How do trains stop?

As an engineer for Union Pacific Railroad, I would be happy to explain some of the basics of train operations and braking systems. For the sake of simplicity, I will stick only to the braking systems which are used in freight service. read more

Stopping and Starting: The process of coming to a stop, or initiating movement can be rough on train handling. Often the independent brake is used after the train has slowed to around 6 mph to keep the head end bunched in to the train with air set. read more

There are three types of train stops: Trip stop - stops train trying to pass red signal; Timed train stop - stops train moving too fast; Fixed train stop - prevents any trains from passing a point; Trip stops. The trip arm is raised whenever the signal is not displaying a proceed aspect. read more

If it does not work, figure out if you have a "Cab Car" on your train. If so, go to it, and follow the instructions as if it was a locomotive. If not, proceed safely to the locomotive and enter the cab. read more