We have a UPRR class CA-6 caboose at our local museum that was fitted with electrical wiring sometime after its original construction which was probably in the early 1940Â’s. But under the car we can find no evidence of an axle-driven generator (mountings, idler pulleys, etc.) or storage compartment for batteries. Short stubs of heavy wires protrude from an open conduit with no hint of where they were connected. There are plug-ins on both sides, labelled for 250 volts, which I assume are for connections to trackside power while in a yard. Can anyone provide info on how this car might have been electrified while running and/or why no indications of generator or batteries remain?

ri51425@alltel.net

Look at the recepticals on the sides of the car. Do they look like a coaxial type plug? Most railroads used a AAR standard battery charging plug that was not rated for a specific voltage only for maximum of AC and DC volts.

The batteries were most likely under a bunk in the car body. That way they were kept warm in the winter by the stove and less likely to freeze.

I seem to remember that the UP used a spicer/safety car generator that attached to the end of the axle and transfered power by a shaft to a generator hung on the side sill towards the middle of the car. Later instalations used an generator or alternater mounted on the truck frame. Where do the wires end?

Good luck

Paul

pfdx@aol.com

Thanks, Paul, for your info. The wires end near the center of the car, indicating the earlier generator placement you describe. The truck-mounted generator/alternator is the only kind I’ve seen on other cabooses, so that’s what had me baffled - no “remnants” of such on our car. I’ll do some more checking and get back to you either this way or via direct e-mail.

ri51425@alltel.net