Re: PC: Locomotive Modifications

[lnrr@xxxxxxxx]

> I've noticed how Penn Central covered over many of the windows on
> locomotive cabs with steel plates.  This was especially true in
> locomotives like RS-3's and EMD SW's where there were windows over 
> the
> hood.  Does anyone know the reason for this?  Was it to save on
> replacement glass?

The FRA added a requirement that rail equipment glazing be able to
withstand concrete blocks and small caliber bullets. These replacements
are quite expensive, so many railroads replaced some of the windows with
metal. The little windows in GE cab sides and the middle windows on the
front of switcher cabs were the most common targets for elimination. This
is why most modern cabooses had several windows plated over before they
were replaced by end of train devices.

Bryan Turner
http://homestead.juno.com/lnrr/index.html

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