When handling Plate F box cars, high-sided gondolas, open top hoppers, or covered hoppers, avoid operation at what speeds?

When handling Plate F box cars, high-sided gondolas, open top hoppers, or covered hoppers, avoid operation at what speeds?

• A. Between 14 and 21 MPH.
• B. Above 50 MPH.
• C. Below 5 MPH.
• D. Between 30 and 40 MPH.

Answer: (A)

Tall, top-heavy cars like Plate F box cars, high-sided gondolas, open-top hoppers, and covered hoppers are more prone to lateral sway and instability when moved. The interaction of height, track irregularities, wind, and coupler slack can create oscillations that, in a certain mid-range of speeds, are more likely to build up and lead to a derailment or rollover, especially around curves or switches. That’s why the guideline flags a speed range around 14–21 mph as a zone to avoid. Keeping speeds either below or above that band helps reduce the chance of dangerous oscillations in these car types.

Tall, top-heavy cars like Plate F box cars, high-sided gondolas, open-top hoppers, and covered hoppers are more prone to lateral sway and instability when moved. The interaction of height, track irregularities, wind, and coupler slack can create oscillations that, in a certain mid-range of speeds, are more likely to build up and lead to a derailment or rollover, especially around curves or switches. That’s why the guideline flags a speed range around 14–21 mph as a zone to avoid. Keeping speeds either below or above that band helps reduce the chance of dangerous oscillations in these car types.