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Friction Drive - Narrow Gauge
Description:
Introducing Narrow Gauge for Friction Drive Systems
Designed for Class 4 and 5 trucks (15,000–19,500 GVW), the Narrow-Gauge Friction Drive System features 33 Flexiride® Rail Gear at the front and a rear-mounted Friction Drive Rail Gear. Ideal for trucks like the Ford F-450 or Ford F-550, which typically have a wheelbase of 193.3", this setup offers sufficient space to accommodate the necessary reversing transmission for rail operation.
In this Friction Drive system, the truck must be driven in reverse to move forward on the rails. Since standard reverse speeds are slow, a reversing transmission is required to allow the truck to travel at normal speeds. It's important to note that a midship fuel tank cannot be used alongside the reversing transmission due to limited space. Additionally, tire upgrades from 225/50R19.5 to 255/70R22.5 high-traction tires are necessary to create adequate space for the rear Friction Drive system beneath the fuel tank.
Advanced Suspension & Braking Systems
The 33 FlexiRide® Suspension automatically adjusts to varying rail track conditions, providing a smooth and stable ride. The front rail gear is mounted using a specialized kit that seamlessly integrates with the truck’s frame, offering exceptional flexibility. Our patented mounting system allows for easy vertical and horizontal adjustments, ensuring precise alignment and load distribution.
The 33 Hydraulic Cobra Rail Brakes work in conjunction with the truck’s foot brake, providing additional stopping power without causing rail wheel slippage, which helps prevent flat spots on the rail wheels.
Simplified Component Integration
Our rail gear system includes an accessory mounting system that allows for straightforward installation of hydraulic and electrical components, which connect seamlessly with our pre-engineered wiring harness. A handheld remote control the up/down deployment of the rail gear, and a pre-engineered hydraulic hose kit ensures easy installation.
The integrated wiring harness includes FRA-compliant lighting and alarms that activate automatically when the rail gear is deployed. This setup features front brake lights, rear headlights, and deactivation of the standard road backup alarm. For enhanced safety, a 3-5 second direction-change alarm alerts those nearby before the truck moves.
Optional Rail Shunt Integration
Our optional cartridge-style Rail Shunts can be easily integrated into Mitchell Rail Gear systems. Controlled via a switch on the front rail gear, these shunts activate or deactivate track signals. When engaged, they create a direct connection between the rail wheels, triggering crossing lights and gates. Installation is made easy, as the shunts connect directly into the Mitchell wiring harness without the need for additional wiring.
User-Friendly Installation
Mitchell Rail Gear systems are designed for hassle-free installation by any mechanic, eliminating the need for customization. This significantly reduces labor requirements, minimizes downtime, and delivers substantial cost savings.
Mitchell Product Support
Mitchell Systems feature standardized components and placement, making servicing easier and more efficient. By minimizing the need for installer customization, vehicle owners benefit from:
- Simplified servicing.
- Easy parts replacement.
- The ability to transfer rail gear to newer trucks with minimal cost.
FAQ
Q1. What is a narrow-gauge friction-drive rail gear system?
It is a friction-drive rail gear configuration designed for compatible trucks operating on narrow-gauge railroad tracks.
Q2. What trucks are the narrow-gauge friction-drive systems designed for?
The system is designed for Class 4 and 5 trucks with a GVW of 15,000-19,500 pounds, including applications such as Ford F-450 and F-550 trucks.
Q3. How does the friction-drive system move the truck on rail?
The truck is driven in reverse to move forward on the rails, using a reversing transmission to provide appropriate operating speeds.
Q4. Are special tires required for the narrow-gauge friction-drive system?
The product information specifies upgrading from 225/50R19.5 tires to 255/70R22.5 high-traction tires for the application described.
Q5. What suspension system does the narrow-gauge system use?
The system uses 33 FlexiRide suspension, which is designed to adjust to varying railroad track conditions.
Q6. Does the system include rail braking?
Yes. The system uses 33 Hydraulic Cobra Rail Brakes in conjunction with the truck's foot brake.
Q7. Does the narrow-gauge system include electrical and hydraulic integration?
Yes. The system includes an accessory mounting system, pre-engineered wiring harness, hydraulic hose kit, and rail gear controls.
Q8. Are rail shunts available?
Yes. Optional cartridge-style Rail Shunts can be integrated into compatible Mitchell Rail Gear systems.
Q9. What are the maintenance benefits of the Mitchell system?
The system uses standardized components and placement to simplify servicing, replacement of parts, and potential transfer of rail gear to newer trucks.