Switching questions

[ccowan2126]

I watched some videos on switching and noticed the conductor using a long pole to set/release brake wheels. Is there a minimum number of cars that need brakes set when setting out cars at a siding? I saw one video in which there were several cars set out, but only two cars brakes were set. Any info would be appreciated.

Thanks.

 

[stealthsteam]

The rule is that you set enough hand breaks to hold the cut of cars in place. It all depends on weather the track is level and how heavy the cut of cars are to how many hand breaks are needed. Sometimes one is sufficient and other times you need more. There is a bit more to it but that is the general factors involved.

 

[ccowan2126]

That makes sense after all doesn't it? Thanks for the info!

 

[nicky9499]

Number of Cars
Number of Brakes
1-2
1
3-9
2
10-19
3
20-29
4
30-39
5
40-49
6
50-59
7
60-69
8
70-79
9

When securing cars on a slope:
Apply more than the minimum required
Apply hand brakes to the cars on the lower end of the slope

From: http://safetyauthority.ca/sites/default/files/BCSA-Railway-Safety-Handbook-download.pdf

Cheerio,
Nicholas

 

[ccowan2126]

Thanks for that. I put that booklet on my desktop for future reference.