous “Fell” Locomotives.

The “Fell” locomotives, known to railway-men as class “H,” are used exclusively for this section of railway, These engines have a total weight of 39 tons. Their construction and operation are most interesting. In passing, it may be news to many, to learn that four of the “H” class engines had names painted on their tanks, viz., “Mt. Cook,” Mt. Tongariro,” “Mt. Egmont,” and “Mt. Conis.” It is a pity that the old custom of naming our locomotives has fallen into disuse.) These engines are carried on six wheels of a diameter of 32ins. The two leading pair of wheels are coupled, and the trailing wheels constitute a radial bogie, situated under the cab. The coupled wheels, which have outside bearings, are driven by cylinders 14in. diameter × 16in. stroke. The steam pressure is 1601bs. per sq. inch. Four of the locomotives have Stephenson valve gear, and two are fitted with Joy's patent valve gear, all of which are outside the frames.

At the base of the smokebox are placed the inside cylinders, 12in. diameter by 14in stroke, which actuate the centre engine. This portion of the engine's anatomy presents much out of the common. The inside cylinders drive on to two vertical axles, and these, in turn, are coupled to two other axles, by suitable rods and pinion wheels. These vertical axles work in axleboxes placed in the cross frames. Keyed to the lower ends are cast steel gripping wheels, having page 38 a flat tread. Sufficient play is allowed in the axleboxes to permit of the gripping wheels being brought into compression against the centre rail for the “up” trip, or being swung clear for the “down” trip. This is accomplished by means of powerful compression springs, operated from the engine cab. In addition to the ordinary Westinghouse brake, the engines are equipped with four cast iron shoes on suitable levers, which can be compressed against the centre rail, pressure being applied by means of rods and screw in the usual manner.

It is, of course, very necessary that the speeds of the inside and outside engines should synchronise when hauling trains up the grade. The drivers are very expert at this.