The D51 Hokkaido Cold-Climate Model: A Steam Locomotive from the End of the Steam Era, featuring a Sealed Cab and Shortened Deflector
The D51 steam locomotive, affectionately known as Degoichi, was introduced by the Japanese National Railways (JNR) in 1935 (Showa 10) and became the most produced steam locomotive in Japan, with a total of 1,115 units built. It was active across the country and underwent various modifications to suit different regions and routes, with numerous variations. In Hokkaido, it featured unique cold-climate equipment that became a defining characteristic.
The D51 models equipped with a Giesl Ejector, a device designed to improve combustion efficiency, had a distinctive flat, reverse trapezoidal smokestack, which helped reduce coal consumption by about 10%. However, due to the end of the steam locomotive era, only 36 units were modified, with these machines concentrated at the Oiwake Locomotive Depot in Hokkaido, where they continued to serve.
Train Formation Example
Main Features:
- A cold-climate D51, often called the Hokkaido model. This model represents the locomotive in use during the late steam era, around 1975 (Showa 50).
- The D51 features a Giesl Ejector (induced air ventilation system) with an accurately reproduced reverse trapezoidal flat smokestack.
- The sealed cab and corresponding tender front design are recreated, along with the swiveling driver’s side window and the H-rubber supported window on the assistant’s side.
- The distinctive shortened deflector, handrails on the front deck, and handrails on top of the boiler, unique to steam locomotives in Hokkaido, are accurately reproduced.
- The front signal light and tender light are placed differently compared to the standard model.
- The body color is a rich matte black, capturing the atmosphere of the locomotive during its active years.
- The handrails are reproduced in black.
- The leading and trailing wheels are finely detailed, showing realistic spokes.
- The locomotive features a coreless motor power unit for stable running performance.
- A snowplow is included as standard equipment (removable). A snowplow-compatible coupler for double-heading operations and a double-heading knuckle coupler are also included.
- Arnold couplers are standard, and additional knuckle couplers are provided for replacement.
- The headlight is illuminated (the auxiliary lights, tender light, and tail light do not light up).
- Selectable number plates: Hokkaido type: 320, 397, 467, 710 / Hokkaido type with Giesl Ejector: 241, 345, 711, 953.
- Minimum curve radius: R249.
- Included accessories: Selectable number plates (Hokkaido type: 320, 397, 467, 710, Giesl Ejector type: 241, 345, 711, 953), double-heading Arnold coupler, double-heading knuckle coupler, replacement knuckle coupler.
