PRR 4-6-2 Pacific's

Model Railroader Prototype information for the modeler
1

Can anybody tell me the difference between a slatted pilot and a cast pilot on a PRR K4? I’m looking at Broadway Limited’s new K4’s and can’t make out in there photo!

Thanks

Sheldon

2

The slatted pilots were made of iron flat bars riveted together. The cast pilots were introduced post WW2 and was a solid casting with integral key hole looking poling pocket/step configuration.

Slatted pilot.

http://digital.denverlibrary.org/cdm/ref/collection/p15330coll22/id/64052

Cast pilot.

http://www.northeast.railfan.net/images/prr518s.jpg

The cast pilot added a drop coupler and added much needed weight to the front end. It was shown that the added weight decreased the hunting of the front end and made the locomotive handle the increase in speed.

Pete

3

Here is a better shot of the bar or slatted pilot. http://www.northeast.railfan.net/images/prr945s.jpg

Here are 3 pictures of the same loco. #1120.

1939

http://www.northeast.railfan.net/images/prr1120b.jpg

1941 with streamlining shrouds.

http://www.northeast.railfan.net/images/prr1120.jpg

And again in 1957. The last year of operation and a few months before the torch.

http://www.northeast.railfan.net/images/prr1120a.jpg

Pete

4

Thanks Pete, I see the difference now, thank you!

Sheldon

5

Also note that the generator was moved from behind the stack to the boiler front. Most favor the original with slatted pilot. I like the modern though.