Re: Steepest train/tram line

[billboltonREMOVE-TO-EMAIL@computer.org (Bill Bolton)]

"David Martin" <d_martin@mountains.net.au> wrote:

> What is the steepest gradient used on a train or tram line?

The former single track Neutral Bay Tram line in Sydney had a ruling
gradient of 1 in 8.75, which extended for several chains near the
lower end of Wycombe Road, beyond Shell Cove loop.

Even after the requirements for additional braking had been relaxed on
others steeply graded parts of the former Sydney tram system,
passenger carrying trams on the Neutral Bay line were restricted to
types with additional braking facilities.  This was initially 4 wheel
cars from the C, D, E, H and K classes which were equipped with extra
mechanical track brakes.  In later years a single R1 (1999 on trial
and later 2029 permanently) was fitted with additional resistors on
the roof between the trolley basses to provide rheostatic braking and
provide the regular service on the line.  A pair of single truck track
brake equipped Ks (1295/1296) cars were retained for use when the R1
was unavailable due to scheduled maintenance. 

Many years ago Modern Tramway ran a series of articles on steeply
graded lines and I remember being surprised that there a quite a
number of adhesion only lines in Europe which were steeper than
Neutral Bay, but I have no recollection now of exactly where they
were. 

Cheers,

Bill