I thought that modern engines had lights that lit up at certain intervals, then the engineer had to hit a button. Otherwise, the engine would automatically stop. I have read about this safety measure, and it is intended to stop this exact type of thing.
What do you think? Is it not required on all engines?
------------------ Elias Valley Railroad (N-scale) www.geocities.com/evrr
Posted by mikman (Member # 624) on :
As a train driver in Australia I followed the CSX runaway story with interest. You are right, all modern locos (in Australia, and I assume it's the same in the US) are equipped with a "vigilance" system which the driver must acknowledge at regular intervals or the train brakes will go into emergency and stop the train. This system can easily be circumvented, usually by flicking a switch or closing an air cock to prevent the system working in case of malfunction etc.