Re: Cut levers or what ever they are called.

Actually you have to remember that in the pre-radio days most crews worked with five to six men on the ground and two in the cab. Signals were passed man to man for up to 60 cars at a time. Remember too, that walking and riding on the top of cars was not only allowed, but required as part of the job.

As for cut levers, they are set up in a specific manner for a reason. When facing the locomotive, with your back to the car you are cutting away, the cut lever is to your left. IF you are making a cut with the cut lever in front of you, facing the locomotive, you are on the wrong side for the cut. Sometimes this is necessary in curves or spot tracks where knuckles get bound up, and sometime the knuckles are just messed up and won't open. Generally speaking, it is the best practice to make the cut with the cut lever on the car you are leaving stationary, or leaving behind so that the next joint made on that car is as easy as possible. This also creates the safest body mechanics for lifting the cut lever. Some levers are heavy and the pins are hard to move and can cause damage to your back. Leaning forward to reach for a cut lever can cause damage to you lower back as you bend upwards making the cut.

Leaving a bull nosed or closed knuckle behind for the next guy is poor sportsmanship too and can land you in hot water. You can always open the knuckle you have easier than the one you are approaching. It just makes it easier, and safer.