For many this exercise is about as exciting as watching grass grow or seeing paint dry. For me, I love everything about block signals. Thanks for the informative video.
Several years ago when CP single tracked their Winchester sub, they replaced all of their block signals with these type. Sections of the removed line were retained as long sidings. Interestingly, they didn’t bother to remove the old telegraph poles, a number of which still have their copper wires in place, but have likely not drawn current in many years.
I have never understood what makes existing signal masts and signal heads non-PTC compliant. I understand that the controls are massively different. But at their most basic, the signals themselves seem pretty low-tech. If there is a qualified signal engineer or maintainer reading this, can you explain? Thanks.
I’ve wondered the same, I just assumed they figured it’d be easier to replace the entire apparatus rather than upgrade it. Amtrak has proved that’s possible
There isn't anything different. The control system doesn't care what style or shape the heads are, they're just some lightbulbs at the end of the day. Oftentimes the work is done at the same time because there will be a signal crew already on site, so it's more efficient. It also brings everything in a certain location up to the railroad's current standard, which makes maintenance easier and cheaper. No sense in having signals that are harder to get parts for when you can replace them for a little added upfront cost.
Block signals are based on assumptions about train speed, length, and length of the block - in order to maintain adequate separation. This approach is now very inefficient. Once the trains are under ptc, the computers are controlling the speed and distance between trains.
Disgusting seeing the signals in the dumpster. how many museums would have taken one of those signals home with them? They're going to do the same thing here in Big Sandy, TX
It’s certainly a bit heartbreaking. Thankfully I was able to work with NS and get some of the fallen signals including the heads from CP Blandon seen in the video, I didn’t put them up yet as I put another G in its spot, it came from CP Burn just up the road in Allentown, 3 heads fully restored and soon to be operational
![Railroad Towns : Selma, North Carolina [4K]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/O2VYhE8visk/mqdefault.jpg)
For many this exercise is about as exciting as watching grass grow or seeing paint dry. For me, I love everything about block signals. Thanks for the informative video.
History that will hopefully never be forgotten.
Several years ago when CP single tracked their Winchester sub, they replaced all of their block signals with these type. Sections of the removed line were retained as long sidings. Interestingly, they didn’t bother to remove the old telegraph poles, a number of which still have their copper wires in place, but have likely not drawn current in many years.
I know some steam locomotives that are equipped with PTC devices to meet the safety regulations.
It’s sad that the Conrail/NYC era G Types had to get replaced. But things have to change.
Just to clarify, I belive 18N Doesn’t orginate out of fostoria.
I have never understood what makes existing signal masts and signal heads non-PTC compliant. I understand that the controls are massively different. But at their most basic, the signals themselves seem pretty low-tech. If there is a qualified signal engineer or maintainer reading this, can you explain? Thanks.
I’ve wondered the same, I just assumed they figured it’d be easier to replace the entire apparatus rather than upgrade it. Amtrak has proved that’s possible
There isn't anything different. The control system doesn't care what style or shape the heads are, they're just some lightbulbs at the end of the day. Oftentimes the work is done at the same time because there will be a signal crew already on site, so it's more efficient. It also brings everything in a certain location up to the railroad's current standard, which makes maintenance easier and cheaper. No sense in having signals that are harder to get parts for when you can replace them for a little added upfront cost.
Block signals are based on assumptions about train speed, length, and length of the block - in order to maintain adequate separation. This approach is now very inefficient. Once the trains are under ptc, the computers are controlling the speed and distance between trains.
@ArtStoneUS so what happens if the computers fail? Do the trains automatically stop or do they run into one an other? Just curious.
Disgusting seeing the signals in the dumpster. how many museums would have taken one of those signals home with them? They're going to do the same thing here in Big Sandy, TX
It’s certainly a bit heartbreaking. Thankfully I was able to work with NS and get some of the fallen signals including the heads from CP Blandon seen in the video, I didn’t put them up yet as I put another G in its spot, it came from CP Burn just up the road in Allentown, 3 heads fully restored and soon to be operational
Limited Clear. Not diverging clear. 44:56
Indeed a Limited Clear. minor error in scripting there 😅
@RailFanMikeProductions I was there railfanning yesterday. Just two trains. Going to work on the footage later on