The Canadian National Class U-4a was a class of five streamlined 4-8-4 Northern type steam locomotives they were built by the Montreal Locomotive Works in 1936 for the Canadian National Railway, numbered 6400 to 6404.
These engines were used for crack passenger service on the Canadian National Railway for much of their careers.
The Canadian National U-4 class was a result of wind tunnel research conducted by the National Research Council of Canada (NRC) in the 1930's. These locomotives, with their sleek modern style, also became an important marketing tool for the company.
Between 1960, and 1961 all but one of the U-4-As were sold for scrap once diesels had replaced these locomotives. Today there's only one member of this class that still exists No. 6400 which is on public display at the National Museum of Science & Technology in Ottawa, Canada.
Stock list[]
| Image | Loco No. | Build date | Manufacturer | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
6400 | 1936 | Montreal Locomotive Works | On static display at the National Museum of Science & Technology, Canada |
|
6401 | 1936 | Montreal Locomotive Works | Scrapped |
|
6402 | 1936 | Montreal Locomotive Works | Scrapped |
|
6403 | 1936 | Montreal Locomotive Works | Scrapped |
|
6404 | 1936 | Montreal Locomotive Works | Scrapped |
Trivia[]
- The U-4a class Confederations were different from the other classes not only in appearance.
- Other differences included larger drivers, a smaller boiler and grate, and a lower adhesive weight and tractive effort.
- In addition, the firebox had thermic syphons, the engines had Boxpok drivers, and all of the engine and tender trucks had roller bearings.
- This locomotive class was used as the basis for the character Vinnie in the movie "Thomas and Friends, The Great Race".