We had two different types at the shop In Livingston, MT when I worked there. The big one, similar to Hytec's, could pull a couple unloaded on the level track. However, if the rails were wet, the brakes were almost useless if you were going down any kind of grade, like getting on the transfer table. I remember one day watching a gondola enter the shop through the closed roll up door. Thankfully, the track it entered was empty! It was kind of neat to see the door deform itself slow motion to match the shape of the gondola! Needless to say, the hostler helper was in a panic as he ran into the shop yelling "watch out!" The small one was more like an old Fordson tractor and only pulled one car at a time. They can be a useful tool.
Every girl should do a , windy day, picture. It sure was windy that day ! You should see the other shots I can't post !
Mine wasn't a job. I was good friends with the transportation manager and one day after work he asked me if I wanted to drive the Track Mobile and being a train nut, the answer was easy. Though he close to had a kitten when I bounced the nose off the rails.
I think the red hair does you right. That job in Livingston was probably the most fun a train/locomotive nut could have and get paid for it! Sure wish that industry had survived.
It has been quite a life. Grew up in a family with quite a rich RR heritage. Worked in the industry building and repairing rail (freight) cars. Worked for an engineering firm which did contract work for the BNRR.... And so much, much more, non-RR. Been in this hobby since I could crawl. So much fun. So many great recollections!
