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Re: Bootlegging In Capitola Today On The SC&MB
Author: Ken Shattock (KRK)
Date: 09-05-2013 - 21:39
Memories of "McNitting"---
A 1955 Chevrolet is perfect for this, I did (over 40 years ago, not since) hundreds of miles on rails. On good track up to 50 mph, hands off the steering wheel.NP branch to Aberdeen, Vernonia Line over a TALL trestle, Rayonier, Coos Bay Line, Tillamook Line, Sierra Railroad, and more. No mainline, though. It really pays to know EXACTLY where any trains are if you do this. BUT, that was then, this is now. You can't do most of the things we used to do now without SERIOUS consequenses.
Essentially, the weight of the car causes the tires to 'bow' over the railhead. You DID have to use some caution on switches. The car I did it in also had airhorns and trolley bells.
(Memories from 'Edwardjb')
--------------------------------------------
"We started our drive around 3rd & Adeline Streets. Contined thru town, crossed over Oak and Fallon and rode on TOP of the bare rails all the way to 5th Avenue.. By then, we had to go to the bathroom because we were laughing so damn hard.
The practice of "McNitting" is an ART that you come by and have to perfect. I am one of the BEST in this ART...
BUT, you have to have the correct vehicle with the correct wheelbase. The WP trip on 3rd Street was made in an old 1954 Mercury."
(Memories from 'KRK')
A 1955 Chevrolet is perfect for this, I did (over 40 years ago, not since) hundreds of miles on rails. On good track up to 50 mph, hands off the steering wheel.NP branch to Aberdeen, Vernonia Line over a TALL trestle, Rayonier, Coos Bay Line, Tillamook Line, Sierra Railroad, and more. No mainline, though. It really pays to know EXACTLY where any trains are if you do this. BUT, that was then, this is now. You can't do most of the things we used to do now without SERIOUS consequenses.
Essentially, the weight of the car causes the tires to 'bow' over the railhead. You DID have to use some caution on switches. The car I did it in also had airhorns and trolley bells.
(Memories from 'Edwardjb')
--------------------------------------------
"We started our drive around 3rd & Adeline Streets. Contined thru town, crossed over Oak and Fallon and rode on TOP of the bare rails all the way to 5th Avenue.. By then, we had to go to the bathroom because we were laughing so damn hard.
The practice of "McNitting" is an ART that you come by and have to perfect. I am one of the BEST in this ART...
BUT, you have to have the correct vehicle with the correct wheelbase. The WP trip on 3rd Street was made in an old 1954 Mercury."
(Memories from 'KRK')
