This should be titled, Who Built What? Look at
Caption 2 and 3 — No, it is not a crane for lifting
conductors who fall off trains. It is a tool used to change
ties out in the field. This apparatus was built by Ralph
Tucker, one of our dynamite members.
Caption 2
The tie changing mechanism is shown on the
steaming bay for better clarity. One simply slips the tool
on the end of a T car. The old tie is dug out and a new
one put into place. The tongs clamp on the bottom of the
tie. Pull the handle on the top of the boom and the tie is
snug up against the bottom of the track. The springs hold
the tie tight enough so you can screw in the necessary
screws to hold the tie in place. Remove the clamps and
move the T car to next tie and do the same. Works great!
Caption 3
How did this all come about? If you ever changed a
tie in the field you will quickly know why. Try holding the
tie straight while trying to put screws in place. One hand
is holding a drill with a screwdriver bit and the other is
trying to hold the screw. The tie just goes where it wants.
Ralph just became tired of banging his forehead on
the ground from frustration. Instead of destroying his
noggin, Ralph put his noggin to work and built this
machine. Great work and well done, Ralph! Thanks for
the photos. If you want more information, call Ralph
Tucker at 727-394-8480.