Monitoring CSX activity in Rockville,Maryland I often here stalled train engineers being told by Jacksonville dispatchers to preform a safety three step disconnect before retrying to start the engine lash up on the stalled train. What does this do and why are they always told to do it first? Can we get a labeled section drawing off the internet for this CSX area? What site address should we use? trainsopray1@aol.com
Three step is the engineer 1) setting the brake, 2) placing the reverser in neutral and removing the handle, and 3) isolating the traction motors. It’s usually done when there will be someone moving between equipment to connect hoses and such. Not sure why they’d call for it when a train is stalled.
Its called Three Point Protection, and it is used to make absolutley sure the engine does not move while a crewman is in between. ALL railroads use variations of it.
Thanks, I have always wondered about that too.