Mahatma Kane Jeeves Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> PCCs, of which the 1003 is really one despite its
> hand controller, won't run reliably if the line
> voltage is less than 380. Boeing-Vertol Lighter
> than Rail Vehicles require a minimum of 480 volts.
> The Muni had to upgrade its DC distribution system
> when it got the PCCs (during rush hour the voltage
> got as low as 150 or less at the Zoo, but the Iron
> Monsters didn't care) -- had to do it a again for
> the LRVs.
>
> PCCs trucks aren't designed to be used on open
> track like the SN main line. It breaks the
> equalizer bars on B-2 trucks, but I forget what
> happens with to the B-3s. PCCs are designed to be
> started, run a block or two, and stopped at the
> next passenger stop. Running them for prolonged
> periods at speed, for miles, can cause problems
> with the resistor ribbons if the operators aren't
> careful.

Sorry but Muni #1003 does not have Clark PCC trucks. It has Brilliner trucks. Muni #1016 has Clark B-3 trucks that were designed for operation on open track found in the tunnels and the M line.

PCC cars operated regularly on lines with long distances of open running with no problems in Los Angeles, Baltimore, Pittsburg, and many other cities. The controllers advance past the resistance points very quickly. Operator foot pedal or hand controls merely adjust the rate of acceleration. Except for a few very old PCC cars that were equipped with a switching point on the controller, a PCC controller will automatically advance to full power any time power is turned on. All the operator can do is control the rate of advance.

Lack of heat was a problem in cities like Pittsburg where heat from motor control resistors was used to warm the car. Cars would get cold inside during the long runs between stops.