The MTA M-Series LIRR/MNRR EMUs: Bells or Horns on Modern Railways?

Introduction

It has often been a topic of discussion among railway enthusiasts and professionals why certain Electric Multiple Unit (EMU) trains, particularly those operated by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) on the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) and the Metro-North Railroad (MNRR), do not feature bells despite their operational use throughout the United States. This article delves into the complexities surrounding this issue and provides insights based on regulations and practical considerations.

Regulatory Framework - A Decentralized Approach

Overview of Federal Regulations

Contrary to a common misconception, the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) does not mandate the installation of bells on locomotives and trains. In the United States, the requirement for bells on trains is not a federal law but rather an FRA regulation. FRA's rule states that if a locomotive is equipped with a bell, that bell must be operable and used. However, the decision to equip a train with a bell is left to individual railroads rather than being mandated by federal law.

Practical Considerations: EMUs vs. Conventional Locomotives

It is important to note that the MTA's M-series EMUs, which operate on the LIRR and MNRR, have fundamentally different roles compared to conventional locomotives. Unlike traditional locomotives that pull passenger and freight cars, EMUs are self-propelled vehicles designed for interoperability and flexibility. As a result, their design and equipment requirements often differ significantly from those of locomotives.

Bell Implementation on Conventional Locomotives

The MTA's M-series EMUs, including those on the LIRR and MNRR, do not feature bells because they are not considered standard equipment for EMUs. However, conventional diesel locomotives and dual-mode locomotives used by the MTA do have bells as part of their standard equipment. This practice is more in line with the railroad tradition and meets the FRA's requirement of operable and functional bells.

Operational Requirements for Horns

FRA Mandates for Horns

While bells are not a requirement, it is crucial to understand that all trains, including EMUs, are required by the FRA to have operational horns. The FRA mandates that these horns must be used in certain situations, such as when trains approach public crossings, signaling bridges, tunnels, or making a turn. This provision serves to enhance overall safety on the railways by alerting pedestrians and other road users to the presence of oncoming trains.

Comparison with Bells

The primary difference between the bell and horn is the method of sound production. Bells produce a more localized sound, whereas horns can be heard over longer distances. In practice, the use of horns over bells has proven to be more effective in certain scenarios, such as when a train approaches a public crossing, making a sharp turn, or traveling through tunnels or other confined spaces.

Conclusion

The absence of bells on the MTA's M-series EMUs, specifically on the LIRR and MNRR, is a result of a decentralized regulatory approach and the unique design of EMUs. While it is true that all trains, including EMUs, are required by the FRA to have operable horns, the choice to install bells ultimately lies with the railroad operators. This approach allows for flexibility and adaptation to the diverse operational needs of different rail systems.