Prototype pilot plate and plow question

[Deleted]

I do not know if this is standard plow installation procedure or not. I would appreciate if someone could correct me if I am wrong.

I am directing this question toward the SD40-2, but I am pretty sure it apples to other locomotives as well. From what I can tell, a typical pilot plate has a slot opening in it below the coupler buffer plate. It runs from under the buffer plate all the way down through the bottom of the pilot plate. I believe this is to facilitate the installation of the pilot plate over the draft gear box and then the buffer plate is welded in place. On the rear of the unit, there is typically another plate bolted across the bottom of the pilot plate which covers most of this slot. On the front though with a plow, I believe this slot is open all the way down and the plow just simply crosses it. There is no additional plate bolted across the bottom of the pilot like on the rear. 

So when building a prototype model that uses a plow, there SHOULD be an opening through the pilot plate under the buffer plate?

Am I correct with this or am I missing something?

[icghogger]

You are correct, Brian. the opening is to allow for daily inspection of the draft gear.

[Deleted]

Thanks Robert for the quick reply. Tonight I can correct my model to better represent this.

So in reality, the old Athearn BB models are correct. The draft gear is ugly and the slot is a bit too wide, but correct nevertheless.

[tpwillie]

Part of the hole is covered even with a plow attached. It is bolted on. I have a picture of TP&W GP38-2 2011 taken October, 1979. This unit was equipped with a plow at the factory but for some reason it is missing at this time. There is a section in primer where the plow mounted. I would post a copy of the picture but I don't know how on this board. I would forward a copy if you like.

I also have a picture of TP&W 901 from 1976 that shows the opening under the draft gear. There is no "plate" on the bottom of this one. It has the section with the MU hose holder all the way across the pilot.

The TP&W GP7s, GP20 and GP30 do not have the hole in the pilot.

Hope this helps.

Lou

[milw199]

Chopped open pilot.






GP7 plow and pilot area




GP38-2 rear pilot



SD40-2 rear pilot



FRA requires something across the full width.  If no plow, then sometimes the shop will tack in a small piece of metal. 

[iomalley]

Interesting alignment 'wedge' on that GP9, to keep things straight while shoving. That unit probably works with cars with long drawbars on a regular basis...

[milw199]

Jun 23, 2014 18:38:32 GMT -5 iomalley said:

Interesting alignment 'wedge' on that GP9, to keep things straight while shoving. That unit probably works with cars with long drawbars on a regular basis...

That is how this GP7 has alignment control couplers.  Reduces jackknifing. 

The only stuff without alignment control are the MP15ACs.