Thanks for posting all 6 of these videos, I work for a light rail company but, I always pass freight signals and you have answered the questions that have puzzled my mind for over a year. Thanks again.
These are great videos. I've watched those posted by the FRA and they are SO dry and confusing. I go away scratching my head over what they're talking about. Plus they show only paper diagrams. It's SO much better to see the signals and trains as you show them. Makes learning a great deal easier.
Danny, Thanks for the info on dwarf signals. I was always curious about them and their placement. You cleared that up when you said restricted speed, restricted line of sight and ease of maintenance. Keep those videos coming.
I did wonder how the Teco trolley diamond was regulated. Restricted slow and relatively short, light traffic on the main, this makes sense. Thanks Danny
Danny, another great video from you! In addition to the fact that you have a lot of knowledge about signaling, there is something about your narration that is very engaging. It keeps my interest and I find I want to view more of your videos.
Dan, I just finished your 6 part "Course on CSX signals". I found it fascinating and most educational. Thank you for your efforts. Now, I must do it several more times for everything to "sink in".
I'm more educated about Florida signalling thanks to this. Our signalling around Southeast Texas is pretty easy to learn compared to Florida. We do have one line that is ABS track warrant controlled and that is the Lufkin Sub or Rabbit line, an ex SP dark territory subdivision changed to ABS track warrant control due to a major headon collision a few years back that killed the crew of a southbound that crashed into a parked rock train because the crew of the rock train failed to properly lock the switch since dark territory was totally dependent on proper crew procedures.
Doll arms and side-by-side signals were employed back in the day when putting signals to the left of the track was illegal. The common practice at the ends of sidings was to use a high signal for the main track and a dwarf for the siding. When the main track was to the left, then the doll arm would be needed.
Hi Dany. Just to clear up the dwarf at Lacoochee.The lights below the red "second head" are yellow and green. This allows the dwarf to display MEDIUM clear and approach instead of slow. The top head is an oddity, and it displays what may be the most rare indication on the entire CSX system. See, the top head has a yellow light. This would allow it to display approach as well as approach medium/limited, but because it is a medium speed route this does not work. There is no color light dwarf indication for Medium Approach Medium, so only 1 option remains. Yellow over yellow, which on a dwarf is MEDIUM Advance Approach. In other words, Medium speed through the switch, preparing to stop 2 signals away. Hope I cleared that up for you, I just figured it out myself now.
I guess this is an example of a location requirement signal based on what is up ahead and what aspects they want displayed at this particular switch even though the tracks are converging instead of diverging. On the right of the main, they have a 3 over 2 signal where normally, to me, it should be just a single head 3-position light if the dwarf governs the left track, but the dwarf has 5 lights as well.
I've been trying to get my head around American railway signalling for ages. There are many different speed and route signalling systems here in Europe but they have a fundamental principle in common: never pass a red light. Now you know why I've been confused all along. Having watched these few videos I think I get it now. Although I am still not sure if there is a way to indicate restricted speed at the next signal. Also how shunting movements are signalled.
Where are the dispatchers ? Up here in Michigan, we don't have the train traffic you guys have. My son and I have figured out the signals but have never seen yellow lights on the track at all, only red and green.
Danny, i’m curious to know if you’ve ever done any rail fanning right before a hurricane? That must be a very busy time? I’m assuming all companies (Amtrak included) are trying to get all of their equipment out of the area?
One thing I'm surprised you didn't mention in these six videos on reading signals is the rule about signal ambiguity or malfunction. Basically the rule is that in the event of any malfunction of a signal, or if somehow a signal was displaying mixed messages (not very likely in modern systems), it is to be interpreted as the most restrictive signal that post is capable of producing. In most instances that would be stop, but in others it might be approach slow or medium. This interpretation is in effect until a train dispatcher overrides it, the train clears that block, or the signal is repaired.
You're right. I just covered these these signal aspects and indications in no particular order and I even missed a couple of them. I didn't really delve into the rules too much.
White is Restricting and is only found on absolute signals. Red on a signal with a P, G, or mile plate is Restricted proceed and is only found on those signals (Sometimes called Intermediates). If a signal is showing an improper signal indication, there is several rules about that but most common is to stop with good train handling unless situation requires an emergency application and call the dispatcher.
Andrew Burlin, a flashing red is another way display restricting. I haven’t seen or heard it used on CSX, usually used on western or Canadian railroads.
Danny, can you please make a video explaining the aspects of dwarf signals? I have seen them display things like red over green, green over green, and yellow over yellow. can you explain those aspects?
Hey Danny, I Hate To Say This, But I Caught Q442-19 At SE Lacoochee With BNSF, NS, And UP Power, And Both The ColorLight, And The 5 Headed Dwarf Signal Have Been Replaced...
