A prior thread asked about photos about a specific unit, so I thought I'd start a thread with many photos. Harold
It seems that CSX has two types of remote switching platforms.... some are former locos and some are converted from freight cars. The only ones I have caught are like flat cars...
Here's the first unit I caught... # 9173 http://hhodnett.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=618096 Harold
Another view of the same unit: http://hhodnett.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=618098 Harold
Here's another unit, in the middle of a regular freight train: http://hhodnett.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=618105 Harold
They look a lot more than "like" flat cars; they are flat cars! How can they supply any power without traction motors?
I don't think they have any power... they have radio equipment to allow Remote Control operation from the gromnd by switching crews...
So they just receive the remote signals for the actual engine coupled to it. Otherwise, without the remote platform, the coupled engine is just a normal engine. In your picture, CSXT9173, the remote platform is just moving enroute in mid train and not coupled to a regular engine?
Here is unit # 9474 which has the horns mounted on the front of the platform: http://hhodnett.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=618102
Apparently, they can function as a regular freight car (in transit) OR they use the remote control to couple with ANY loco and become a remote controlled loco.
Here's another unit, showing its flexibility and mated to a lease unit! http://hhodnett.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=618104
Here's another telephoto view... It shows the end platorm with brakewheel, plus the headlights, antenna, and horms mounted on another separate pole. http://hhodnett.rrpicturearchives.net/showPicture.aspx?id=618109
Harold, on your images, it appears that the units have MU control cables only at one end. I assume this would limit their usefulness by requiring that the attached locomotive always face in the opposite direction to show headlights and ditchlights. Or else the units would have to be turned if no locomotive was available that was facing in the "correct" direction. Do you (or anybody) have any info on this?