JOHN Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Why did Sounder failed to install "freight speed"
> signs on the 30mph curve where 501 derailed?
> What's the speed Tacoma Rail uses thru the curve?
> I only see Talgo and Passenger speeds but no
> freight.
>
> JOHN
>

If the freight speed is 30 or less (probably 25) then signs aren't needed. 25 for this short a stretch of track makes perfect sense. I recall helping a freight engineer get familiar with a piece of track that had few speed restrictions for freight but lots of 70 or so curves for passenger. After we got around a 40mph curve I told him it was 60 from here on into the terminal and he had no speed restrictions to concern himself with. However he went by several P70 advance boards and P70 speed boards without saying a word but almost panicked seeing the green resume boards wondering if he missed a restriction. The resume boards have no distinction between freight and passenger. As we came into town he asked if it was okay if he left the bell on continuously for the several crossings. Apparently he'd exhausted himself and couldn't hack turning it on and off for each crossing. (Newby note: That was back when the bell didn't automatically come on when blowing the whistle.)