Re: Flanger Train - Question #2

I don't think there is much "give" in the blade extension if they hit something solid like a rock. The blade is moved by main reservoir pressure (130 lbs or so). As the cylinders are former power reverse units from locomotives, there is air pressure on both sides of the piston to keep it in place.

Flangers (and Jordan Spreaders) operate from an auxiliary air hose on the back of the tender, completely separate from the train line. This air hose is to the left of of the coupler, when looking at the back of the tender. Traditionally, the drag flanger was operated by the engineer. He was responsible for raising and lowering the blade at switches, cattle guards and road crossings. The D&S has rigged up OF to be run from crew members riding in the caboose, relieving the engineer of this duty. However, if the pilot truck flanger is used, the engineer is still responsible for that.