Broadway Limited Imports
Powerhouse Classics(TM) Steam USRA Heavy 2-8-2 Powered w/Sound & DCC
Fort Worth & Denver E4a #455
Walthers Part # 187-249
HO scale, $229.99, sold out at Walthers
Following the federal takeover of the nation's railroads in late 1917, the
United States Railroad Administration (USRA) began developing standardized
locos-a radical idea at the time-to create a national pool of engines that
could be operated anywhere they were needed. Using common parts also
simplified construction and repair. Among these designs was a heavy 2-8-2
for roads where track and bridges would support an engine slightly larger
than a light Mikado. While 233 were built under USRA control, the design
proved to be popular and over 900 copies were built with minor variations.
Some 27 different railroads owned heavy "Mikes," many of which were later
upgraded and rebuilt, and served until the end of steam.
This new series of models closely follows the original design, but includes
some unique features to match the owners preferences such as headlight
type, and road or footboard pilots. Engines will operate on 18" radius
curves.
