Gidday, Have very recently bought a Bowser undecorated Pennsylvania N5c caboose kit and am wondering what these parts are for. They are not mentioned or shown on the parts list or assembly drawing and while I have had a very quick look at some prototype photos, its got me beat.[^o)]
!http://i1056.photobucket.com/albums/t361/JaBearz/DSCF4271_zps0b3e3e45.jpg
Thanks, Cheers, the Bear.
Those are stanchions and induction coils for PRR’s “Trainphone” communication system. It used magnetic induction instead of radio frequencies, and was mounted on the roof of both locomotives and cabin cars. Here’s a link to an article explaining the system;
Here’s a link with a photo:
Hope that helps.
Gidday Chris, thank you very much for your consise answer. Another classic case of assumption on my part [:$],
I had always assumed that the aerials on PRR locos were part of a steam driven HF radio system built solidly, the PRR way, to withstand the rigors of winter weather and general wear and tear.
Thanks again for setting me straight.
Cheers, the Bear.
One thing to be aware of. To complete the trainphone antenna rig you need a piece of very thin steel wire which is not included in the kit. The plastic supports are very fragile and require great care in their assembly. Cal Scale has a brass version of this detail which is much sturdier and better to work with. Its also prototypical to leave if off entirely since the only part of the PRR that was equipped for trainphone operation was the mainline from Harrisburg west. Other parts of the system didn’t require it and it didn’t work at all in electrified territory because of interference from the high voltage catenary.
Gidday Jim, though my freelanced railroad bought cabooses off the PRR, the bean counters weren’t going to pay for the communications package.
Many thanks for your interesting reply,
Cheers, the Bear.
