Re: NR's have Bells!?

[Bob <gioia@fastlink.com.au>]

Chester wrote:

> On Mon, 08 Dec 1997 21:03:12 GMT, kahnn@tpgi.com.au (SJG) wrote:
>
> >NR class locomotives are the only class i know (out of NSW classes
> >even though i know it is a National Rail loco) to have a bell
> >somewhere in the engine compartments which can be operated from the
> >cab. Its use is unknown to me.
> >
> >Maybe someone else may be able to tell you its purpose and whether
> >locos from other states have bells or not.
> >
> >Stefan.
> I dont know what purpose the bell on the NR class is for, but the old
> S.A.R. (A.N.) 500 class and 800 class were fitted with bells. By the
> way does any one know when the first 800 class was fitted with a bell
> or were thay delivered that way?
>
> David Chester

I understand that in the USA and Canada the bells are used for two
reasons. Firstly when a train aproaches a level crossing that has no
bells or lights the bell rings to alert motorists of the aproaching
train. Also when trains are about to move off from a standing start it
is used to warn anyone near the loco of the intended movement of the
loco. This is also used on pass trains leaving
stations.                                            Bob