When operating through turnout or disturbed track with train's air brakes released, what is the maximum dynamic brake handle position allowed until half the train has passed the restricted area?

When operating through a turnout or disturbed track with the train's air brakes released, the guidelines for dynamic brake operation are crucial for safety and effective train handling. The maximum dynamic brake handle position allowed until half the train has passed through the restricted area is four.

This position is established based on the need to maintain control over the train's speed while navigating potentially hazardous track conditions. At a dynamic brake handle position of four, the brakes provide a substantial amount of retarding force without risking excessive speed reduction or instability, which could lead to a loss of traction or a jerking motion as the train interacts with the switching track or disturbed surface.

Positions higher than four might provide too much braking force, potentially causing complications, especially in transitions through turnouts or during deviations from normal track alignments. Consequently, maintaining this limit allows for effective handling of the train while ensuring a manageable level of speed control and traction as it navigates through the critical restricted area.