Roco 23 Serie Manuel page 27

to create space for the wider boiler firebox, which was supported at the rear by an Adams axle. With this symmetrical chassis,
the design of the BR 23 was extremely well-balanced, and one would be justified in designating it the beauty queen of German
standard locomotives.
The two BR 23 locomotives were extensively tested. In February 1942, a test run was even carried out on the winding, steep route
from Berchtesgaden to Bad Reichenhall. The expected performance of 1,500 hp was exceeded by far with a good 1,950 hp. The BR
23 still ran smoothly at a speed of 110 km/h. In spite of their successful design, only the two pilot series locomotives were built.
The further 798 units originally planned were never ordered due to the progression of the war.
After the war, both prototype locomotives remained in the GDR. In the middle of the 1950s, they were sent to the „VSM Halle"
testing facility. The 23 001 was equipped with a Riggenbach counter-pressure brake and a corner valve pressure compensator on
the cylinders. Due to ageing on the steam boiler, the 23.001 was equipped with a new Reko boiler like the one on the BR 50.35
in the year 1961. Due to the counter-pressure brake, however, it was also provided with a surface preheater. The domes were
collected under a joint cover. In 1969, a Giesl ejector was added to the engine. In 1970, the locomotive was redesignated to 35
2001-2, and remained in service until 1975. The Reko boiler conversion of the 23 002 also planned was cancelled due to damage
to the engine's frame and wheels. This locomotive was scrapped in 1967.
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