BSA Merit Badge


Boy Scout Merit Badge Requirements - RAILROADING

  1. Do TWO of the following:

    1. Know the name and track gauge for four model railroad gauges. Show the correct way to clean and lubricate model train equipment.

    2. Draw to scale the layout of your own model railroad or one that could be built in your home. Have a point-to-point or loop with different routings. Include a turnaround, a terminal, or a yard and a siding.

    3. Alone or with others, build a model railroad layout to include ballest and scenery. Make connections from power supply to the track and accessories, if any.

    4. Build a scale model of a locomotive (with or without power) or make two cars. (Kits with extra detail may be used.)

    5. Draw scale plans and build two accessories.

  2. Do the following:

    1. Explain how real electric and diesel locomotives develop power.

    2. Identify by model or picture six different kinds of railroad cars.

    3. Show two basic signals used either by color or configuration. Explain the meaning of five whistle signals. Describe an emergency way to signal a train to stop.

  3. Do ONE of the following:

    1. Name four departments of a railroad company. Describe what each does.

    2. Name and explain ten jobs in railroading. Tell which job interests you most. Tell why.

  4. Explain six rules of safety to use aboard trains; on platforms; at crossings; and around bridges, yards, and tunnels. Explain the use and function of the "EOTD" or "FRED" now used in place of cabooses.

  5. Explain the use of a timetable by making a written plan for a trip by rail between two cities at least 500 miles apart. List the times of departure and of arrival at your destination, the number of the train, and the service you want.

  6. Do ONE of the following:

    1. Visit a railroad museum or an operating model railroad and explain what you saw.

    2. View a video showing the operation of a railroad, such as This Is My Railroad or Association of American Railroads by Pentrax.

    3. Plan and take a rail trip of at least 25 miles. Buy your own ticket. Read the timetables and footnotes correctly.

  7. Name three types of modern freight trains and explain why they are more efficient than mixed freights.

BSA Advancement ID#: 94
Pamphlet Revision Date: 1992
Source: Boy Scout Requirements Y2K, #33215C, revised 2000

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