SP5103 Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> THe Brandt concept was originally developed with
> the idea that a Canadian grain elevator could by
> their section of branch of operate short trains
> themselves to preserve direct rail service.
>
> It has been adopted by several Class 1s and
> contractors for use in MOW service since it can be
> operated by MOW workers and does require calling a
> work train and crew. There is a 26C automatic
> brake valve located on the center floorboard.
>
> The key issue here is that this is a maintenance
> move, not a "train" by legal definition. The rules
> are different, though the physics are the same.
> This issue has caused problems before. IIRC -
> didn't a Brandt run away on Cantera a few years
> ago? And the rail grinding train that ran away on
> Donner was another being operated under MOW
> rules.
>
>
> The FRA has a set of modified rules to blue card a
> Brandt. I know of one operator that does use one
> as a locomotive in shortline and contract
> switching, with mixed performance and reliability
> results so far.
>
> This is one of those grey areas of railroad
> regulations. Is it a train or maintenance
> equipment, and what are the qualifications needed
> to operate it?

Like this incident where a contractor was using a UP truck and let the cars get away and derail near Dunsmuir: [www.altamontpress.com]