Train Stop - Reverse Direction

Reverse Direction

When trains operate in the reverse direction, they may "back trip" on train stops applying to the normal direction, which is a nuisance. This may be avoided in one of three ways:

1. In Melbourne the rear trip cock is raised, although this runs the risk of runaways from terminal stations at high elevations.
2. In Sydney, the rear trip is always lowered, and trip arms in the opposite direction are "suppressed" so that they do not engage the rear trip cock. Trip cocks on intermediate cars, if any, are always raised.
3. In New York, when the signalling system clears motion in one direction (on bi-directional track or through an interlocking), it will automatically drive the trip arms which apply to the other direction. This is necessary because trip cocks are located along the entire length of trains in New York, not just the lead car.