Have you ever taken a steam train on the Alishan Forest Railway? Early Alishan steam trains were powered by SHAY steam locomotives. The earliest ones were purchased from the American LIMA Locomotive Works. During the initial construction of the railway, 13-ton SHAY steam locomotives were used to transport construction materials. Subsequently, 18-ton SHAY steam locomotives were purchased to meet the demand for heavier transportation.

The 18-ton steam locomotive you see now is an 18-ton, 2-cylinder SHAY steam locomotive. A distinctive feature of SHAY steam locomotives is their “vertical cylinders.” Through the interaction of the crankshaft, connecting rod, and bevel gears, they can achieve powerful pulling force and hill-climbing ability.