[Attachment(s) from LZadnichek@aol.com included below]
January 25, 2017
Group - Can anyone further identify the following inserted and attached undated image of CB&Q Class S-1-A 4-6-2 type No. 2838 taken at Downers Grove, IL, while in suburban service. Is that an Automatic Train Control (ATC) box mounted on top the boiler?
I've never heard of ATC being applied to "smaller" steam power such as 4-6-2 types, particularly to those in suburban service. We're all familiar with ATC boxes that appeared on top the boilers of Class O-5 4-8-4 types and Class S-4 4-6-4 types. If this
is not an ATC box on No. 2838, then what is its purpose?
If indeed this shows an ATC installation, then, perhaps, it was a test bed for what equipment was installed on the Class O-5 and Class S-4 locomotives. Too bad the image is undated. The two-tone suburban coach behind the locomotive might help to date the
image. No. 2838 was sold for scrap in February 1952.
Comments appreciated. Best Regards - Louis
Louis Zadnichek II
Fairhope, AL