You need to decrease the speed of a conventional train on an ascending grade. Which of the following is the best method?

You need to decrease the speed of a conventional train on an ascending grade. Which of the following is the best method?

• A. Allow the grade to slow the train, reducing throttle one notch at a time to maintain a slack-stretched condition
• B. Use full service brake immediately
• C. Increase throttle to hold speed
• D. Let the train coast to a stop

Answer: (A)

On an ascending grade, gravity naturally slows the train, so you want to use that to your advantage. Easing back the throttle gradually, one notch at a time, lets the grade contribute to deceleration while the slack between cars remains taut. This produces a smooth, controlled slowdown, minimizes brake wear and the risk of wheel slip, and avoids the jolt you’d get from a sudden brake application or from trying to hold speed with more power. Coasting or a rapid brake application would be less controlled and riskier on a grade.

On an ascending grade, gravity naturally slows the train, so you want to use that to your advantage. Easing back the throttle gradually, one notch at a time, lets the grade contribute to deceleration while the slack between cars remains taut. This produces a smooth, controlled slowdown, minimizes brake wear and the risk of wheel slip, and avoids the jolt you’d get from a sudden brake application or from trying to hold speed with more power. Coasting or a rapid brake application would be less controlled and riskier on a grade.