Isolating locomotives
Aug 1, 2011

Isolating locomotives

Q What does it mean when diesel locomotives are “isolated?”— Ray Russell, Naples, Fla. A “Isolating” a particular locomotive in…

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Pennsy Tubular Train
Aug 1, 2011

Pennsy Tubular Train

The Pennsylvania Railroad’s Keystone Tubular Train, built by The Budd Co. in 1956, was designed to hug the rails tighter…

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Weight of trains
Aug 1, 2011

Weight of trains

The tonnage profile for this Canadian National intermodal train gives overview and detailed information. Ray Weart collection Q When someone…

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Talgo speed comparison
Jul 1, 2011

Talgo speed comparison

Talgo’s pendular suspension lowers the carbody’s center of gravity and relocates its center of rotation, all enabling Talgo cars to…

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Chinese steam for sale?
Jun 1, 2011

Chinese steam for sale?

Q I saw an ad for Chinese steam locomotives by Multipower International Inc., in Towaco, N.J. The company offers used…

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Hooded signal lights
Jun 1, 2011

Hooded signal lights

The hood on this Norfolk Southern signal better directs the light’s beam. Doug Koontz Q CSX lineside signals all have…

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“Shoo-fly track”
Jun 1, 2011

“Shoo-fly track”

Q Does anyone know the origin of the term “shoo-fly track?”— Gordon Osmundson, Oakland, Calif. A According to the Historical…

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DPU rear markers
May 1, 2011

DPU rear markers

Rear-end locomotives on distributed power trains may run with or without flashing rear end devices. Steve Schmollinger Q I see…

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