How many engineers does it take to change the brakes on a train?
The next step is for us along with our contractors, Veolia and Bombardier, to determine the proper procedure for the installation of the new 100g split disc rotors. Together we will take all safety factors into consideration. Once all parties approve this process, we will begin the installation of the new rotors onto the Sprinter test vehicle. FRA and CPUC officials will observe the installation. We have invited representatives from Siemens (the Sprinter manufacturer) and certified California engineers to observe the installation and the testing and to review the data.
This really gives an idea of how over-regulated passenger rail has become. Representatives from two government agencies are supervising, plus the various contractors and other “invited” guests.
And here is a photo of the test-run. Note how they are paying a flagman to stand around holding a Stop sign — in addition to the perfectly operating crossing gates. Can’t be too careful!
And this testing is expected go on for months:
Sunday’s test, in which one train ran between Escondido and San Marcos, was the first in what’s expected to be a weeks- or months-long overall evaluation period. “Everything went great” Sunday, transit district spokeswoman Frances Schnall said Monday. “Everyone was really pleased with how things went.”
The train reached speeds of up to 50 mph, she said. State law imposes a 55 mph speed limit on the train.
Yep, 55 mph speed limit. Can’t be too careful!
Just be glad it didn’t have a lithium-ion battery in it….
They also should have checked copyright on the “Sprinter” name. It was used for the Class 156DMU in the eighties and is owned by Metro Camell, now Alstom. A potential law suit , I think.
@garethlwood “Sprinter” is probably not protectable, because it has also been in use at NS, probably before the Class 156.