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Wab Class
CLASS  Wab    4-6-4 T


Introduced: 1917 Number in Class: 16

Wab Class Register





Locomotive Specifications

Builder:
   NZR Addington (1)
   NZR Hillside (12)
   A & G Price Ltd., Thames (3)

Engine Weight:    
71.5 tons
Tender Weight:     Total Weight:    71.5 tons Adhesive Weight:    
42.0 tons
Length over Buffers:    
44' 5"
Total Wheelbase:    33' 1" Engine Wheelbase:    33' 1" Coupled Wheelbase:    
10' 0"
Tender Wheelbase:     Driver Wheel Dia.:    54" Cylinders HP:    
Two - 17" x 26"
Cylinders LP:    
Grate Area:    33.0 sq ft Evaporative Area:    
1146 sq ft
Superheated Area:    
277 sq ft
Working Pressure:    
200 psig
Tractive Effort:    
22260 lbs f
Coal Capacity:    3.0 tons Oil Capacity:     Water Capacity:    
1700 gals

Remarks:     A tank version of the famous 'Ab', these massive, capable-looking locomotives were originally designated 'Ws'. Both Classes were identical in principle dimensions, the chief differences being the positioning of the sand domes and the distribution of weight. The 'Ws' was intended for suburban haulage and the 'Wab' for short-distance main-line work. this distinction continued until 1932-35, when the 'Ws' locomotives were redesignated 'Wab'. It was in suburban passenger service at Auckland and Wellington that the 'Wab'; made its mark. Fourteen classed W's until 1930s. Eleven rebuilt to Ab class 1947-1957. The design was intended for use on the North Island Main Trunk between Taihape and Taumarunui, but ended up in various places throughout the country and excelled in suburban passenger work, when they were fitted with an American "Delta" trailing truck for bunker first running. A large number of 'Ab' drawings was used in its design.

Preserved Locomotives
  Feilding & Districts Steam Rail Society,    Fielding -     Wab 794,     NZR Hillside #251/1927   Operating
  Glenbrook Vintage Railway,    Auckland -     Wab 800,     A&G Price #117/1926   Stored