A major upgrade at the diesel shop was completed in March. A new drop table was installed for work on truck assemblies, wheel sets and traction motors.

Assistant Chief Mechanical Officer Nate Smith and General Foreman of Special Projects and Training Rob Soltys supervised the New Jersey-area contractor who removed the old drop table, performed the structural work and set the new unit in place.

Soltys said the weeklong project was completed two days ahead of schedule and didn’t impact production.

The system is equipped with modern sensors that help with alignment and enhance efficiency.

“It’s 100% better,” said Soltys, who notes the newer model is quieter and includes additional safety features. 

The drop table is already seeing regular use as part of daily operations.