SP 0-6-0 Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> I sometimes notice dented pilots on F-units. I
> suppose anything from a rock or automobile could
> have caused it. But is it possible that two
> F-units coupled head-to-head can smash pilots
> together in a hard couple or slack run-in?

No.


> Did EMD put the replaceable plate under the
> coupler?

Yes. That is the access "door" to the Barco Steam Conduit for coupling to the steam train line on passenger cars. Only supplied on pilots on units equipped with steam generators, or pass-through steam train lines.


Or is that a custom repair that the
> carriers made?

Nope.


> Side note: Pretty cool that there was an F3 still
> around in the 1970's. Darn shame a surviving F3
> was scrapped at such a late date.
>
> Two examples:
>
> F3A Chicago IL, 06-15-1974
> [www.ebay.com]
> 44ca4c7:g:WJcAAOSwnsRhKBu2
>
>
>
> Sacramento, 10/1968
> [www.ebay.com]
> 1b91845:g:w60AAOSworZhHxMm
>
>