24032007 KYN DLS: Cranking the loco

"Cranking the loco" is not as the name suggests a strenuous physical activity. For a WDM2, it is simply pressing a big red switch for a few seconds. In an attempt to make us learn how the braking system works, one DLS employee cranked up the loco.

Two or three people were at work in the pit underneath the WDM2, while we were in or near the cab. After sounding the warning bell twice or thrice, the DLS employee pressed the big switch and the loco came to life.

Notice the 3-tier workplace including the pit. The platform (topmost) at the cab entry level is the place where workers can work on the top part of the loco. Then, there is the middle part for work near the wheels. Finally, at the very bottom, a pit for working under the loco.