CHAPTER XXVIII.
EXAMINATION FOR LOCOMOTIVE ENGINEERS.
The following is the form of questions put to firemen on one of the most prominent railroads in this country before they are admitted as competent for promotion, and the kind of answers expected from those who are considered eligible for the higher position. The form questions are not adhered to strictly, and care is taken that a candidate for promotion does not commit the answers to memory without properly understanding the subject. No fireman is promoted who does not satisfy the examiner that he understands the practical questions asked.
Q.—What are the principal duties of an engineer before attaching his engine to train?
A.—To examine the engine carefully, to see that all set-screws are in place, and rod-keys secure; that the engine is equipped with all necessary signals, firing, and hand-tools; the necessary supply of water, fuel, and stores. Also, to take a look at the flues and crown-sheet.
Q.—What is important, in carrying water in the boiler, as to height and regularity?
A.—To carry water and steam in the top gauge-cocks when working steam, and as uniformly as possible.
Q.—What is important in carrying water on grades, and approaching a summit?
A.—To carry the water sufficiently high to be sure that the front ends of the tubes are not exposed, and, in pitching over a summit, to have sufficient water to cover and protect the crown-sheet, after finding its level from the front or low end of the boiler.