Abstract: In accordance with the present invention a locking member is integrally connected to a transversely extending operating shaft. A handle is preferably provided on at least one end of the operating shaft. A locking lug and a tripping element are integrally connected to a movable gravity gate. In closed position the locking member has a hook portion which engages the locking lug. The locking member is movable to a generally vertical position by rotation of the operating shaft. As the gate is moved toward open position the tripping element engages the locking member and pivots the locking member to a generally horizontal position. As the gate is further opened, gravity urges the locking member into a further rotation position in which a depending safety tip on the locking member is below a fixed stop located adjacent the outlet wall with the locking member generally horizontal and not resting on the gate.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, a hand brake assembly (300) is mounted adjacent one end of a first car or articulated unit (303). A force dividing assembly (306) is provided on the first car, which divides the applied hand brake into a first (313) and second (321) hand brake linkages. The first hand brake linkage (313) is connected to a first air brake linkage (315) located on the first car. Preferably a portion of the first air brake linkage is located within an air brake cylinder (318). When the hand brake is applied, the first hand brake linkage (313) is effective to apply the brakes on the first car or unit through the first air brake linkage. The second hand brake linkage (321) extends from one car or unit to a second adjacent car or unit (333).

Abstract: For application to railway cars having limited available transverse space for the brake system, a system of vertically extending brake levers and longitudinally extending brake rods is used to apply the air brake force to wheels located at opposite ends of the car.