N&W E2a

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

What would be a good substitute for a N&W E2a in HO? I’ve done a search and no manufacturer makes one specifically so I’d have to take a similar pacific and modify one. Any good ideas? Has anyone done this? (yes I have done a search via this forum first and a google search.)

Thanks

2

Closest one I can think of is the Bowser NYC K-11. Overall size is similar and the 69" drivers are very close to the 70" drivers used on the E2a. Unfortunately, it’s cast metal which means more work modifying it, but it can be done. While the Bowser engine is no longer made, one or more will frequently show up on eBay.

Andre

3

There was one on e-bay a month ago. IDk on the pricing of brass though:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/N-amp-W-Norfolk-amp-western-4-6-2-E2a-steam-engine-NWSL-mint-condition-/281471040092?nma=true&si=BsyyMMW7Qc12EJtiRnRDALcU%252FtE%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2557

Some decent detail shots of it…

Brasstrains.com might have one

4

If you are looking for a close enough. I would go with the bli pacific (usra). The locomotive is not right, but if you add tail light and paint it… It will look OK, but most importantly it will run awesome.

I vote for “it works” over it looks prefect.

5

Actually the N&W E-2 was imported by NWSL in 3 variations. The as-built 1910 version, 1920-30 version and the later version with the 18,000G/26T tender. All 3 versions had appropriate detail differences. They were nice engines and ran well but a little noisy. They are regulars on feeBay and most brass hobby shops.

The closest substitute non-brass engine is the Bowser NYC that has been mentioned. Very close and a fun project.

The NWSL 9,000G/14T and 18,000G/26T tenders are also feeBay regulars. USRA 10,000G tenders from Sunset, Akane and others also show up often.

Roger Huber

Deer Creek Locomotive Works