Train Driver Train Operations and Controls 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What does a locomotive's 'consist' refer to?
- The combination of all locomotives and cars making up the train (Correct answer)
- The cargo manifest for the trip
- The operational schedule for the route
- The number of crew members on board
Correct answer: The combination of all locomotives and cars making up the train
A consist refers to the complete makeup of a train, including all locomotive units and cars.
Question 2: What is the correct procedure when a train driver detects wheel slip?
- Reduce throttle and apply sand to restore adhesion (Correct answer)
- Increase throttle to power through the slip
- Apply emergency brakes immediately
- Sound the horn and wait for track crew
Correct answer: Reduce throttle and apply sand to restore adhesion
Wheel slip is corrected by reducing throttle to lower torque and applying sand to increase wheel-to-rail adhesion.
Question 3: What is the purpose of a 'running test' of the brakes?
- To verify brake responsiveness at low speed before entering heavy traffic territory (Correct answer)
- To test the brakes at maximum track speed
- To calibrate the brake pressure gauge
- To confirm the emergency brake cable is intact
Correct answer: To verify brake responsiveness at low speed before entering heavy traffic territory
A running brake test confirms that the train's brakes respond properly while the train is in motion at reduced speed.
Question 4: What does 'MU' stand for in locomotive operations?
- Multiple Unit — connecting several locomotives to operate from one cab (Correct answer)
- Maximum Utilization of engine power
- Manual Uncoupling procedure
- Minimum Upgrade speed requirement
Correct answer: Multiple Unit — connecting several locomotives to operate from one cab
MU (Multiple Unit) operation allows a driver in one locomotive to control throttle and brakes of all connected locomotives simultaneously.
Question 5: What action is required before moving a locomotive in the reverse direction?
- Come to a complete stop and set the reverser to reverse (Correct answer)
- Reduce speed to below 5 mph before shifting reverser
- Alert the conductor via radio and then engage reverse
- Apply full service brakes and then change direction
Correct answer: Come to a complete stop and set the reverser to reverse
The locomotive must be at a complete stop before the reverser can be changed from forward to reverse to prevent mechanical damage.
Question 6: What is the purpose of a 'deadman' control on older locomotives?
- A foot pedal or button that cuts power if the driver becomes incapacitated (Correct answer)
- A lever that locks the throttle at a set position
- An automatic coupler release for emergencies
- A device that sounds the horn at all grade crossings
Correct answer: A foot pedal or button that cuts power if the driver becomes incapacitated
The deadman control requires continuous pressure from the driver; releasing it causes a brake application if the driver becomes unable to operate the locomotive.
Train Driver Train Operations and Controls 3
What does a locomotive's 'consist' refer to?