Rolling Stock

Tender

The car attached to a steam locomotive carrying fuel and water supplies.

Full Definition

A tender is the specialized car coupled to a steam locomotive that carries its fuel (coal or oil) and water supply. Tenders vary in size from small slope-back types to large Vanderbilt-style cylindrical water tenders. In modeling, the tender often houses the speaker for sound-equipped locomotives and may contain additional weight for traction.

Examples

•A large articulated locomotive might have a tender holding 25,000 gallons of water

Tips & Best Practices

Ensure good electrical contact between locomotive and tender for reliable operation

Related Terms

Steam Locomotive

A locomotive powered by a steam engine, iconic of railroading's golden age.

Locomotive

A powered rail vehicle that pulls or pushes trains; the 'engine' of the train.

Have Questions?

Ask our AI assistant for more details about Tender or related topics.

More Rolling Stock Terms

Quick Links

Learning Center Shop Products Comparisons