TFREE REC Train Operations & Handling Flashcards
7 cards from real REC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 TFREE REC Train Operations & Handling flashcards as text
What is the purpose of 'independent brakes' on a locomotive consist?
Answer: They apply brakes to the locomotive units without affecting train brakes
The independent brake applies braking force exclusively to the locomotive units, allowing the engineer to control locomotive deceleration separately from the train brake system.
A 'reduced-speed' signal indication requires the engineer to:
Answer: Proceed at 30 mph or less and be prepared to stop at the next signal
A reduced-speed indication requires the train to proceed at no more than 30 mph and be prepared to stop at or before the next signal.
What is 'lading shift' and why is it a hazard in train operations?
Answer: Movement of freight within cars that changes car weight distribution and can cause derailment
Lading shift occurs when improperly secured cargo moves inside a freight car, creating uneven weight distribution that can destabilize the car and cause derailment.
Under what condition is a 'restricted speed' movement authorized to proceed past a point not seen to be clear?
Answer: Never — restricted speed requires a clear line of sight at all times
Restricted speed requires the train to be able to stop within half the range of vision and the track must be seen to be clear; there is no exception to proceed past unseen points.
What should an engineer do when the automatic brake valve is placed in 'emergency' position?
Answer: Leave the handle in emergency and make no further adjustments until the train stops
Once the automatic brake is placed in emergency, the handle must remain in the emergency position until the train stops to ensure maximum braking effort is maintained.
What is 'rollby inspection' in railroad operations?
Answer: Visual inspection of a passing train by crew members or ground personnel to detect defects
A rollby inspection involves crew members or wayside personnel visually examining a moving train as it passes to identify hotboxes, dragging equipment, shifted loads, or other defects.
When operating in 'dark territory' (no signal system), what determines safe train spacing?
Answer: Dispatcher-issued track warrants specifying locations and authorities
In dark territory, train movements are governed by track warrants or other written authorities issued by the dispatcher that specify exactly where each train is authorized to be.