History: The class
4-4-2 Atlantics was the pace-setter for high-speed passenger service,
which resulted in competition for the development of the fastest train.
The E6, or "Hercules of Atlantics", second only to the K-4 in fame, was
created by Alfred W. Gibbs. No. 5075 (later renumbered 1067 in 1912) was
first developed in 1910 as an experimental model. Four years later, after
intensive testing, several changes in cylinder diameters, the installation
of superheaters, and the building of two other samples, eighty E6 locomotives
were built by Juniata in 1914. This locomotive was produced amidst the
development of the reknown K4 and the Pacific locomotives. It turned out
to be a great investment into locomotive future; they led directly to
other popular engines on the Pennsylvania Railroad, and E6 Atlantics could
pull trains that would require six-drivered Pacifics.
An interesting feature of the E6 is that it contained a KW style trailing
truck. The heavy frame of the KW balanced the rear of the locomotive,
and the underframe of the locomotive was supported directly upon it. Steel
castings were used on these locomotives; this was used on all railroad-designed
classes until 1930.
E6s engines quickly became prime movers of main line limiteds. They worked
closely with E3sd and K2 classes, dealing with World War I traffic. One
locomotive, number 13, ran for many years on the Williamsport Division
of Pennsylvania, and was considered good luck by many of its engine crews.
This locomotive held the division mileage record for its time period,
but was later to be replaced by K4s.
E6s worked their way down into Baltimore and changed from steam power
into oil-powered locomotives shortly after World War II. In 1947 there
were a total of 74 E6s engines. In contrast to all other Atlantics, the
E6s never had a stoker, a feedwater heater, or power reverse. Their distinguishing
characteristic was the two basic boilers that gave the trains the ability
to run fast, carrying a heavy load. The locomotives also utilized a 26-inch
cylinder stroke, 80-inch drivers, and 205 pounds of steam pressure.
Complete Kit and Accessories: The locomotive
and tender complete kit has all of the parts to build a working model. You may
wish to add your own details or purchase our "Super Detail Kit" if available.
Some models have an optional painted engineer and fireman, smoke unit kit and
other assemblies available as optional equipment to compliment your kit-building
needs.
Kit Components and Replacement Parts:
The following parts are listed in order to identify parts in your kit or to
replace parts that have been lost, damaged or simply worn out. This is
not a complete list of all of the individual parts available for this model
- please call Bowser with your specific requirements
if you cannot find the parts you need. You may also use our on-line
catalog to find parts by description. Please note that part numbers
with a price of "Call Us" may be part of an assembly and may not be available
as a separate purchase item.
