Yes and No EBarnacle

In British terms a tank engine is a locomotive carrying it coal and water on the same chassis, no tender.

Due to the (in North American Terms)short haul distances involved tank engines were extensively used for all sorts of services, including express passenger, and heavy frieght.

A yard engine or shunting locamotive (Switcher) in the UK was usually a tank engine. In the USA they tended to be tender locomotives, with the sloping rear to the tender to enhance vision.

It was a question of distance, and a tank engine did not need turning before its next trip, although this was done whenever possible for crew comfort, particullaly if a fast run was required. No point in having to have coal dust blowing in your face.

I can recall, 1965 the dying days of UK steam, being invited onto the footplate of a Stanier 8F heavey freight loco whilst it shunted the yard at Wellingborough - heaven !!!! And completely against the rule book !!!

Gareth

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