A heavy metal casting mounted on the bogie of an electric locomotive or multiple unit that slides along the electrified third rail to draw traction power. It is held against the live rail by gravity or spring tension. Shoes wear down from constant friction and electrical arcing, requiring regular inspection and replacement in transit maintenance shops.
The motorman reported a loss of power, turns out a broken contact shoe snapped off on a bad joint.
A loud crack and a bright blue flash from the bogie usually means a contact shoe just hit a gap or a piece of debris on the third rail.
Also heard as
- collector shoe
- pickup shoe
Related terms
Third rail
An electrified rail running parallel to the tracks that supplies power to trains.
Electric locomotive
A locomotive that draws its propulsion power from an external electrical source.
Bogie
A wheeled chassis or framework attached under a rail vehicle to provide support, suspension, and guidance along the track.