Re: Transition Couplers

[David Johnson <trainman@ozemail.com.au>]

Ben O'Regan wrote:

> Similarly for the XPT. When an towed by a normal loco, how does the coupling
> work. I've seen a photo (On David Johnson's photo page see:
> http://www.railpage.org.au/pix/XPT/44212_NT-4_Broadmeadow_15-1-91.jpg ) and
> it looks like the coupler and associated brake pipes slide out from under
> the nose. Does this arrangement allow for normal (non-XPT) speeds?

>From XPT General Information and Working Instructions:
"Hauling a Disabled Train with a Locomotive

"When an XPT train [sic] is to be hauled by a locomotive the brake pipe and main
reservoir hoses are to be coupled and associated air cocks opened between the
locomotive and car set and the Driver's brake handles on the XPT placed in the
Release position and the Driver's brake valve isolating cocks closed.

"Where an XPT set cannot be operated under its own power and is required to be
hauled by a locomotive, the set should be manned by a qualified Driver.  The
duties of this Driver will include preparation and stabling, setting up of and
attention to lighting and air conditioning during transit.

"The XPT driver is to travel in the leading driver's cab and the reverser handle
must be placed in the "Engine Only" position to permit use of the Radio, P.A.
system and fault indications."


The Emergency Coupling Head should be stored in the Compressor Compartment, as
are the two Emergency Coupling Pins.

No mention of maximum speed.  I assume 115 km/h.


--
David Johnson
trainman@ozemail.com.au
http://www.ozemail.com.au/~trainman/
------------------------------------
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