OK, I am stupid, what is Rule 17 ???
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I have a pretty good idea but i am looking forward to an exact explanation. Good question.
Rule 17
Rule 17 is a prototype railroad rule specifying conditions for dimming lights on locomotives. Many DCC decoders support this dimming to a greater or lesser degree.
What is rule 17?
Rule 17 is actually a collection of rules that govern which lights are to be on on a locomotive at given times and to when they should be be dimmed. These rules may vary from railroad to railroad but generally follow a similar pattern. The general purpose of the rule is to make sure that the locomotive is visible, without creating undue glare for others in the area.
- Except when an engine is clear of the main and stopped, both the front (and rear if so equipped) headlights should be on.
- The light in the direction of travel should be a full brightness except:
- 1. At stations and yards where switching is being done.
- 2. When the engine is stopped close behind another train.
- 3. In non-signaled territory, when the engine is stopped on the main track waiting for an approaching train.
- 4. When approaching and passing the head end and rear end of a train on the adjacent track.
- 5. At other times to permit passing of hand signals or when the safety of employees requires.
- The opposite light should be dimmed.
So as it pertains to Lionel, when activated the headlight will dim when the engine is stopped. When the engine starts to move it cones back to full intensity.
On the cab 2 you can do this manually by pushing it either on or off or push and hold the Rule 17 on and it will say automatic and operate on it's own.
