The plan is that just in case
the automatic rail control system fails because of a Y2K problem, that the
trains can still run using the old manual switch method. But we have
been told by the Y2K doomsdayers that the rail switches cannot be manually
operated. Well, I decided to check it out first hand. I found that
the switches on two different rail systems still have a manual override
lever. We have been misled again.
Here is a picture of a rail switch on the FEC track just south of
Commercial Blvd at Dixie Highway.
Here is a closeup of the same switch. Notice the giant manual lever
that can be operated if you have a key to the lock (or a blowtorch).
Below is a picture of a rail switch on the CSX track just north of
Sistrunk at I-95.
A closer look and you can see the switch mechanism on the left of
the tracks.
The closeup of the CSX switch reveals the same - a manual override lever.
Moral of the story: only believe first-hand information.
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