Re: Daydreaming - steam-powered speed record

[dbromage@fang.omni.com.au (David Bromage)]

David Martin (d_martin@mountains.net.au) wrote:
> When I win the Powerball Jackpot.....

> How about a new Sydney to Lithgow speed record? Using a steam loco?

Sydney to Newcastle in 105 minutes first, then Lithgow. :)

> Given a thorough overhaul, how fast could 3801 go?!

Not as fast as 3830. 3801 was always the worst performer of the entire
class.

> I'll use Talgo Pendular carriages, with lightweight alloy construction.

Passive tilting only gains about a 10-15% speed advantage on curves.
Active tilting can gain you 30%. Bring back the X2000!

> How about an oil-fired boiler? With computer controlled combustion?

You're almost getting to the stage of building a new loco, that way you
can avoid heritage considerations. Don't forget to do a Wardale on it. :)

Cheers
David