Nippon Sharyo D51

Built by Kawasaki, Hitachi, Nippon Sharyo

Top speed

85 km/h

53 mph

Weight

76 t

167,551 lb

Length

19.73 m

64 ft 9 in

Track gauge

1,067 mm

Cape gauge

Years built

1936–1951

1,184 units

Axle arrangement

1'D1' h2

Overview of the Nippon Sharyo D51

Discover the iconic D51 steam locomotive, a powerhouse of Japanese railway history.

This robust 2-8-2 Whyte notation locomotive was built by renowned manufacturers like Kawasaki, Hitachi, and Nippon Sharyo between 1936 and 1951.

With a top speed of 85 km/h and a substantial weight of 76 tons, the D51 is designed for performance and reliability on Japan's diverse rail network.

Serving both East Japan Railway Company and West Japan Railway Company, this versatile engine played a crucial role in transporting passengers and freight across the nation.

Explore the legacy of the D51, a testament to Japanese engineering and a beloved symbol of a bygone era.

Nippon Sharyo D51 technical specifications

	Value	Imperial / US
Built by	Kawasaki, Hitachi, Nippon Sharyo · 1936–19511,184 units
Top speed	85 km/h53 mph	53 mph
Tractive effort	184 kN41,365 lbf	41,365 lbf
Track gauge	1,067 mmCape gauge3 ft 6 in	3 ft 6 in
UIC axle arrangement	1'D1' h2
Whyte notation	2-8-2
Length	19.73 m64 ft 9 in	64 ft 9 in
Height	3.98 m13 ft 1 in	13 ft 1 in
Weight	76 t167,551 lb	167,551 lb