A heavy steel plate attached by a hinge to the rear of a steam locomotive cab deck. It rests over the gap between the engine and the tender, providing a continuous floor for the engine crew to stand on while firing and operating. It slides back and forth over the tender deck as the engine navigates curves.
Heard on the job
Watch your step on the fall plate, she bounces pretty hard over these yard switches.
Insider tip
Older crews often call this the apron, and keeping it clear of spilled coal is a basic safety rule for the fireman.
Also heard as
- apron
- deck plate