When a train has picked up a block of cars previously tested but off air for over 24 hours, what is required before proceeding?

When a train has picked up a block of cars previously tested but off air for over 24 hours, what is required before proceeding?

• A. An Initial Terminal Air Brake Test on the portion picked up and an Application and Release test on the rear car
• B. A 1,000 mile Inspection Test
• C. A Transfer Train Movement Air Test
• D. An Air Brake Test Notification form

Answer: (A)

When you couple onto a block of cars that was previously tested but has been off air for more than 24 hours, you must re-establish brake continuity and verify operation before moving. The required steps are to perform an Initial Terminal Air Brake Test on the portion of the train you picked up and an Application and Release test on the rear car. The Initial Terminal Air Brake Test checks that the portion you added will apply and release brakes correctly when the train brakes are commanded and ensures the brake pipe is charged in that portion after coupling. The Application and Release test on the rear car confirms the brakes along the entire train respond to brake signals and that there are no leaks or valve issues at the end of the train, guaranteeing uniform brake action. The other options don’t fit this scenario: a 1,000 mile inspection is not prompted merely by a 24-hour off-air condition; a Transfer Train Movement Air Test is for certain transfer moves between yards or locomotives; and an Air Brake Test Notification form is paperwork, not the actual required brake tests.

When you couple onto a block of cars that was previously tested but has been off air for more than 24 hours, you must re-establish brake continuity and verify operation before moving. The required steps are to perform an Initial Terminal Air Brake Test on the portion of the train you picked up and an Application and Release test on the rear car. The Initial Terminal Air Brake Test checks that the portion you added will apply and release brakes correctly when the train brakes are commanded and ensures the brake pipe is charged in that portion after coupling. The Application and Release test on the rear car confirms the brakes along the entire train respond to brake signals and that there are no leaks or valve issues at the end of the train, guaranteeing uniform brake action.

The other options don’t fit this scenario: a 1,000 mile inspection is not prompted merely by a 24-hour off-air condition; a Transfer Train Movement Air Test is for certain transfer moves between yards or locomotives; and an Air Brake Test Notification form is paperwork, not the actual required brake tests.