Legend 125T on intermodal cars

[Anonymous]

I have seen a number of double stack cars with a stenciled 125T on the sides. Is this an indication of 125 ton rated 38" wheels installed, or does it have some other significance? Anyone know?

Thanks.

Roger Thomas

[M636C]

Roger,

You are correct, the trucks under the articulation on double stack cars are designed for use under 125 ton capacity cars, and have G type bearings and 38 inch wheels. This is because they are supporting two platforms, and need this load capacity.

The end trucks, supporting a single platform, are generally 100 ton trucks (for 100 ton capacity cars) with 36 inch wheels and F type bearings, and might also be stencilled as such.

The stencilling is to assist in maintenance, particularly since the articulated cars have two types of trucks, and would require different axles and bearings on different trucks of the same articulated "car".

Single unit cars, or those in bar coupled rakes, do not need more than 100 ton trucks.

Peter

[Overmod]

Just in case anyone is confused, "bar coupled rakes" are sets of cars semipermanently coupled by drawbars (as opposed to cars whose ends are articulated over a truck).

[M636C]

Overmod,

Thanks, sometimes I just talk jargon and don't notice!

Peter