K-37 and K-36

[YellowHillsCentral]

Hey Y'all,

I was just looking at the D&RGW's narrow gauge roster and thought what is the difference between the K37 and the K36. I know the K37 was made from a standard gauge consolidation, is the 36 as well. Whats the difference?

Thanks,
CSLM

[Charlie Mutschler]

The K-36 class locomotive were built for the D&RGW by Baldwin in 1925.  These 2-8-2s were the last new locomotives acquired for the D&RGW narrow gauge.  The D&RGW considered several options for additional narrow gauge locomotives.  In 1928 and 1930 it converted ten aging standard gauge 2-8-0s into narrow gauge 2-8-2s using new running gear supplied by Baldwin.  The running gear was virtually identical to that used on the K-36 class locomotives, but the length was adjusted to suit the boilers from the standard gauge 2-8-0s.  The K-37s utilized the boilers, cabs, tenders, and tender trucks of the standard gauge locomotives.  The tender trucks were re-gauged for use on the K-37s by squeezing the wheels in on the axles.  These ten locomotives were the last steam locomotives placed in service on the D&RGW narrow gauge. 

Charlie Mutschler

[YellowHillsCentral]

Thanks a ton

[DRGW481]

If you look at them side by side you will also notice a difference in the somkebox front. The tenders are a little different in looks too.