The 310 at the FJB

The image left is a prototype photograph with blurred surrounding. You may compare it with
the model photo on my other 310 images page.

If you scroll down and click on prototype thumbnails, a new browser window will open
and present an enlarged view of the selected photograph. You also may step forward and backward in the new window.

In 1995 the Franz Josef Bahn (FJB) celebrated the 125 years jubilee. The line was planned and constructed starting 1865 in order to connect the capitals Vienna and Prag.

Planned as a main line, it should also open up the crossed regions by branch lines. At the territory of Bohemia, a branch line starting in Gmuend (Ceske Velenice) goes to Budweis, Pilsen and Eger. At Austrian territory there are branch lines to Waidhofen (Thaya), Raabs, Zwettl (Martinsberg), Horn - Krems and Retz.

In Gmuend NOe a narrow gauge railroad opens up further areas. Many of those branch lines today already finished the regular operation.

The main line was rebuilt after world war two to a single track line because of the "iron curtain" impact.

For a long period the line had the character of a regional railroad. But after the shutting down of the "iron curtain" the line's significance increased again. Facing that circumstance the Austrian Federal Railways (OeBB) started some modernisation program including the line's electrification about mid of the 90s.

The following photographs present the 310.23 during several special trips at the FJB. Most of them taken before installation of electrical supply.

Aproaching Absdorf Hippersdorf.
Until Sigmundsherberg, the line had electrical supply since several years. Because of the location close to the river Danube the weather frequently is cloudy in the morning.

		Stop in Absdorf Hippersdorf. Close behind Absdorf the line to Krems branches off.

		The 310 driving full steam. The overhead supply don't fit with the steam loco. (up)

		Still "under" electricity close to Ziersdorf.

		Passing the "slope bridge" close to Limberg. The bridge was constructed since the underground was not stable and the line started sliding several times - including accidents (installation in 1912).

		The train has departed Hötzelsdorf. Here we have plain railroad atmosphere without overhead supply. (up)

		Photo stop at Allensteig. At that time still equipped with beautiful form signals.

		At the left the first equipment for the line reconstruction is visible.

		310.23 at the Gmuend station, which is the border station between Austria and Bohemia. For loco maintenance the facilities of the narrow gauge line may be used partly. (up)

		Yesterday railroad atmosphere ... The crane in the foreground was transferred to Gmuend especially for this steam trip. The crane in the background belongs to the narrow gauge lines.

		Some shunting turns are necessary to reach the turntable. (up)

		The turntable is obviously in good condition. The 310.23 is turned for the home run.

		In the foreground some coal supply gadgets are visible. The 310 in the background is ready for departure.

		Home run - the steam production is impressive. In reality this image was taken during a trip to Gmuend (opposite running direction). But because of it's orientation left to right, I put it here in this section. (up)

		The 310.23 signed as 16.008, this complies to the German numbering plan used during and after world war two. Some details changed compared with the 310 look.

		The 310 with train stopped to let a regular train pass.

		Enclosed by flowers the 310 reflects a perfect spring time mood. (up)

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