Consist
The group of locomotives or cars that make up a train. Railfans also use the word when discussing the locomotive lineup.
Siding
A track connected to the main line that allows trains to meet, pass, or temporarily clear the main track.
Yard
A group of tracks used to sort, assemble, inspect, store, or service railroad cars and locomotives.
Distributed Power
Locomotives placed away from the lead end of a train and controlled from the lead locomotive to improve train handling.
Dynamic Braking
A system that uses traction motors as generators to help slow a locomotive or train without relying only on friction brakes.
Head End
The front of a train, especially the locomotive end.
Rear End
The back of the train, historically associated with the caboose and today often with an end-of-train device.
Interchange
The transfer of railroad cars or traffic between two railroads.
Keep exploring
Use Ask the Conductor for another railroad question.
Ask the Conductor