Where can I find information on the use of horn and bell on diesels, especially in urban situations and when switching industries in congested areas. It is always required to sound the usual - - 0 - for grade crossings or could it be abbreviated? When is the bell to be sounded? Thanks for any infro or help you can furnish.
The information has appeared in MR numerous times and hasn’t changed from steam. Basically the last blast for a grade crossing is to be continued until the engine has crossed the street and should be sounded a minimum amount of time before the engine reaches the street. As to other individual meanings the use of Whistle or horn has been supplanted for the most part by radios. You will also need to do some research about the specific prototype you are modeling as most roads had some anomolies to universal usage and meaning.
Use of whistles and bells is covered by railroad operating rules and by special instructions issued in employee timetables. Many municipalities have banned the use of railroad whistles within city limits, except in cases of emergency.
Where it is allowed, a slow-speed movement will often use an abbreviated grade crossing whistle signal, but it will still be in the - - 0 - form. (When a train is moving at track speed, the whistle signal usually should be commenced 1/4 mile in advance of the crossing.)
The bell is to be rung when approaching and passing over public crossings at grade, and while passing through tunnels and snow sheds. Except when switching, the bell also should be sounded when an engine is about to move.
Thanks for the info, “ndbprr” and “fiverings.” It was very helpful.
look up the NEW horn rules from the FRA… i think they are posted on thier websight…
http://www.fra.dot.gov/us/content/1318
here is the link to the main menu
csx engineer
Thanks to you as well, CSX engineer! I appreciate it.