Re: [CBQ] Proper Terminology

[John Manion <railbass@comcast.net>]

Charlie -

Keep in mind that one term we modelers use and was invented for diesel modelers is "phase."   Diesels or motors have been identified by model number, builder number, and date built.   We modelers refer to diesel models by phase, based on noticeable external features.   For example, the F3s are identified by at least four phases.   The Q CZ motors in the 9960 series are phase II, with "chicken wire" over the vents between the portholes.   The Q F3s in the 160 series are phase IV, with stainless steel intake grills and horizontal louvers between the two portholes on each side panel.   If you are buying or building a diesel model, you have to identify the phase from a prototype photo.   A roster will not give you the details you need for an accurate model.

- John Manion

  Denver, CO

On Mon, Jan 13, 2014 at 9:33 AM, Charlie Vlk <cvlk@comcast.net> wrote:

 

While Railfanning and Model Railroading is a Hobby, Railroad History is available (and the (accurate) preservation of it is one of the goals of the BRHS (not that this is that list).

 

Bill and others are correct to point out that terminology did vary between railroads and even different parts of the same line.

 

That does not, however, give carte blanche to invent terms or propagate known incorrect ones.   Over on the Passenger Car List an individual insists on calling diaphragms “pongers” and a number of people have picked up on that inexplicable made-up moniker.   Likewise some Model Railroaders like to call a 2-8-0 a “Connie”…… a term I have yet to run into in any prototype railroad literature and only see as a reference to a series of three tailed prop airliners made by Lockheed (and a Greek restaurant in Berwyn at Harlem Avenue and the CB&Q that was a favorite after-IITMR club late night hangout).

 

The apparent or possible confusion brought about by calling a Fairmont or some such MOW machine a “motor car” when the same term was applied to a Gas-Electric is something that needs to be further researched.   On the CB&Q early on distillate, gas, and diesel locomotives were referred to as “motors” so there probably is no confusion there.

 

Charlie Vlk

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