Firebox glow

Model Railroader Prototype information for the modeler
1

Has anybody seen video/film of a Challenger or Big boy at night?

Or lucky enough to see it in person?

Does firebox glow illuminate the area or track below the box?

Is it visable from the side of the box as the locomotive passes by?

Does the entire cab and tender area glow?

Thanks and Merry Christmas.

2

Yeah, I’ve seen it in person. Not recently.

“area or track below the box”–maybe a very little

“visible from the side of the box”–frequently

The entire cab and tender area most definitely do NOT glow. Yikes!!! Well, if the firebox door is open, some light comes out. But not THAT dramatically.

Light from the fire will be emitted through any openings. In particular, light tends to leak from around the top of the ashpan. With oil fired engines that don’t have ashpans, there’s still an opening there, so they emit light, too.

Ed

3

Thanks Ed

I read about inspection lights near the valve gear. Do you remeber what lights are on when the 4-6-6-4 is moving? When it is sitting idle?

Thanks

Thomas