GCOR Locomotive Rules and Inspection

Question 1

Before operating a locomotive, what must crew members do according to GCOR requirements?

Accepted Answer

Inspect the locomotive and report any defects to the proper authority

Answer

Obtain written permission from the dispatcher before boarding

Answer

Test the locomotive at full throttle for a minimum of five minutes

Answer

Sign a daily release form confirming the locomotive is fit for service

Question 2

When a locomotive's automatic brake fails to apply during a required brake test, what action must be taken?

Accepted Answer

The locomotive must be set out and not used until repaired

Answer

The locomotive may continue if the independent brake is functional

Answer

The locomotive may move at restricted speed only

Answer

The conductor must authorize continued use and document the defect

Question 3

Under GCOR, what does the term 'bad order' mean when applied to a locomotive?

Accepted Answer

A locomotive that is defective and must be removed from service

Answer

A locomotive that has exceeded its scheduled maintenance interval

Answer

A locomotive operating below its rated horsepower output

Answer

A locomotive assigned to helper service only

Question 4

According to GCOR, when must the locomotive horn be sounded at a public grade crossing?

Accepted Answer

At approximately one-quarter mile before the crossing and until the locomotive occupies the crossing

Answer

Only when active warning devices are not functioning

Answer

At all times when the locomotive is moving through a crossing

Answer

Only during nighttime operations or in poor visibility conditions

Question 5

If a locomotive's headlight fails during a trip, what does GCOR generally require?

Accepted Answer

Report the defect at the next terminal and take the locomotive out of service

Answer

Continue the trip at reduced speed not to exceed 30 mph

Answer

Proceed only with dispatcher permission and at restricted speed

Answer

Stop immediately and not move until repaired

Question 6

Under GCOR, who is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the locomotive consist?

Accepted Answer

Both the engineer and conductor share equal responsibility

Answer

The engineer alone, as the qualified locomotive operator

Answer

The conductor, as the employee in charge of the train

Answer

The train dispatcher, who controls all movements

Question 7

When a locomotive is placed in multiple unit (MU) service, which locomotive's controls govern the train's braking?

Accepted Answer

The lead locomotive from which the engineer operates

Answer

The locomotive with the highest horsepower rating

Answer

Any locomotive in the consist, as all are interconnected

Answer

The rear locomotive, which acts as the primary retarding unit