Maybe a blade for a dwarf signal?? Maybe something similar to this: http://www.frisco.org/vb/showthread.php?304-Trackside-Details&highlight=semaphore (Scroll down to #14). Tom
It appears to be a belt/chain guard from a piece of MOW equipment. I don't believe that it is a banner-type TO board; the shape is wrong.
It does look a bit like some of the train order blades I've seen on other Leaky Roof line depots (Harrisonville, etc.), of the kind that were perpendicular boards mounted on a rod attached to the operator's bay. But, it's simply my best guest. Is that one of the Scotch-Lite reflective stickers on it? Best Regards,
Well the sticker is 3-M and the color is Yellow so I would date it to the late 60's or 70's. Those appear to be holes like a chain link. It would help to know how thick the metal is, and if it is steel or aluminum. Most likely it is from a MOW machine of some type. Bad thing is, I have seen about every kind and it does not look familiar. Bill Jackson
It is metal about 1/8" thick, and I am certain the Frisco Coonskin was added, I think you are correct, that it is a chain saw guard off of MOW equipment. Thanks for the replies.
It'd help matters if I looked more carefully at the photos before posting. With a closer look, it's certainly not a uniform shape. Best Regards,
The shape is not uniform as would be a blade from a switchstand or train order board; it is tapered which makes me jump on board with Karl and Bill. I think it is a guard for a chain or belt drive. The Scotchlite decal is from the 70's.
After studing the item for a day, I think it is a belt drive guard off of something, perhaps an electirc motor driven air compresssor? I am certain the coonskin is an added stricker.
Second time I have seen this on this site. Ramapo is a brand name like Coke or Pepsi. The 36H and36D was made by Racor. They were used for the mainline. They had a hole so they could be locked. Ramapo is an older brand used by some railroads. They might have been used on the Frisco, I do not remember seeing one. Maybe back in the 40's. Not sure. Racor 40 was for the yard. That's right, no lock Automatic Safety was for the yard, it could be run through without damage. That is all for now, there are too many types to list here. Bill Jackson
Ramapo Ajax Div American Brake Shoe Co., aka, Ramapo Ajax Corporation, aka, RACOR. Apologies for the confusion.
It's a terminology issue. I have always heard them called Racors The older style with the hole in the handle are generally called Ramapo by RR people. Both made by the same companys at different times. Bill Jackson
