Edit post

Edit your reply below.

Post Body
Enter your post below.
Perhaps BBConrail has in mind handbrake links or early efforts at mechanical braking? Marknewton has my meaning. Chains were affixed, usually at each corner, between truck frames and the car body, especially on tenders. In a derailment, the chains would limit slewing and hold the wheels close to and in alignment with the rails. Short wheelbase tenders, often top heavy and subject to water surging about in the tank, were prone to derailments, so became candidates for chains. Yet many tenders did not have them. That seems odd. Did chains bind too often on curves, so induce derailments? Did they delay parting of the air hose, and thus delay an emergency brake application, until the derailed wheels found a switch point to pick? Otherwise, it seems strange to me that such an economical safety device was sparingly applied. Would not the chains also hold the trucks on the cars, not have them fly off to do more harm in a bad wreck? If they worked well, why not always have them?
Tags (Optional)
Tags are keywords that get attached to your post. They are used to categorize your submission and make it easier to search for. To add tags to your post type a tag into the box below and click the "Add Tag" button.
Add Tag

Update Reply

Login, or register today to interact in our online community, comment on articles, receive our newsletter, manage your account online and more!

Model Railroader Newsletter See all

Sign up for our FREE e-newsletter and get model railroad news in your inbox!