Hey I saw some signals from Tyler and I saw one that has a red light on the top and another one on the bottom and was blinking so what does that mean when both signals are red and the other one that’s blinking?
Hi Danny I’m from New York and the csx signal by my house is very different. It’s a three track signal and it goes over the track. The track up ahead then goes to a two lane track just up ahead idk how to read it they put it in about a month ago brand new. Can we get an update video on there newer signals please?
Newer signals are covered. There are a couple different ways CSX employs signals (such as former Southern territory versus former Conrail territory, for example) but the new and old work the same way, even if the signals look different.
Road Slug Lunatic Broski No. Tropicana traffic has been folded into intermodal runs. But they all run through Folkston Georgia. Q140 carries a majority of the tropicana traffic to Greenville New Jersey. the southbound Q141 carries empties back to Jacksonville. I believe Q142 also carries Tropicana traffic to Ohio but that may have been changed.
In Winnipeg, MB, there is a diamond between a CN Spur and GWWD which uses dwarf signals. The GWWD always has Restricting (Yellow) in both directions across the diamond, and only goes red if GWWD is in between the signals (goes right back to yellow once they exit), or if the CN crews make their signals Restricting (Yellow) to go across, making it a semi-automatic, absolute signal across a diamond. th-cam.com/video/pbxMSmQV5v4/w-d-xo.html
The old ones are still at Lee and all along the old Seaboard Tallahassee Sub, CSX sold that line in 2019. I think they've been upgraded everywhere else in Florida.
can anyone tell me what a typical 3 light dwarf would show for a Signaled siding I.e Bonded would both red and green light up for a medium clear coming out of the siding?
Totally depends on the track setup at that particular siding. If the switch is fast enough and there's no reason to slow down ahead then yes, the dwarf could show a Medium Clear out of the siding. As I said, there's no rule for what a signal displays. It depends on track conditions at that individual place.
Distant Signal I have up here in Wisconsin. Up here, our advance approaches are flashing yellows and our double yellows are approach-diverging. Have you ever seen a medium approach slow or an approach restricting on the CSX lines down by you?
Great informative video. BUT, I don't understand the S line practice of putting both signals on the right side of the ROW. There is no way to see your signal if you are on the left track and another train is on the right track! Sounds really dangerous especially with the advent of doublestack cars.
Side-By-Side signals on double track was a Seaboard practice. I agree that it seems easy to confuse, but they made it work. When new signals go up in Seaboard double track territory (and there really wasn't much of it) CSX is installing them on the outside of each track, ACL-style.
For years, I have been trying to understand signals. Can't believe I'm just now finding your channel. Thank you!
Thanks! Glad you found us.
Thanks for posting all 6 of these videos, I work for a light rail company but, I always pass freight signals and you have answered the questions that have puzzled my mind for over a year. Thanks again.
These are great videos. I've watched those posted by the FRA and they are SO dry and confusing. I go away scratching my head over what they're talking about. Plus they show only paper diagrams. It's SO much better to see the signals and trains as you show them. Makes learning a great deal easier.
Danny,
Thanks for the info on dwarf signals. I was always curious about them and their placement. You cleared that up when you said restricted speed, restricted line of sight and ease of maintenance. Keep those videos coming.
Your Video’s are great!!!! I am a model railroader and I love how you explain the real operations of real railroad!!! Thank you so much!!!!
I did wonder how the Teco trolley diamond was regulated. Restricted slow and relatively short, light traffic on the main, this makes sense. Thanks Danny
It still doesn't matter how many times I've watched your tutorial on how to read CSX signals they are still fascinating. Thanks again!
Thank you for this series. You've made this region of signals easier to understand.
Really enjoyed this series, thanks Mr H.
Can't thank you enough Sir and was excited when this popped up this evening in my messenger on the iPad...
Nice to see you posted more on reading CSX signals.
Danny, another great video from you! In addition to the fact that you have a lot of knowledge about signaling, there is something about your narration that is very engaging. It keeps my interest and I find I want to view more of your videos.
Dan, I just finished your 6 part "Course on CSX signals". I found it fascinating and most educational. Thank you for your efforts. Now, I must do it several more times for everything to "sink in".
Fantastic series, clear knowledge and great explanation by Danny. Some train crews don't know as much. Good job sir
I don't live in Florida, but your videos were very helpful. Here in Nevada we have very similar signals
Wonderful series, Mr Harman. Thanks.
Nice video, Danny! I'm looking forward to seeing your Folkston vids, too!
Great video as usual! Your videos are always SO interesting!
Keep up the good work!
I'm more educated about Florida signalling thanks to this. Our signalling around Southeast Texas is pretty easy to learn compared to Florida. We do have one line that is ABS track warrant controlled and that is the Lufkin Sub or Rabbit line, an ex SP dark territory subdivision changed to ABS track warrant control due to a major headon collision a few years back that killed the crew of a southbound that crashed into a parked rock train because the crew of the rock train failed to properly lock the switch since dark territory was totally dependent on proper crew procedures.
