Welcome Visitor. First time here? Like what you see? Bookmark us for when you are bored, and check out 'top shots' and 'fantastic (editors choice)' in the menu above, you won't be dissapointed. Join our community!
click here to sign up for an account today. Sick of this message? Get rid of it by
logging-in here.
Not sure the CP rules, but its always good to have even one car with you when operating a train. On CN two units running light are restricted to 50MPH but if you have even one freight car you can do track speed!
@ngineered4u, Why the restriction when running light?
As there has been no reply yet, I will give it a go.
Light engines, as the speed increases, tend to develop much lateral movement. Banging side to side on the rails. With some resistive weight to the rear, the units will settle down and pull straighter. Akin to having feathers at the rear of an arrow. Just that little bit of resistance at the back makes the arrow fly much truer.
And Brian, nice shot.
@Larry and Jacob. I am told it actually has to do with the braking and stopping distance,
A single engine is restricted to 30mph. Two units 50mph, but if you have 3 units you can do track speed.
Larry there is some truth in what you said about the wheels banging from side to side. That does happen on occasion. I have found it depends on the location and type of track
I have never worked with today’s modern units or when at work no opportunity came to ride in a GP or SD40 light engine very far. So I cannot comment on those from experience. I did many sifts peddling grain hoppers with 1300′s. I found they travelled much better with a train than light engine. There was not much CWR then either, even the 1300′s would travel much smoother on that I would imagine.
@Larry. I agree with what you are saying. I have run SW1200RS’s and Sweeps and well as other smaller units. I have found the ride is always smoother with cars attached. There is far less “hunting” of the trucks when running with cars.
Interesting. Thanks for the info gentlemen.