What is a 38's theoretic top speed?

Graham Morphett (grahamm@onthenet.com.au)
Fri, 17 Oct 1997 08:01:21 +1000

I have several drivers in my family who swear that they have had various
38's past 100mph (160k) - mostly downhill I think!!! One occasion was
the downhill section into Campbelltown northbound. Apparently the tender
was throwing coal at the driver, fireman and anyone silly enough to be
standing within 10 feet of the track - which would have made for an
interesting time as the train went through Campbelltown station (there
is no claim that they were still doing that speed through there).

All of this occurred during the years of normal running - actually in
the 50's (when men were men).

I understand that some pretty fast runs took place past Tuggerah
southbound as well. 80mph was common and again "my" drivers assure me
they nudged 100 up there too.

Has anyone done the calcs to show what a 38 can really do?

Graham