Radnor Track Pans 1911

Two Pennsylvania Railroad Atlantic class locomotives in tandem passing over the Radnor, PA track pans in 1911. Note that the second locomotive drops its scoop for the full length, while the lead locomotive is waiting until midpoint to begin scooping. This required procedure assures the second locomotive will get a good drink in the event of some problem on the first, such as a delay in raising its scoop or disturbing the water level. Coordination between the two locomotives was needed -- even a single locomotive at 60 MPH typically had less than 20 seconds of scooping time before running out of track pan!

Also note the rivet construction and absence of thawing pipes in this early installation. While curves were avoided if possible, this installation starts on a curve, such as at Radnor and Atglen, PA. The Radnor track pans were removed from service in 1937.