Pilot Truck

Pilot trucks have several functions which increase the locomotive's speed. The pilot truck increases the wheelbase length and stabilizes the forward balance, to …

• Lead the driving wheels more smoothly into and out of curves, allowing faster speeds with fewer derailments.
• Reduce side-to-side jerking as the boiler's inertia tries to divert the locomotive's direction to the outside of the curve.
• Carry part of the engine's weight, including the smoke box and cylinders. Surprisingly, locomotive adhesion is enhanced by placing less weight on each individual driving wheel.

Quick facts
Pony or bogie
First use in England
First use in United States
Enhanced tracking