What’s a Railroad Speeder? 🚂 Let's Find Out! #railway #explore #train

This fascinating little vehicle you see is a railroad motorcar, often affectionately called a "speeder." Once a crucial part of daily rail operations, speeders were used for everything from track inspections to maintenance work, ensuring that railroad lines ran smoothly and safely. This specific motorcar is a part of the Durango & Silverton Railroad in Colorado, where it continues to play a role in preserving the rich history of American railroads.

But what exactly are speeders? These small, nimble vehicles were essential to railroad crews. For decades, smaller models like this one would be sent out to inspect miles of track for defects, while larger versions were used to transport teams of workers, often carrying trailers loaded with tools, spikes, and other maintenance equipment. Though they had a modest top speed of about 30 miles per hour, they earned their name "speeders" because they were significantly faster than the manually powered pump cars they replaced.

Railroad motorcars have been around since at least the late 19th century. In fact, it was reported in 1896 that the U.S. Daimler Motor Company developed a gasoline-powered inspection car capable of speeds up to 15 mph. This innovation allowed rail workers to cover long distances quickly and efficiently, drastically improving the inspection and maintenance processes.

By the 1990s, however, speeders began to be phased out. The rise of Hy-Rail vehicles—standard road vehicles equipped with retractable guide wheels that allow them to operate both on road and rail—led to the decline of speeders for most maintenance tasks. Hy-Rail vehicles, with their flexibility and convenience, have largely taken over the job once handled by these trusty motorcars.

Despite no longer being a key tool for modern railroads, speeders haven't disappeared entirely. Enthusiasts and hobbyists have kept these unique vehicles alive, restoring them and organizing special excursions. In the U.S. and Canada, groups like the North American Railcar Operators Association (NARCOA) gather to take their refurbished speeders on organized runs along old railways, keeping the history and charm of these vintage machines alive. Similar efforts are also seen in places like Australia with the Australian Society of Section Car Operators, Inc.

Speeders, also known by many other names like section cars, putt-putts, jiggers, trolleys, and draisine, have a special place in railroad history. Although they may seem slow by today’s standards, compared to the handcars they replaced, they were fast, efficient, and reliable.

This speeder, part of the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, serves as a tangible reminder of the important role these motorcars once played in keeping America's railways safe and functional. Whether used for inspection, fire watch, or track maintenance, these vehicles were critical to the operation of railroads across the country.

So next time you see a railroad motorcar, remember the vital service these little machines performed on the tracks—and how their legacy continues through the dedication of railcar enthusiasts today.

Hello! We are Joyce and Daryle,

We believe that travel is an enriching and transformative experience that has the power to improve people's lives. We believe that travel is not just about how far you go, but about adopting a curious and open-minded approach to life. We are committed to creating content that inspires and educates our audience, empowering them with the knowledge and confidence to travel and explore the world around them.

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[Mason_r]

this fellas voice sounds like he survived because the fire inside burned brighter than the fire around him

[williamdonahue]

Would love to have one. A hundred years ago, the US had a phenomenal rail network. When I was in grade school, we even took a field trip on a chartered rail car way out in rural Illinois where there was otherwise no passenger service.

[madmattish]

If you like these, you will Love❤ the movie "The Railrodder" 1965. 😊

[Allen]

Also known as Maintenance Of Way (MOW) cars.

[jet]

We use to call em Putt Putt cars because the motor made a putt sound....

[roadrailmediagroup]

What a treat to operate one of those. Used to have clubs of operators give rides during community events. That was before the bike trails came.

[paul-andrelarose]

A motor-car provides a much better way to assess the fixed plant than the "high-rail" now used.

[donald]

Seems like we all need those speeders brought back out checking are railroads to reduce this problem of De-rails that's going on quite bit, "Don't you all think So"

[PBMRR]

Its a good video and you actually did research on the topic, but unfortunately the AI voice ruins it. I miss the good old days of YouTube when everything wasn't brainrot or dangerous trends/ life hacks