Zig Zag Railway: Baldwin Steam Locomotive 218a Training Run (includes Driver challenges…)

Prior to a scheduled workshop overhaul, Baldwin steam locomotive 218a will climb Middle Road tender first to Top Points with compromised sand lines. With a working grade on the Great Lithgow Zig Zag of approximately 1 in 40, sand is often applied when hauling a heavy load or on the first morning run when the rails are wet with dew, ice or snow. Fine sand is carried on the locomotive and applied to the rails to aid traction some but with some sand lines awaiting replacement, 218A struggles on the steeply graded Middle Road. Such conditions form an important part of driver/fireman training sessions on the Zig Zag Railway.

Watch the difference in traction when 218a climbs ‘boiler first’ from Top Points at full steam ahead along Top Road to Clarence!

For more information and May 27th booking details, see our official site: https://zigzagrailway.au/

I’m guiding a series of small group, narrow gauge rail tours to Taiwan and Japan. Highlights of our Taiwan tour is a visit to the spectacular Alishan Forest Railway which climbs from sea level to 2.200m in just 75 kilometers and on special occasions, still operates three Shay geared locomotives!