Outsider query on freight bumper posts

[_Henry_]

Hi All,

I am from the UK and am really interested in the heavy haul freight in the US and Canada. I'm trying to find out more and more about this fascinating area. One thing I think I have noticed is that in North America there are very few (perhaps none) bumping posts (what we call 'buffer stops') or earthen mounds in freight yards. Has anyone seen one or has a photo of one that actually exists?

This is quite different to the UK where bumping posts are very numerous - you see them everywhere! So I am quite curious as to why they are fewer in North America.

Many thanks!

 

[bcp]

I suspect they are rare in yards as there are so few tracks that end. Almost all have switches on each end. Maybe UK yards were more limited on room.

Bumpers are very common on industrial spurs but rare in yards.

Bruce

 

[_Henry_]

Thanks Bruce for your reply. Yes, I have noticed that difference and find it quite interesting.

Also, it is fascinating that I have never seen an earthen mound (a pile of earth / soil / aggregate / sand) anywhere in Canada / US even though I thought this was a common thing to put at the end of a dead end track?

 

[bcp]

I've never seen a dirt pile except in photos. The usual quick and easy bumper was a single tie fastened on the top of the rail, or two crossed ties in a vertical X pattern.

Here are some diagrams I posted on a thread about bumpers:

Re: Narrow Gauge – End of Track Devices

What were the common type of devices used at end of spur tracks, especially in rail yards, in the ’30-‘40s? Tom Peterman

ngdiscussion.net

There is a dirt one in there.

Bruce