RR Smudge Pot ?

[railroaded]

Did railroads use smudge pots? And if so, what did they use them for? -Thanks B in B

[wjstix]

I believe smudge pots are a type of heater?? I know some reefers had something similar that they used in the winter to keep produce from freezing while in transit, can't remember if they used the term 'smudge pots' or not but I think they did. This was before mechanical refrigerator/heated cars.

[BigJim]

A type of smudge pot was used as switch heaters in yards during snow. It was quite a site to see an entire ladder lit up with these small fires at night.

[PBenham]

I believe smudge pots are a type of heater?? I know some reefers had something similar that they used in the winter to keep produce from freezing while in transit, can't remember if they used the term 'smudge pots' or not but I think they did. This was before mechanical refrigerator/heated cars.

The Bangor & Aroostook (other car owners did too) had specialized heaters that fit inside the reefer's ice bunkers. Modern controlled environment "reefers" automatically maintain a constant temperature. (I don't mind loading/unloading a controlled temp trailer!)

Smudge pots were the predecessors of the battery powered blinking lights, marking a path through construction areas at night.