Love all this track signal information! Thanks Danny.
I'm so glad these videos are finally back!!! Yay!!! :-)
Doll arms and side-by-side signals were employed back in the day when putting signals to the left of the track was illegal. The common practice at the ends of sidings was to use a high signal for the main track and a dwarf for the siding. When the main track was to the left, then the doll arm would be needed.
Great explanations of the CSX signals, Danny! Wish they were universal.
NECR has a doll arm signal on the Palmer Sub in North Walpole NH and the blue light still works
OWEN!!! Hear any CLICK CLICK BEEPS recently??? ANY ROXB or SWAN?
I'm always amazed at how old some signals are and they just keep on workin'!
Built to LAST!
Excellent Video, as always Danny!
Hi Dany. Just to clear up the dwarf at Lacoochee.The lights below the red "second head" are yellow and green. This allows the dwarf to display MEDIUM clear and approach instead of slow. The top head is an oddity, and it displays what may be the most rare indication on the entire CSX system. See, the top head has a yellow light. This would allow it to display approach as well as approach medium/limited, but because it is a medium speed route this does not work. There is no color light dwarf indication for Medium Approach Medium, so only 1 option remains. Yellow over yellow, which on a dwarf is MEDIUM Advance Approach. In other words, Medium speed through the switch, preparing to stop 2 signals away. Hope I cleared that up for you, I just figured it out myself now.
I guess this is an example of a location requirement signal based on what is up ahead and what aspects they want displayed at this particular switch even though the tracks are converging instead of diverging. On the right of the main, they have a 3 over 2 signal where normally, to me, it should be just a single head 3-position light if the dwarf governs the left track, but the dwarf has 5 lights as well.
Great Video as Usual Danny . :)
I like the expanded metal shields on dwarf signals.
Thanks so much for your efforts.
Robert
Great series well done ....
Outstanding Danny!
I've been trying to get my head around American railway signalling for ages. There are many different speed and route signalling systems here in Europe but they have a fundamental principle in common: never pass a red light. Now you know why I've been confused all along. Having watched these few videos I think I get it now. Although I am still not sure if there is a way to indicate restricted speed at the next signal. Also how shunting movements are signalled.
our saying in my territory is,
if its low its slow
Where are the dispatchers ?
Up here in Michigan, we don't have the train traffic you guys have. My son and I have figured out the signals but have never seen yellow lights on the track at all, only red and green.
very interesting learned something new everyday. cool.
Sadddd my Dinsmore dwarf is gone! :(
They redid all of Dinsmore faster than I could say STOP
Does CSX have any high and wide detectors in Florida or are those mostly found in the hills and mountains?
I enjoyed that very much thx :)
looks like a broken rail on the rail across from the derail. good view at 1:30
I'm looking, but I'm not seeing it. Or more accurately I'm seeing several things that could be it. Can you explain in more detail?
Good stuff Danny, thanks for that! :)
Danny, i’m curious to know if you’ve ever done any rail fanning right before a hurricane? That must be a very busy time? I’m assuming all companies (Amtrak included) are trying to get all of their equipment out of the area?
1:41 ... hmm, that sun hood isn't really doing the business, there, is it?
Cause the angle ist too low, that's why. In driver's perspective everything musst be fine in my eyes.
Thats the first dwarf signal I've seen with a darth vader style hood.
One thing I'm surprised you didn't mention in these six videos on reading signals is the rule about signal ambiguity or malfunction. Basically the rule is that in the event of any malfunction of a signal, or if somehow a signal was displaying mixed messages (not very likely in modern systems), it is to be interpreted as the most restrictive signal that post is capable of producing. In most instances that would be stop, but in others it might be approach slow or medium. This interpretation is in effect until a train dispatcher overrides it, the train clears that block, or the signal is repaired.
You're right. I just covered these these signal aspects and indications in no particular order and I even missed a couple of them. I didn't really delve into the rules too much.
*might be _Stop and Proceed_ or _Restricted Proceed_ or _Restricting._
White is Restricting and is only found on absolute signals. Red on a signal with a P, G, or mile plate is Restricted proceed and is only found on those signals (Sometimes called Intermediates). If a signal is showing an improper signal indication, there is several rules about that but most common is to stop with good train handling unless situation requires an emergency application and call the dispatcher.
as always love the vids danny
nice video u make it to rail watch this year.
Great videos! Would these signal types also be used in the New York City subway system? I have noticed similar lighting.
Nah, subway signals work differently.
danny, at the SB Lee, there is an S on the bottom of the side signal. what does that mean?
I’ve seen many dwarf signals that display flashing red. I’m curious as to what a flashing red is?
Andrew Burlin, a flashing red is another way display restricting. I haven’t seen or heard it used on CSX, usually used on western or Canadian railroads.
