[?]Rules for Caboose First Operation

[Anonymous]

Hey railroader guys and gals, would someone discuss the rules, etc., for the caboose being used in reference to backing moves? I just saw a pic of a bay window caboose being used in such operation and made me wonder about it.

In the past (not very recent though) I have seen employees standing on the platform as a back up move was taking place. Also is there a difference between a back up move of a caboose and a passenger car?

[mudchicken]

You have an:

-operable brake pipe handle
-operable whistle (in the air line)
-operable light/flag
-operable radio

go!, just like any other reverse move, except now you have a safer platform to stand on.

[CShaveRR]

I remember the whistles on the cabooses of the C&O and GTW when I was growing up in Michigan. C&NW waycars, however, didn't have whistles. I was protecting a backup move on a freight once, and found that out the hard way...by dumping the air!

[john lea]

In working on the RR there are thousands of rules and regulations that guides one through the daily routines of just getting from point a to point b.
Reverse movements, backing moves, wheather in a yard or on the main lines are strictly governed. Before you can reverse you must check with the powers to be, yardmaster, train dispacher & others involved in your reverse move. You must also have the items mentioned by mudchicken. John 4449er on west coast S.J. Div.

[BaltACD]

On CSX what were once known as Cabooses are refered to in the rules as 'Shoving Platforms'.

[Dough]

Their is actually one of those CSX baywindow that is used for reversing movements daily here in Athens, GA. I posted pics of it not to long ago.

It really is nice to see them still in service![;)]

[Anonymous]

Thry all need whisles going backwards

DOGGY

GO KENTUCKY

[Anonymous]

Doggy, email me please.

[Anonymous]

I thought I would bring this back for one more go around. Hopefully we can get a few more comments and learn a little more.

[Rick Gates]

In addition to the eqipment already reviewed and, aside from the rules governing, Some bay widowed cabs had the "Conductors valve" by the bay wondow. This is a means of making a service application of the air for braking however; once used to stop, the air must be dumped and the handle reset to continue. For passenger cars and for long distance backing without a caboose on freight, there is a backup hose. These are usually 6-15 ft. long and attach to the rear hose on the car, angle **** opened and when in a safe position to ride can be used to reduce the air and make a brake application. Backup hoses also have a whistle.[:-^]

[Rick Gates]

Now, do I call the mispelling the "Doggy" effect? CSX Syndrome? Or, what it is. I missed my mistakes until after I clicked submit. Typo-man misstrikes again!