Actually, tenders were sized so that a locomotive could run from one fuel depot (coal or oil) to another without risk of running out of fuel. That is, an engine was designed to run over at least one division without have to refuel en route. So engines of all sizes would be refuelled equally often, regardless of fuel. All division and most subdivision points would have fuelling and watering facilities. Division points were generally about 100 miles apart. Subdivision points were built for several reasons, of which refuelling might not even be the most important one. Towards the end of the steam era, the larger engines had huge tenders so that they could run over two or more divisions with only crew changes and watering.
Water was used up more quickly than fuel, so water tanks and standpipes for refilling the tender were spaced along the line as needed, closer in hilly country with lots of grades, and further part in flat country.
If your question conceals a curiosity about fuel efficiency, then AFAIK there was no significant difference between oil and coal fired locos. Appliances such as super heaters and feed water heaters had a greater effect on fuel efficiency than the fuel itself.
The efficiency was about the same, but the oil used, if I remember right, had a bit more energy per weight than most coal (coal varies a lot depending on where it comes from). Thus, for situations like the Milwaukee Road Hiawatha, oil was used because they could go further with the same weight of fuel.
Don't forget those lines that had track pans installed so that locomotives could scoop up a tenderfull of water on the fly (like the NY Central at Tivoli).
I've read that in the early days of railroading (1831-1850ish) the era that interests me the most, they stopped for water about every 10 miles and for coal and the general engine lubrication about every 100 miles.
These responses are getting just about as irritating as "Curt" is. A shame too, as you often contribute to the group in a more positive way. How about stopping the childishness?
Far from it, we just enjoy throwing your crossdressing ass around here like the bitch you are.
Obsessed? You are the one posting all the new messages with "Steve Caple" and "Brad" "Jack" or who ever else is beating you down. We could care less about your unemployed ass- but I love responding to your messages- its fun!
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