Polish State Railways Ty246

After the end of World War II, the Polish State Railway ordered heavy 2-10-0 locomotives for coal traffic between Upper Silesia and the Baltic port of Gdynia. Although they technically differed from domestic locomotives in many ways, they could be produced faster than Polish or European manufacturers in general could offer. They were paid for with funds from the UNRRA and 40 locomotives from ALCO, 40 from Baldwin and 20 from Lima were all delivered in 1947.

These locomotives could only be used on main lines due to their axle load of 21.5 tonnes. They had a comfortable, closed cab and could be driven while being seated. The fireman was also relieved by a mechanical stoker. Other features were a steam reverser and a Worthington feed water heater.

They were designated Ty246 and quickly gained the nickname “Trumans” and usually hauled coal trains with a weight of around 2,200 tonnes. Their limit in regular traffic was 2,800 tonnes with a speed of 40 km/h. Their active service ended in 1979 and today, Ty246-22 is on static display in the Museum at Karsznice.