steam locomotive driving wheel gearing

[Locomotivebuilder]

Hi I am building a 2-8-4 steam locomotive in 8 wide. I have bought multiple medium, large, and xl power functions motors to try with my big bens bricks large wheels. I also have a large selection of gears and axles from old mind storms sets. what are the best motors to use to power the driving wheels and what gear configuration should I use to get the best speed and power? I really want to build a steam loco powered at the driving wheels. Is it possible to build an engine this way that will perform as good as an engine with two power functions train motors in the tender? Also I was considering trying to power the loco and tender at same time? I want to build a loco that can pull at least a ten car train with ease.

[Duq]

If that's your first steam engine you're quite ambitious! First of all you'll need to choose between speed and power; you can't have both.

Have a look at the instructions for the Emerald Night for a possible solution; that uses an XL motor to drive the drivers.

For a different solution have a look at some of Cale Leipharts engines:

B&O Em1 18 by Cale Leiphart, on Flickr