Forney

The Forney design, was used by a number of American locomotive builders as it offered a compact engine with integral water tank that could be used on small lines. They were particularly common on the many narrow gauge railways where size was important but a hard working loco with a good operating range was required.

The Roundhouse Forney is based on locomotives built by the Portland Company around the turn of the 20th century and was found on many of the narrow gauge railways in Maine.

An unusual feature of the model is the use of an articulated front power bogie which enables this relatively long engine to operate on small radius curves with minimum overhang.

Technical specifications

• 0-4-4 inside framed chassis with double acting piston valve cylinders.
• Reversing by piston type steam reversing valve between frames.
• Fully articulated to allow operation down to 2’ (600mm) radius curves on 45mm gauge or 3' (900mm) radius on 32mm gauge.
• Internal gas firing using the Roundhouse 'FG' type burner.
• Controls fitted as standard: steam regulator, safety valve, pressure gauge, displacement lubricator and gas regulator.
• Full radio control for both regulator and reversing valve gear.
• Dimensions: length 380mm, width 110mm, height 150mm
• Weight: 3.3 kg.
• Optional water gauge and boiler top up system available either factory fitted or DIY.
• Compensated rear bogie for improved running.
• Colours: Gamboge (illustrated), green, black or maroon.
• Gauge: 32 or 45mm. Note: this model is not adjustable between the two. Please state gauge when ordering. Fitted as standard with insulated wheels.

Sandy River & Rangeley Lakes No.6 lettering and numbers are available as an optional extra for the Forney.

S.R.&R.R. Nos 6 and 24 make an impressive pair - see the Roundhouse No.24 for more details.