by Peaks1985
I have a question that some of you may be able to answer. Switchers generally have 2 axle trucks and mainline locomotives 3 axle trucks. What's the difference? Why not just use the larger trucks on the switching lines? When I was in Flagstaff, AZ the two BNSF "switchers" (really just Dash-7 I think) with only 2 axle trucks. It seems to be a waste to purchase these locomotives for the light duty.
Another comment, trucks often have axles which can be lifted up from the road (for example dump trucks which use 2 axles sometimes, and when the load is too much put the 3rd axle down), why not design a truck like that for a locomotive? Any help would be appreciated.
Another comment, trucks often have axles which can be lifted up from the road (for example dump trucks which use 2 axles sometimes, and when the load is too much put the 3rd axle down), why not design a truck like that for a locomotive? Any help would be appreciated.