Stupid Question About Rolling Stock

[Anonymous]

What's the definition of the "A" end and the "B" end of a car?[%-)]

[Anonymous]

There are likely more definitive answers, however, I simply remember the B end is the end that has the brake wheel set-up.

[orsonroy]

That's it; the B end has the brakewheel. I always wondered why this wasn't called the A end?

[dehusman]

The "B" end is the end with the handbrake on it (B for Brake).

On a multi-platform car the B end will be on the "B" platform and the "A" end will be on the A platform (the platforms are lettered A-E-D-C-B or A-C-B for three pack) since they will have multiple brake wheels.

On a diesel, the front is the end with the letter "F" painted on it.

Dave H.

[AntonioFP45]

This is good for the Newbies on here to know.

BTW: This is not a "STUPID QUESTION"! I've been a modeler since the late 70s. I didn't know what the A and B ends were!

This question is called: VALUEABLE.

Cheers!

[SpaceMouse]

Does it matter whether the A or B end is in front?

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by orsonroy

That's it; the B end has the brakewheel. I always wondered why this wasn't called the A end?

To help us remember! B = Brake end! Works for me anyway.

Bob Boudreau

[Pruitt]

QUOTE: Originally posted by SpaceMouse

Does it matter whether the A or B end is in front?

No, it doesn't matter at all, at least as far as brake operation is concerned. The "train line" that runs through the car is tapped by a simple tee connection to get to the car's airbrake system. Which direction that air comes from is inconsequential.

[AntonioFP45]

In thinking about this, it would make sense that on the prototypes it would matter for locomotive crews involved in switching operations, as cars are being dropped off at industries (customers) in which of course the brake wheel is turned and locked afterwards.

[johncolley]

1. NO question is stupid or dumb if it is sincere. 2. The designation of ends comes into play when writing up bad order cards for repairs, such as "right stirrup, b end" is a specific item and location.