What are Spotter Buttons, please?

[ex-railwayman]

I noticed these in both the GP38-2 and the SD40-2 cabs, but, haven't got a clue as to what they are for, would one of you American experts please explain.

Cheerz. ex-railwayman.

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[AlcoFan]

They utilize battery power to slowly move the engine. Helpful if the unit is in the shop and the engine isn't started.

[BNSFdude]

They should also never be used when the engine isn't isolated.
Honestly I was pretty surprised they took the time to model the spotter feature, but didn't model the proper actuating button on the C44AC.

[DaveDewhurst]

So if Im using the spotter buttons on a loco with its engine turned off, I shouldn't get any exhaust smoke?
I just tried it and I thought smoke appearing was a bit odd

Dave

[BNSFdude]

So if Im using the spotter buttons on a loco with its engine turned off, I shouldn't get any exhaust smoke?
I just tried it and I thought smoke appearing was a bit odd

Dave

That is strange. As explained the spotter uses the 74VDC batteries to boost the locomotive in either direction for in shop movement only. These are not to be used outside of a shop environment and by mechanical forces only.

Mainly because they don't teach TEY employees how to use them, nor is there any practical application to use them in service.

[JerryC]

So basically it's like running the headlights in your car off of batteries, except in this case the juice is flowing to the traction motors to move the locomotive short distances. Bet it runs the batteries down quick!

I'm glad someone took the time to ask and answer this question. The C39-8 has a sticker on the control panel that reads "Equipped with spotter control". Now I gotta put it in there.

[BNSFdude]

The isolation switch should have a position called "Jog."

The switch has to be put there for the 'jog' or 'spotter' feature to work.

[reef75]

Thought they might be for train length markers. I'll stop pressing them then

[OldProf]

Thought they might be for train length markers. I'll stop pressing them then

In at least one of the locos there is a "train length" button below-right of the speedometer that has a clickable mouse hotspot, but it doesn't seem to do anything except light up briefly.

[reef75]

Its the speed limit changes that throw me while not using the HUD. In sim, speed limit changes when the final wagon passes the speed board. Is this how it is in reality ? If so knowing when the back of a mile long train passes is handy to know. Especially when the back has just reached a speed change and the front has already gone past the next speed change. I tried looking head out the window back at the train but could not see that far

stephen