an example of the incorrect and the correct way of building up a
local freight train.
b. Typical local.
Switching and building up a local in proper
station order can be rather complicated if a large number of cars of
numerous groupings is involved.
Figure 2.6 represents an 0500-hour
track check of track 14 in Conroy yard. Cars have been switched in
on this track for the previous 22 hours without regard to grouping or
partial grouping. The yardmaster has marked the check for switching;
note that the check reveals cars for every station except one between
Conroy and AY yard. Cars for AY yard are also included and will move
on the local next to the caboose.
(1) An examination of figure 2.6 shows that there would be 13
cuts of 8 groupings if the track were switched according to the track
numbers in column I. Moreover, eight tracks would be required. The
track would be switched in two cuts, the first consisting of the 9 AY
cars and the second of the remaining 35 cars. To switch the entire
track in one cut would be a waste of power because of the innumerable
back and forth movements of these 9 cars which could be disposed of
initially in one move.
Another disadvantage of switching the track
in one cut would be that, after the entire track was switched, the
crew would have the 9 AY cars at the head end of all other groups.
To get them in their proper place--the rear end of the train--the
crew would have to reverse them with the LY group or use an extra
track to dispose of them. Using a separate track would make an extra
double when the train was doubled together.
A switching list,
showing the slow and incorrect method, as given in column I, is shown
next.
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