While Lehigh Valley Railroad Alco RS-3m #211 had most of its lettering since its restoration, one small detail that was missing was a the 'F' on the sides of the frame at the end of the long hood. The "F" denotes what is the front of the locomotive. The practice dates to the transition from steam-to-diesel during the postwar years, when it was clear which end was the front of a steam lcomotive, but not always clear on early diesels. Based on photographs of 211 in service, replica F's were added to the engine to complete this detail of the locomotive's continued restoration. Knowing which end is designated "front" is important when communicating direction of movement between crew members and trains. Photo by Christopher Hauf
What the F?
While Lehigh Valley Railroad Alco RS-3m #211 had most of its lettering since its restoration, one small detail that was missing was a the 'F' on the sides of the frame at the end of the long hood. The "F" denotes what is the front of the locomotive. The practice dates to the transition from steam-to-diesel during the postwar years, when it was clear which end was the front of a steam lcomotive, but not always clear on early diesels. Based on photographs of 211 in service, replica F's were added to the engine to complete this detail of the locomotive's continued restoration. Knowing which end is designated "front" is important when communicating direction of movement between crew members and trains. Photo by Christopher Hauf
