2-6-0 Class K2 GNR/LNER Profile and Models

The Great Northern Railway Class H2 and H3 (classified K1 and K2 by the LNER) was a class of 2-6-0 steam locomotive designed for mixed-traffic work. The class was created as a locomotive which could haul heavier goods trains at speeds of up to 40 mph. The class were later developed into the more powerful H4 (LNER K3) class. After formation of the London and North Eastern Railway, the type became known as class K1 and K2 and was adopted as an LNER standard design. They got the nickname "Ragtimers" because of their lively nature when running at speed and their use of Walschaerts valve gear which was uncommon on the GNR at the time. They were excellent mixed-traffic locomotives, but began to be displaced by the larger and stronger K3s. They were moved to former Great Eastern and North British lines to supplement existing engines. Twenty K2s were fitted with Westinghouse pumps so they could pull passenger trains from Liverpool Street on the Colchester and Cambridge lines. All K2s were withdrawn and scrapped between 1955 and 1962.

(Information provided via Wikipedia)

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