Autocoach-fitted locos

The common hazard of Wiki then.

 

A push pull train has been a long time ambition of the KWVR as this kind of service was originally present there. Lack of a Midland 0-4-4 and carriages being a bit of a stumbling block though i dare say the ivatt 2 and a couple of suitable vehicles (couldn't say what kind or where from) would be a fair substitute...

 

There was, although I believe a second engine was attached at the rear to facilitate this. Best picture I can find is here http://www.timlaw.supanet.com/railways.htm

 

A 3 coach push pull set was regularly used on the Oxenhope branch in the late 50's (details and photos on RM web).
My understanding is that the limit of only 2 cars ahead of the engine was due to the friction in the mechanical rodding on the G.W. system i.e. the driver wouldn't have the physical strength to open and shut the regulator on more than 2 cars. The vacuum operated LMS system or air operated SR or LNER systems wouldn't have this problem. I assume that on the 4 coach autos working out of Plymouth (and on the fledgling, then, Dart Valley c1970/1) the 2 cars trailing the loco ran with the rodding uncoupled. Maybe someone can confirm this. Ray.

 

When working with the loco sandwiched between 2+1 or 2+2 trailers the linkage is only coupled on the leading that are being propelled. On arrival at the terminating or reversing point the linkage in the cab connecting the leading coaches is disconnected and the other (previously trailing) coaches are then coupled. It is quite a simple and quick task to swap from one to the other.

 

Hello Martin,

Not as such, a Down train worked into Templecombe by the train loco, it was drawn back out by another loco, which then uncoupled allowing the train loco to continue working the train south. An up train was stopped just beyond the junction for Templecombe, where a loco was then attached to the rear of the train. This loco pulled the whole ensemble up the gradient into Templecombe. That loco was then uncoupled. The train loco then worked the northbound train away from Templecombe.

Very Best Wishes,
Bob.