Re: image from Homestead, PA in 1915
Eric Hansmann
Mill gondolas had drop-door ends to haul loads that were longer than the car. These may extend onto another car with a bearing plate for the load to ride upon. The chains are a safety to keep the cars together in case of coupler failure.
I don’t know if the chain connections were a requirement for these loads. In reviewing the Loading of Materials section of the 1919 Car Builder Directory, I do not see the chain connections noted with loads spanning multiple cars.
Eric Hansmann Murfreesboro, TN
From: main@RealSTMFC.groups.io <main@RealSTMFC.groups.io> On Behalf Of Alex Huff
Sent: Saturday, September 5, 2020 11:53 AM To: main@RealSTMFC.groups.io Subject: Re: [RealSTMFC] image from Homestead, PA in 1915
The BR&P gon has what I think are "safety chains" on the end sill. Three links are to the right of the coupler, two links and a hook are to the left. Was this "system" ever an industry requirement? If not, how widespread was it? When was it discontinued or least no longer maintained.
|
|