Modeling those impressive pusher operations

[nw-modeling-list at nwhs.org]

On our Chicagoland version of the N&W Pokey we have been using pushers for 
years and this is what we have learned.

when we started pooooosher operations the tiem was set in 1981, we used a 
Kato SD -40 as the poooosher unit. the reasons for this was, that the SD-40 
had enough guts to push things along but could slip if the head end stalled 
etc.We used a KD-5 with the knukle removed so it would seat square but not 
"latch"on the to road train. If a sudden stop of the poooosher with a 
latched up coupler could make some interesting train movements. We did cut 
off on the fly as the current NS does at bluefield yard.

As we have backdated to 1960 with steam all around we use a Life Like y3 as 
the poooosher again with the front coupler with out the knuckle. It is 
really cool to watch a train stall on the hill and have the pooosher get 
into the back end of train and watch the whole thing get up the hill .

The keys are to have loco with just enough stuff not to over power the train 
and not latch on!!


Mike Ritschdorff and crew



>From: nw-modeling-list at nwhs.org

>Reply-To: "N&amp;W Modeling List" <nw-modeling-list at nwhs.org>

>To: nw-modeling-list at nwhs.org

>Subject: Modeling those impressive pusher operations

>Date: Mon, 03 Oct 2005 20:35:53 -0400

>

>Modelers,

>

>How do you 'lock out' the coupler on your pushers to permit a "cut off" on

>the fly leaving the road engine to take her on alone?

>

>Thanks,

>Dave Willis (built 1962, c/n #4)

>N&W Steam Lives on in Indiana.

>

>

>________________________________________

>NW-Modeling-List at nwhs.org

>To change your subscription go to

>http://list.nwhs.org/mailman/options/nw-modeling-list