Introduced: 1894

Number in Class: 9

U Class Register

Locomotive Specifications

Builder:   NZR Addington

Engine Weight:    38.0 tons	Tender Weight:     23.5 tons	Total Weight:    61.5 tons	Adhesive Weight:     27.0 tons
Length over Buffers:     49' 11½"	Total Wheelbase:    42' 1½"	Engine Wheelbase:    21' 0"	Coupled Wheelbase:     10' 0"
Tender Wheelbase:     13' 0"	Driver Wheel Dia.:    54"	Cylinders HP:     Two - 16" x 20"	Cylinders LP:
Grate Area:    16.0 sq ft	Evaporative Area:     972 sq ft	Superheated Area:	Working Pressure:     160 psig
Tractive Effort:     12136 lbs f	Coal Capacity:    3.1 tons	Oil Capacity:	Water Capacity:     1900 gals

Remarks:     The first tender locomotives in New Zealand to possess definite local characteristics were the handsome 'U' class 4-6-0s. It was this class that introduced the stylish two-window cab and the 4'6" driving wheels that were subsequently regarded as standard for express engines. They were the first express locomotives to use Walschearts valve motion, and were the first to use the 4-6-0 wheel arrangement, although originall designed to use 4-4-0. Despite these firsts, they were not successful on the Canterbury Plains. They were Ok in fine weather but could not keep time on the northward run in the face of fierce "Nor'-westers". Most ended their days on shunting duties at Invercargill.