Handrail? Model Railroader cover

[jasonelki]

Ok, this might not be the best section to put this in, but here goes.

On the cover of the Dec. 2010 MR it shows a PRR loco with what looks like a handrail running essentially the length of the engine, is that a handrail or something else? Some of the locos pictured in the April 2010 issue, page 58 have them on one side as well, what the heck are these things, and what is their purpose?

Thanks, Jason

 

[Graham Line]

On the top of the locomotive, right? It's an antenna for an early train phone system that was pretty much exclusive to the Pennsylvania. Radio improvements made it obsolete within a decade or so.

 

[jasonelki]

On the top of the locomotive, right? It's an antenna for an early train phone system that was pretty much exclusive to the Pennsylvania. Radio improvements made it obsolete within a decade or so.

Yup, up on top. And yes, come to think of it, the 2 photos I mentioned both feature PRR locos. Interesting.

Thanks!

 

[ARLawrence]

you have to give rod stewart props for his awsome layout. I love the PRR! a train phone system it is!