A steam locomotive classification under the Whyte notation system indicating one unpowered leading axle, three powered driving axles, and two unpowered trailing axles. The four trailing wheels support a massive firebox, allowing the engine to generate immense steam for sustained high-speed running.
Heard on the job
They kept a 2-6-4 on the branch line because it could handle the tight curves while still pulling a decent passenger consist.
Also heard as
- Adriatic