Air Brakes and Train Handling Rules - Alaska Railroad

64.8 Making Shoving Movements64 Train HandlingDuring shoving movements, a locomotive can generate excessivelateral forces at the head of the train. To avoid jackknifing, wheelclimb, or rail turnover, consider these factors before making a shovingmovement:• Short car/long car combinations and their location in the train• The number of empties near the head end of the train• The tractive effort of powered axles• Track curvature and grade64.9 Making Switching MovementsWhen switching cars, follow these switching movement rules:1. When starting or stopping switching movements, graduallystretch or bunch slack.2. When using multiple locomotives, limit buff and draft forces.3. To determine if cars need air cut in and brakes operative, considerthese factors:• Rail conditions• Weight of the cars• Grade• Distance required to stop• Number and type of locomotives64.10 Temporary Speed RestrictionsWhen moving through an area with a temporary speed restriction:1. If possible, release train air brakes and dynamic brakes beforeentering the restricted area.2. Use the lowest possible throttle position for running or starting.3. Avoid changing train speed or slack condition.4. Do not exceed the locomotive brake cylinder pressure as outlinedin Table 64-A, Locomotive Brake Cylinder Pressure Limitations.June 1, 1996 ARRC Air Brakes and Train Handling Manual 64-15