Great video as always!
+tommy4trains Go to bed.
MTStudios No
+MTStudios What are you telling him to go to bed for? You're not his dad!
Southeastern Railfan Productions Its an inside joke. Don't worry.
Oh.
On a three head signal does Red, yellow and green on the bottom equal medium approach medium? Green light not flashing.
Have you seen a yellow red, then green means approach slow?
Thanks I'm making a model railroad in minecraft and these videos are pretty helpful.
Danny, can you please make a video explaining the aspects of dwarf signals? I have seen them display things like red over green, green over green, and yellow over yellow. can you explain those aspects?
Thanks Danny!
I like this video
Hey Danny, I Hate To Say This, But I Caught Q442-19 At SE Lacoochee With BNSF, NS, And UP Power, And Both The ColorLight, And The 5 Headed Dwarf Signal Have Been Replaced...
Good video and very good explaining but it's so dang confusing the BNSF and UP are so much easier to understand
Great video!
did they really put a diner back on 91?!
Nice video!
Hey I saw some signals from Tyler and I saw one that has a red light on the top and another one on the bottom and was blinking so what does that mean when both signals are red and the other one that’s blinking?
Hi Danny I’m from New York and the csx signal by my house is very different. It’s a three track signal and it goes over the track. The track up ahead then goes to a two lane track just up ahead idk how to read it they put it in about a month ago brand new. Can we get an update video on there newer signals please?
Newer signals are covered.
There are a couple different ways CSX employs signals (such as former Southern territory versus former Conrail territory, for example) but the new and old work the same way, even if the signals look different.
hey Danny Harmon does the CSX Tropicana juice train still run as a single train and does it run through folkston Georgia
Road Slug Lunatic Broski No. Tropicana traffic has been folded into intermodal runs. But they all run through Folkston Georgia. Q140 carries a majority of the tropicana traffic to Greenville New Jersey. the southbound Q141 carries empties back to Jacksonville. I believe Q142 also carries Tropicana traffic to Ohio but that may have been changed.
In Winnipeg, MB, there is a diamond between a CN Spur and GWWD which uses dwarf signals. The GWWD always has Restricting (Yellow) in both directions across the diamond, and only goes red if GWWD is in between the signals (goes right back to yellow once they exit), or if the CN crews make their signals Restricting (Yellow) to go across, making it a semi-automatic, absolute signal across a diamond.
th-cam.com/video/pbxMSmQV5v4/w-d-xo.html
Are those us&s signal still there in 2022, because I want to to go to Lee city to see them
The old ones are still at Lee and all along the old Seaboard Tallahassee Sub, CSX sold that line in 2019. I think they've been upgraded everywhere else in Florida.
@@distantsignal if Csx sold that line, who is utilizing them?
Is joe oats still around, I I met him sometime ago, a wonderful human being.
can anyone tell me what a typical 3 light dwarf would show for a Signaled siding I.e Bonded would both red and green light up for a medium clear coming out of the siding?
Totally depends on the track setup at that particular siding. If the switch is fast enough and there's no reason to slow down ahead then yes, the dwarf could show a Medium Clear out of the siding. As I said, there's no rule for what a signal displays. It depends on track conditions at that individual place.
Dwarf, ground signal or pot signal. Any of the three are correct.
Never heard of Pot Signal
Distant Signal I have up here in Wisconsin. Up here, our advance approaches are flashing yellows and our double yellows are approach-diverging. Have you ever seen a medium approach slow or an approach restricting on the CSX lines down by you?
By the way. I love your signal videos. I’ve learned a lot about speed signaling because of them. Up here in Wisconsin, we have route signaling.
Great informative video. BUT, I don't understand the S line practice of putting both signals on the right side of the ROW. There is no way to see your signal if you are on the left track and another train is on the right track! Sounds really dangerous especially with the advent of doublestack cars.
Side-By-Side signals on double track was a Seaboard practice. I agree that it seems easy to confuse, but they made it work. When new signals go up in Seaboard double track territory (and there really wasn't much of it) CSX is installing them on the outside of each track, ACL-style.
Distant Signal There's at least one side by side Seaboard style signal setup on the Florida S Line. I need to try to find it for you.
There is one at the Route 42 grade crossing.
what dose a yellow over green mean
signal master approach medium
So if You need to remember all the different signals to become an engineer, consider something easier like a medical phd maybe.
LOL!
Nice train s
I 'm glad we;re not having a TEST
Hi😂
Why did you not talk about The New Amtrak Baggage Car on Amtrak 91 ?
like this video keep them coming
Excellent explanations but after 6 videos in a row i'm braindead. and some of doesn't cross to aviation so that made my brain hurt more.
I like to see more how to read csx signals like 1 to 5 and more
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I cannot find Part 5
Lol 420th like