36 TRACK. 



The elevation of outer rail must not be continued beyond 

 the tangent point, but should decrease uniformly along the 

 easement curve from point of maximum curvature to tangent 

 point. 



To ascertain the elevation required at points on easement 

 curves, trackmen are required to use a cord of standard 

 length, the middle ordinate of which will be equal to the 

 proper elevation, as follows: 



This method is applicable to all curves, and aids in main- 

 taining true alinement, as all ordinates should be equal on 

 full centered portions of curve, and ordinates must decrease 

 uniformly on easement curves from full elevation to zero at 

 tangent point In using the cord to ascertain elevation, it 

 should be stretched and firmly held at both ends against the 

 inner face of rail on inside of curve. The middle ordinate 

 will then be equal to the required elevation, and can be meas- 

 ured by a foot rule, or by attaching a short piece of graduated 

 tape to the cord at its center. 



All track levels must be tested by the engineer or roadmas- 

 ter at the beginning of the working season, and the date of 

 Inspection recorded. Sluggish bubble tubes should be re- 

 placed. 



TIE-PLATES. 



The standard form of tie-plate will be used, with the stand- 

 ard 72-lb. rail section, in lieu of rail braces. 



Tie-plates will be used whenever necessary to prevent tie 

 cutting, generally on curves of 3 or over, depending upon 

 local conditions. The widest margin must invariably be 

 placed on the outer side of rail. 



On tangents and light curves, but two spikes will be used 

 In each plate. On sharper curves, three or four spikes will be 

 used, when necessary. In cases of unusual difficulty in main- 

 taining gage on mountain grades and sharp curves, before 

 applying tie-plates the ties may be dapped to allow a suffi- 



