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In a "nutshell", the dwarf signals are mainly used on sidings, yard tracks, and where space is limited. Much less costly, and easier to maintain than high mounted signals. You will soon see the signal bridges disappear. Along with the old favorites like the PRR and N&W position light signals. B&O's are just about toast now too. The good old "searchlight" signal is also being phased out as new "tri-color" 3 lens signals are replacing them as well. With the elimination of hundreds of signal maintainers, thr RR's need a less maintanence intensive piece of hardware. <br /> The old position light signals had too much wiring, and bulbs. The old target, or searchlight signals were nothing more than an enclosed semaphore mechanism. (too many moving parts). Todays Tri-light signals are simplicity in the extreme, when coupled with modern CTC, and microprocessors replacing the old relay sheds of old. That is how the RR's are able to employ just one single signal maintainer in the same territory that 20 years ago took about 10. Now, is this a good thing? I guess that all depends on what side of the paycheck you are on... Also, I'm more than a little bit concerned about a local RR crossing that sees at least 75 school busses a day, but gets the attention of a signal maintainer perhaps but once a week.... I hate to even think about what could happen. Yes, the busses are supposed to stop and look anyway, but what if the driver is having a "bad day"? <br /> Just food for thought... <br /> Todd C.
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