Locomotive Electrical: Master-Slug Conversion

A four axle slug unit was re-designed to work in conjunction with one or two powered units for road service. The affected electrical circuits on the master units were examined, and modifications to those circuits were designed to coordinate with the circuitry that was designed into the slug unit. The transition sequences and motor connections were developed that would optimize the starting tractive effort of the master-slug combination, and yet enable the slug to cut out and cut in at the appropriate speeds to accomplish the desired traction needs. The inter-unit wiring connections were then designed to enable the slug to not only receive traction power from the master(s), but also to receive proper control signals for transition control, braking, and pass-through of MU signaling. Finally, an appropriate system of interlocks, disconnects, and other safety features were designed to prevent injury or damage from accidental uncoupling of the slug from the master(s) while under power.