Looking at the Rochelle web Cam,I am just amazed at the amount of time repair crews are there working on the crossing, appears to be all manul labor. Just what are they doing. Is it both rail lines or one doing it. Just wondering. Ray
Your observation is quite correct especially when you compare it to the diamond in Colton CA which has as much traffic as the Rochelle Diamond has. All I can think is that they are making sure the diamond is intact bolts are tight/spike down/electrical connections in order. In Colton they totally replaced the diamond a year or so ago & maybe that it is why it needs no MW eyes on it. [:I]
[quote]
Originally posted by Jjohnieray
[
IIRC, there is some welding done as well, to replace metal that has worn away (lay the bead, grind it smooth).
ditto
I noticed that too. I figure that the Rochelle Diamonds are the busiest, and , hence, receive a lot of wear and tear. They probably need more attention than most diamond crossings.
For an example: While I was going to to South Suburban Community Collegeback in the 90’s, I took two or three trips a week to nearby Thornton Junction. (The college was originally named after the district for which the junction receive its name.) I noticed maintence crews work here quite often, and from TWO railroads: the UP and the CN’s GTW. Since the junction was the south entrance of Dolton Yard, A LOT of activity can be seen. Three other railroads also uses this junction: the CSX (on trackage rights) from the south and east; Canadian Pacific (on trackage rights) to the south; and Amtrak’s Cardnial and Hoosier State.
Sound like a lot, doesn’t it?
[;)][{(-_-)}]
I’ve heard talk on past visits a few years back, while watching crews work on the interlocking, that they have to replace the points where the rails meet. Heavy trains such as the frequent coal drags that cross there wear them out in a hurry.