World War 2 strained the railroads which had seen a big down turn in traffic,
maintenance, and new equipment acquisition during the 1930s. A lot of
new power was suddenly needed to meet the demands.
The D&H bought 4-6-6-4s in quantity as a first response. These machines
performed very well from PA on up through New York, but a different, dual
service locomotive to handle heavy passenger, and higher speed freights
was also needed.. At the time, the almost universal answer to such a need
was the 4-8-4.
So, the D&H ordered 15 class K 4-8-4s from Alco in 1943- # s 300-
314.
The K class Northerns were state of the art front line power, topped off with some nods to the traditional " Loree look" D&H steam is so celebrated for. They operated principally in New York state, equally at home on the best passenger trains such as the Laurentian and the Montreal Limited, and on higher speed manifest freights. They were also seen working coal drags, when required.
300s are one of the most sought after D&H locomotives in HO. Years ago they were imported by Nickle Plate Products, a bit shy on detail, and poor runners according to many. Accordingly, I have decided to revisit the class, and build better detailed, excellent runners. The model shown above is a Nickle Plate products brass loco-the one I'll beat.
The project is in the early phase of development. The model is being
developed from ¼" scale drawings made by a former D&H
Binghamton, NY roundhouse worker who worked on them, and measured them.
Alco drawings, numerous photos and other good information sources are
also being used. Watch this webpage for further information on prices,
and availability.