Help on Bellringing Required

[Anonymous]

As an Australian modelling a USA prototype I have a small problem that I'm sure can be quickly answered. I have to-day taken delivery of my first sound equiped loco and I'M rapt but now with all the bells and whistles that this thing can play I suddenly realised that I don't know when to ring the bell (you see in OZ we don't have such things) . Who's responsibility is it and when is it to be rung ??
buttesouthern

[ndbprr]

The engineer is in charge of both the bell and the whistle. The bell was usually rung before starting prior to blowing the whistle which usually was two shorts to indicate ready to move. Also when backing or in an engine terminal and at the engineers discretion when pulling into a station or in public areas. Sometimes it was used when crossing roads after the two longs , a short and a long for a grade crossing.

[Anonymous]

Thank you npdprr thats just what I needed know. buttesouthern [:)]

[johncolley]

G'day, mate! Bell is also rung when obscured movements are made in the yard, entering/leaving passenger terminals, and most places involving street running or switching on industrial sites. Happy Railroading!

[Anonymous]

Also used when passing work crews along the right of way

[Anonymous]

buttesouthern,

I am just getting into RR, am in the process of building my first layout so I dont know much if anything about bellringing. But I happen to live in Butte, Montana which is bewteen Helena, 60 miles to the south, and Salt Lake. I think those are the areas of your layout? Anyway if you need any info are this area I could be helpfull.


John

[johncolley]

Oh, an afterthought, the bell would also be rung when entering or leaving the main coming into the yard on the arrival/departure track. Another whistle signal is three blasts when you are going to back up your train. At least that was in the old days to let the caboose crew know you were going to back up. Two blasts to go forward.