PRR Q2 4-4-6-4

A Brief Overview of the PRR Q2 4-4-6-4

In 1942, the PRR built an experimental duplex drive freight locomotive, the Q1, with a 4-6-4-4 wheel arrangement.  In 1944, after identifying a number of flaws with the Q1, the PRR built a second prototype. They changed the wheel arrangement to 4-4-6-4 and created class Q2.  This prototype was followed by 25 production Q2s in 1945.  These rigid-frame four cylinder locomotives may have been the epitome of super-power steam locomotive design.  At 115,800 lbs of tractive effort and nearly 8,000 horsepower, the Q2's were the most powerful ten-coupled steam locomotives ever produced.  Mostly seen on the Pennsy west of Pittsburgh, these locomotives would also venture east to territories such as Horseshoe Curve and their birthplace, Altoona.  The Q2 was emblematic of the PRR's commitment to on-line coal producers to continue to use steam locomotives to power their trains after World War II.  However, the Q2 could not match the maintenance records of the invading diesels and, by 1956, the last Q2 had been retired and scrapped.  No example of this titan of the rails was saved for posterity.

With the help of the PRR Historical Society, Broadway Limited Imports has produced spectacular brass models of both the prototype version (#6131) and several of the production version locomotives.  These models are 100% brass, with plastic brake shoes to help with more reliable operation.  Broadway Limited is has produced four distinct road numbers.  An unlettered/unnumbered version is also available, as well as several beautiful varnished brass editions.  In addition to the stunning level of detail, and the beautiful decoration, these models are factory-equipped with Broadway Limited's new Paragon2 DC/DCC Sound and Control system.  BLI's flagship control system allows you to operate the model on a DC or DCC layout out of the box.  The Paragon2 system provides the user with the best slow speed control in the industry and with multiple innovative features like smoke that puffs in synch with each chuff sound, and authentic crew chatter at the touch of a button.  With the Q2 locomotive weighing in at 1lb 10oz, she has the power to pull long freight trains single-handedly, just like the Q2 did in real life!  If you are not an operator, this splendidly detailed brass model will be the jewel of your collection.  Descriptions for each of the individual items are available below.  Contact your favorite dealer to place your reservations today.