A high-strength steel pin or bolt that passes through the drawbar of a locomotive or car to anchor the coupling mechanism. It transfers the pulling force from the drawbar to the vehicle frame. Because it bears the entire tractive effort of the train behind it, it is subject to severe shear stress and requires regular inspection for metal fatigue.
Heard on the job
Check the drag bolt on that switcher, the drawbar has way too much lateral play.
Related terms
Drawbar
A solid metal beam or assembly that connects railcars or locomotives together to transmit pulling force.
Dragbox
A heavy structural casting at the rear of a locomotive frame that houses the coupling mechanism.
Drawgear
The complete mechanical assembly that couples railcars and absorbs pulling forces.