The Climax Locomotive

by Dennis Blake Thompson, Richard Dunn

Along with its competitors—Shay, Heisler, Willamette—these geared engines tolerated track that was thrown down on the slightest of roadbeds, through creeks, around sharp curves, and up grades far beyond the abilities of all but rack railroads. These qualities appealed to mining and logging operations where the low speed, constant lubrication and shopping were acceptable. The Climax was built from 1888 to 1928 in two foot to eight foot gauges weighing from 12 to 90 tons and advertised to run on wood or iron rails. Here are some 650 b&w photos of the funny little beasts. Only a certifiable foamer could care about the dozens of pages that track the 1,035 units built. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

497 pages, Hardcover

First published August 1, 2002