Noob question (probably dumb)

[DryJack]

Hey guys. I wonder if anyone could tell the function of the outlined part and what it was called. Thanks in advance.

[nigb55009]

It`s the communication cord. It`s linked to the train vacuum brake pipe. The metal part sticking out at roof level  ( with the hole in it) is to rest the brake pipe after use.

[sir douglas]

the round parts at the ends connect to the emergency chords inside, when a passenger pulls the chord it works the rods which are connected to the brake pipe at the top of the hose to release the vacuum pressure and apply the brakes

[billbedford]

The flat bits with holes on the ends of the rods, called butterflies, were originally painted red and were to indicate to the guard in which coach the chain had been pulled. Normally they would have been horizontal, and after operating , vertical. 

[DryJack]

Thanks very much guys. Much appreciated.

[nigb55009]

Incidentally, the butterflies could also be used to carry out a brake test, if the train was stood in a platform and the rearmost vehicle didn`t have a brake van. Just turn the butterfly as if the cord had been pulled, then reset it after the brakes had been applied.

[DryJack]

Cheers mate. Really useful info.

[Brassey]

5 hours ago, nigb55009 said:

Incidentally, the butterflies could also be used to carry out a brake test, if the train was stood in a platform and the rearmost vehicle didn`t have a brake van. Just turn the butterfly as if the cord had been pulled, then reset it after the brakes had been applied.

 

Presumably if the train was stood at a platform the brakes would already be on?

[billbedford]

Not if the engine was detached. 

 

[nigb55009]

1 hour ago, billbedford said:

Not if the engine was detached. 

 

Exactly, when a loco was attached to a train prior to departure, if a pilot loco had been added or loco changed en route. It could also happen as a result of a portion being attached or detached at somewhere like Carstairs for example, where Glasgow and Edinburgh portions were split/ coupled. Sometimes this would result in a Buffet car becoming the last vehicle, so the butterfly would be used instead of the valve in the Guards van.

[Brassey]

4 hours ago, billbedford said:

Not if the engine was detached. 

 

it said “train” stood at the platform not coaches so I assumed the loco would still be attached. 

[Jeremy Cumberland]

 

On 07/07/2021 at 05:13, Brassey said:

 

Presumably if the train was stood at a platform the brakes would already be on?

 

11 hours ago, billbedford said:

Not if the engine was detached.

If the engine was detatched, the brakes would be on.

 

However, a train in a platform with the engine attached is usually held on the engine brake, with the train brakes released.