Hello folks,
Newby here with an amateur passion for paddle steamers. I'm looking for info on the types of engine configurations in sidewheelers (any time between the mid-19th century to the mid-20th century) that could allow them to operate their paddle-wheels independently, including contra-rotating them or disengaging one while keeping the other moving.
I've heard this feature was found in paddle tugs of the period, but I don't know how the machinery was set up to allow this. I've also read mentions of certain American paddlewheel coasters using double-beam engines that could allow this system...
Any info on this topic would be appreciated