This information is from The Standard Code of Operating Rules adopted March 1949.
Rule 14. Engine Whistle Signals
Note:The signals are illustrated by "O" for short sounds, "—" for longer sounds, and "— — —" for extra long sounds.
| Sound | Indication |
|---|---|
| (a) O | Apply brakes. Stop |
| (b) — — | Release brakes. Proceed |
| (c) — O O O | Flagman protect rear of train |
| (d) — — — — | Flagman may return from west or south |
| (e) — — — — — | Flagman may return from east or north |
| (g) O O | Answer to any signal not otherwise provided for |
| (h) O O O | When train is standing, back. Answer to 12(d) and 16(c) [trainmen's signal to back] When train is running, answer to 16d [signal to stop at next station] |
| (j) O O O O | Call for signals |
| (k) — O O | [Single track]To call attention of engine and train crews of trains of the same class, inferior trains and yard engines and of trains at train order meeting and waiting points, to signals displayed for a following section. If not answered by a train, the train displaying signals must stop and ascertain the cause unless otherwise provided. [Two or more tracks] To call attention of engine and train crews and yard engines, to signals displayed for a following section. |
| (l) — — O — | Approaching public crossings at grade. To be prolonged and repeated until crossing is reached |
| (m)Succession of long sounds | Approaching stations, junctions, railroad crossings at grade and other locations as may be required |
| (n) — — O | Approaching meeting or waiting points (See rule S-90) |
| (o) O — | Inspect train line for leaks or for brakes sticking. |
| (p)Succession of short sounds | Alarm for persons or livestock on the track |
| (q) — O | Where there are 2 main tracks on which movements are made in either direction by signal indications, trains on the left track will sound this signal preceding signal 14(d) or 14(e). |
This information is from The Standard Code of Operating Rules Effective 2018-02-01.
Rule 20 Engine Bell
If a train is equipped with an engine bell, it must be sounded:- When the engine is about to move
- When running through tunnels
- When approaching locations where Roadway Workers may be at work on tracks
- While approaching and passing public highway crossings at grade, bridges, and other points
- When passing a train standing on an adjacent track
- In an emergency
- In cases where a momentary stop and start, forward and backward movement is part of a switching operation that does not involve movement over a public highway crossing at grade, the engine bell need not be sounded, unless Roadway Workers are known to be in the area.
Realism is up to the Model Railroader
DCC has given the model railroader a whole new level of action and interest. This also brings added realism to our railroads but if and only if we employ them. That is up to you.If you have an idea for a blog post here, let me know. If I can comment on it, I will or I'll see if someone else can and post it.
