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What is a handcar and what were they used for?
A handcar, also known as a pump trolley or a pump car, is a small manually-powered railroad vehicle. It consists of a platform mounted on two, three or four wheels, with a handle or lever mechanism for propulsion. Handcars were commonly used in the late 19th and early 20th centuries for maintenance and inspection purposes on railways.
Handcars were primarily used by railway workers to travel along the tracks to inspect and repair the railroad infrastructure. They were also used for transportation of small tools, equipment, and supplies. The workers would pump the handle up and down, which would drive the wheels and propel the handcar forward. The speed and direction of the handcar could be controlled by the workers operating it.
Handcars were particularly useful in areas where the terrain was not suitable for larger maintenance vehicles or where access was limited. They allowed workers to quickly and efficiently travel along the tracks to inspect for any damage, loose bolts, or other issues that could affect the safe operation of the railway.
In addition to their practical use, handcars also had a social aspect. They were sometimes used by railway employees for recreational purposes, such as races or leisurely rides along the tracks during breaks.
Handcars have become less common with the advent of more advanced maintenance vehicles and technologies. However, they still hold a nostalgic appeal and can be found in museums or used by railway enthusiasts for historical re-enactments.
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