Chester FAQ

Thanks Karl,

I am also trying to timetable an ECS move from Helsby P4 towards Mickle Trafford via P2.

I can set routes HY38 (P4) - HY36 (rev HY13), HY13 - HY15 (P2 back-end position), and HY16 - HY4. But the route HY15 to HY16 says "no route available". Is this correct?

Thanks
Jamie

Routes up to HY16, need the forward route set and HY16 showing off in order to set.

Hi,

One last thing for now, it might be worth clarifying in the manual that trains timetabled to set down or have activities at Chester UDG need the UDG TIPLOC in their timetable.
Using CHST platform code UDG will result in a wrong route call.

Thanks
Jamie

Hi,

For ECS trains with a class 5 TRN, they have been happily accepting Chester platform UDG as a passing location (as well as a stopping point if thru line stop).

However 3D80 from Crewe, which was timetabled to pass Chester platform DTL, gave a wrong route call "not allowed on goods lines" when sent via UDG as the DTL was occupied.

Thanks
Jamie

A bit esoteric, but the Down Goods on the Birkenhead route should be available for run-round manoeuvres and or push-backs to reverse direction. I don't think those routes have been provided for (or at least I can't figure them out).

To be precise:
1) Train from Saltney round the curve to Birkenhead Down Goods; loco uncouple and forward to clear 558 signal. Loco runs back via 555 and onto the fork, then reverses and rejoins the train.
2) Train from Saltney to the Birkenhead Down Goods. Then reverse round the curve toward Roodee Jn. Finally move ahead again to Chester station. This manoeuvre was reasonably often in years past for WCML passenger trains diverted via Chester on Sundays. Yes, a 12 coach train plus loco reversing round the chord....
3) Train from Saltney to the Birkenhead Down Goods. Then reverse to Chester station. Back forward and onward to Saltney, taking a different route from that on which the train arrived.

Help and guidance gratefully received.