Dashing through the snow

[PNWRMNM]

blue streak 1

 

BaltACD

Trains do not operate on immediate line of sight. 

 

 

 

What about restricted speed?

 

The exception that proves the rule.

Mac

[BaltACD]

PNWRMNM

 

blue streak 1 

BaltACD

Trains do not operate on immediate line of sight. 

What about restricted speed? 

The exception that proves the rule.

Mac

Train that started this thread was not operating under Restricted Speed conditions. Restricted Speed is not the NORMAL operating condition for Main Line railroad operations.

[CShaveRR]

What about restricted speed?

If I remember correctly, Restricted Speed rules apply only when there is a signal system.  Something else might be governing the train here, but it wouldn't be restricted speed, and probably not yard limit rules.  He is authorized to travel at his prescribed speed until he encounters a signal (or sign) stating otherwise.  

This isn't really a case of "caution to the wind".  A knowledgeable engineer knows whether the drifts are likely to be clean (not so if they were an avalanche, or if fallen trees were likely on the roadbed--evidently unlikely in this location).  There's always some risk of hitting something, even in clear weather, and if you make your entire run prepared to stop within half the range of vision, you'll get nowhere fast.

[ACY Tom]

"The exception proves the rule" is one of the most misapplied expressions in the English language.  It relies on a very old definition of "prove" that is poorly understood nowadays.  A proper restatement of the adage would be "the exception TESTS the rule."  If the rule does not hold up against the test (or proof), then the rule is invalid.

Tom 

[tree68]

Restricted speed may be due to a signal indication, or by established limits.  

We operate in our station areas at restricted speed (NORAC Rule 98).  This is not only a safety "feature," but allows us to operate without dispatcher permission, as is required on the main.

Replacing "prove" with "test" works nicely if discussing those facilities the auto companies maintain - "proving grounds."

[Deggesty]

Right on, Tom and Larry. [edited to provide correct second name]

Don't forget about the Aberdeen Testing Ground, near Aberdeen, Maryland.

[Paul_D_North_Jr]

Deggesty

Right on, Tom and Larry. [edited to provide correct second name]

Don't forget about the Aberdeen Testing Ground, near Aberdeen, Maryland.

"APG", to those who know it.  When I was working for a contractor there (1982 - 83), the trains there operated slowly (<10 MPH), but the M1 tanks (with rubber tread inserts) on the roads often exceeded the Post's posted speed limit of 35 MPH, and faster yet on the "Test Tracks". 

- Paul North. 

[Randy Stahl]

I've run trains in a lot of deep snow. I usually go maximum speed mainly because I A) don't want to get stuck

B) Keep the traction motors hot and the blowers blowing full to keep the snow out.

I also blow the horn ALOT so when I actually need it I'll have it and it won't be packed with snow and ice. This is especially true if the snow is coming over the top of the cab.

I did know the territory so as long as I had orders giving me right I owned the railroad. From time to time I can pick out some landmarks and watching the speedometer I can tell where the little hills and sags are giving me additional info on my location.

Does suck when tree branches bust out all the head end lights though.

 

Randy

[Diesel Power]

I've seen some nice video's of trains plowing through the snow etc. but that was very cool to watch. I'm sure it was very impressive to watch in person. That was a great catch by that railfan.