SKU: SSX

This unique program presents the complete story of the Susquehanna Railroad's Chinese-built SY Class 2-8-2 142, one of the world's newest steam locomotives.

Constructed in 1989 by the TangShan Locomotive & Rolling Stock Works in China, the 142 was originally delivered to the Valley Railroad tourist line in Connecticut as their number 1647.

The program describes the history of the SY class and shows these interesting engines in action at various locations in China. Then, for the first time in railroad video, we'll take you into the large TangShan erecting shops to follow the construction of a steam locomotive. Every phase of the operation is included, from the machining of individual parts to placing the boiler on its frame. You'll also see brand new steam locomotives being fired and test run at the plant.

Next, the career of Valley 1647 is detailed, beginning at Camden, NJ, where she was unloaded from a freighter after the long journey from China. Coverage inlcudes the locomotive's trip across New York Harbor on a carfloat, the run via the Bay Ridge Line and Hell Gate Bridge to Connecticut and the first fireup and moves under steam. A typical run over the Valley Railroad is presented featuring exclusive ChoochCam locomotive mounted minicam views of the handsome engine in action!

The 1647 was sold to the New York, Susquehanna & Western Railroad in late 1991. Renumbered 142, the 2-8-2 was assigned to passenger excursion service. The program concludes with coverage of several trips in the Upstate New York and New Jersey areas, featuring great trackside scenes, a cab ride, and ChoochCam footage.