Re: [Ausloco] Re:Smaller locos leading larger locomotives

[<gm49class@bigpond.com>]

Ausloco mailing list,

I have to disagree with Eddie. In steam days in NSW if one loco was assisting another through a section then the larger loco usually led. 
This was because with double headed steam locos only the compressor of the leading engine operated. Accordingly, regulations stated that the engine with the larger capacity air pump and main resevoir was to be placed in the lead. Generally this rule was observed, but exceptions did occur. 

On the short north on passengers this was usually the case. The exception was down goods where the smaller loco led the larger one.

When banking in the lead, up a bank for a short distance, then the smaller engine was placed in the front for speed in uncoupling at the top.(eg at Tumulla)

With diesels, all the compressors still operate, so quite often it was up to the crews which loco led. Usually branchliners were put in the shafts. (ride, noise, and cab size were often influencing factors).

On the Unanderra - Moss Vale line a diesel with operable dynamic brakes must lead down from Robertson to keep the speed within the 20 km/h speed limit. 

The only exception is the Cockatoo run and when this is only 2 cars the grade control valves are used so that the effective train mass is greater than the loco mas for keeping the train under on the descending 1 in 30s.

Via my pocketmail,

Regards,
Peter Booth

For those who love to email,
I may be contacted on either:
gm49class@bigpond.com or
gm49class@pocketmail.com.au



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