Cab signals

[capltd29]

Last Summer, i rode the Auto Train to FL, and train 53 was about 1 1/2 hrs late departing Lorton because the cab signal was not working, the had to turn the trailing unit so that it was facing forward.

My questions are,

1. Why is it not legal to operate without a cab signal, if there are signals on the Main Line and

2. Why didnt they test this while the train was sitting in the station instead of discovering this after the train was pulling out onto the main line, and delaying the train?\

Im riding this train again on easter sunday, any thoughts about these cab signals?

Jon Parker

 

[battalion51]

Well any engine that will operate in CSS (Cab Signal System) must have a Cab Signal test performed at the engine's initial terminal, be certified, and have the proper paperwork on board that the Engineer must review and sign, as well as perform an Audible Alarm test when he takes charge of the engine (CSX Operating Rule 351) If a cab signal failure occurs which can include

- Audible alarm failure

- Audible alarm continues to sound even after acknowledging the signal

- Cab signal fails to conform at two consecutive signals

- Any part of the apparatus fails or is damaged

- Approaching a Stop, Stop and Proceed, Slow Approach, or Slow Clear signal with a Cab Signal greater than Approach

-De-engergization of the cab signal

If any of these occur the cab signal must be deemed a failure according to CSX Operating Rule 355. If the engine has a failure it is considered to not have the apparatus (since it's not working). If this occurs according to Rule 350 the train must have a Form EC-1 issued and cannot exceed restricted speed (15 MPH).

As far as why it's illegal to operate with cab signals, it's not as Rule 350 described above, it's just going to be real slow. For the Chief Dispatcher and Section Dispatcher (who have to issue that EC-1), it makes much more sense to force 53 to turn the trailer (which has operating cab signals) around so that the train doesn't take up an excessive amount of block space. It also probably saved delay by turning the engine rather than proceeding for 100 miles at 15 mph.