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Maybe Red Line drivers need tire gauges
By adamg on Sat, 02/18/2012 - 4:07pm
Mind the step
Boston to a T reports this odd situation on the Red Line at Park Street, where riders had to step down into the cars.
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Comments
Considering..
Considering we're in the US and not France or Quebec (which use rubber), the tires on the red line are steel.
I did notice this is Pullman Car (from 1969-1970). At the time they were built, there was no ADA requirements so the car to platform being level wasn't required.
Plus add some wear on the tires too (like MAYBE a 1/2") and how many stations have been updated since 1969, its not surprising that this has happened. I'm sure if this was a 1987 Bombardier Car, it would almost level.
(I'm sure I'm partially wrong, so any rail fans wanna correct me)
Subway cars have air
Subway cars have air suspension, inflated air bags are used to smooth the ride and keep the floor height level no matter how much weight is placed on the bags. When there is a crowded train and people get off at a major stop (reducing the pressure on the air bags) the leveling valves should control the pressure to maintain the same floor height. If there is a problem with the air bag, or the valves, or the air compressor, then the car floor could be riding too high or too low. Its not a problem with the wheels.
Seems about right
I was on the Red Line for New Years, and the train was so packed with people it collapsed and wedged against the platform. They had to force everybody out and isolate the car. I remember a long walk through Cambridge to find a bus that night.
I feel like this is a service
I feel like this is a service cut more of us can live with.