Before this excursion, and 611's return to steam in 2015 I thought we wouldn't hear this whistle under steam again after it saw use on 1225. But it seems like it wasn't, which I'm glad as that Hancock whistle was one of many reasons I became fascinated with 611 as a child. And an engine I do hope to see one day, as well as 148.
Not quite. Former N&W engineer passed away, and donated another J class whistle to the 611 guys. I believe the other is the one from 608, but don't quote me.
Amazing Job yall on having the original 611 whistle on 148.... I had the privilege of riding 611 in 1992 during the Independence Limited Runs and it definitely brings back memories.... Mega Thumbs up yall 👍 👏 👌
It might just be me but I think it sounds more or less like any other step-top Hancock long-bell 3-chime which, don't get me wrong, still sounds good. 611 has a shroud around the whistle that distorts the sound in a unique way, a sound that no other locomotive could produce but the N&W Js, so the only way this whistle could actually sound like 611 is when it's worn by 611 itself.
I think another thing about the whistle here is that it was only running at about 180 psi on 148's boiler compared to the 611's 300, so it didn't play that G major chord like it did in the 90s and instead plays a minor chord. Definitely would be nice to hear it on 611 again.
It’s a real shame 611 can’t use her own whistle. Preston Claytor should donate the whistle to VMT. I know he disagreed with certain changes but since she is running, he should make an exception. His dad would have wanted that way.
