Abstract: A rigid draft and buffing sliding sill includes cushion elements operably attached thereto for absorbing shocks generated during buff or draft operating conditions. The draft and buffing sliding sill extends lengthwise of the underframe of a railway car. At least one of the cushion elements remains inactive until the shock forces acting on the underframe exceed a predetermined magnitude.

Abstract: Stabilizing apparatus for preventing derailment of moving railway cars is provided. The apparatus includes a plurality of interconnected elongated members that overlie and are secured to a string of coupled cars. In the preferred embodiment, the elongated members are automatically connected at their ends by interengageable coupling members. The elongated members include cables that act as vibration dampers to prevent swaying and rolling motion of the cars on uneven track. The coupling members are specially configured to prevent a chain-reaction derailment of all the cars if one car derails.