Locomotive Engineer how-to

How to Control Slack on a Long Train

Rough handling damages cargo and can derail trains.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Rough handling damages cargo and can derail trains. In short: know; plan; change, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Know the train’s weight, length and car distribution.

  2. Plan throttle and brake use for the terrain.

  3. Change throttle notches gradually.

  4. Use dynamic braking to control speed on grades.

  5. Bunch or stretch slack deliberately before changes.

  6. Watch the event recorder and adjust smoothly.

Safety reminders for locomotive engineers

  • Follow hours-of-service rules and get rest
  • Call and obey every signal
  • Comply with PTC and speed restrictions
  • Use three points of contact on locomotives

Consist · Air brake test · Dynamic brake · Slack · Track warrant · Signal aspect: see the full locomotive engineer glossary.

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