[PRR-talk] RMC PRR G22 article

[Bruce Smith]

Folks,

Looking at the article by James Kinkaid on the PRR G22B container gon in
the current issue of RMC (May 2008), I have some questions.

First, in several places, Mr. Kinkaid refers to "KC" brakes.  However,
during this period the PRR was very fond of the "split" KD system,  the
Westerfield instructions show a KD system, and close examination of the
first prototype photo in the article, of PRR 353064, appears to show the
reservoir side of a KD equipped G22B.  Given that, did these cars really
have KC or KD systems when built?

Second, the underbody drawing by Mr. Kinkaid in the article shows an
arrangement for the brake lever connected to the handbrake that differs
from both PRR practice and the Westerfield instructions.  The drawing
shows the fixed end of this lever connected to the cross-tie by a long
rod, the lever directly connect to the brake cylinder and overlapping the
brake lever.  Normal PRR practice (reflected in the Westerfield G22
instructions) of the period had this lever connected directly to the side
sill of the car with a fitting and connected to the brake lever with a
rod.  Which is correct for the G22?

My suspicion is that the article is promulgating incorrect prototype
information, however, I do want to keep an open mind <G>...

Regards
Bruce

Bruce Smith
Auburn, AL