USRA 0-6-0

Rock Island  No. 282

Small But Mighty!

As the US entered World War I, the need to move cars quickly in yards, industrial areas and ports became critical. But many roads soon found their switchers weren't up to the job.

Once the United States Railway Administration (USRA) assumed control, the need for larger and more powerful switch engines soon became a priority.

As with road engines, the USRA designed both a light (0-6-0) and heavy switcher (0-8-0), and construction began in 1918.

Larger and more powerful than many 0-6-0s then in service, the USRA locos could handle all types of switching and some transfer work.

In addition, the larger tenders carrying 8,000 gallons of water and 16 tons of coal increased efficiency, as fewer trips to the water tank and coal dock were needed.

Production ended in 1919 with 255 engines built and in service on 28 railroads.

Following the end of USRA control in 1920, some roads ordered copies of these engines, while others used the design as a starting point for improved 0-6-0s.

Owners of original engines also began modifying them to match their own standards; many rebuilt tender coal bunkers to improve rearward visibility, and/or replaced headlights, bells and other appliances.

• Slow speed less than 3 scale miles per hour
• Separate driver set w/traction tires for maximum pulling power
• Loco & tender electrical pick-up
• Nickel-silver plated rp-25 wheels
• Operating cab windows & meticulously detailed cab interior
• Tender coal bunker style as appropriate to road
• Includes history booklet, certificate of quality and QSI sound reference manual

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