Certification Examination Practice

Illinois Rail Equipment Technician Certification Examination Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary function of a locomotive traction motor?
• To generate electricity for the cab
• To convert electrical energy into mechanical motion
• To operate the air brake system
• To power the signal system
• To convert electrical energy into mechanical motion

Rationale: The traction motor receives electrical power and converts

it into mechanical motion to drive the locomotive’s wheels.

• Which type of brake system is commonly used on U.S. freight trains?
• Vacuum brake 1 / 4

• Air brake
• Hydraulic brake
• Electromagnetic brake
• Air brake

Rationale: Most U.S. freight trains use the automatic air brake

system developed by George Westinghouse.

• What component regulates the voltage output of a locomotive’s

alternator?

• Rectifier
• Inverter
• Voltage regulator
• Transformer
• Voltage regulator

Rationale: The voltage regulator ensures the alternator produces the

correct voltage regardless of engine speed.

• When inspecting a railcar, a technician notices a worn wheel flange.

What is the primary safety concern?

• Reduced braking efficiency
• Increased risk of derailment
• Slower acceleration
• Electrical shorts
• Increased risk of derailment 2 / 4

Rationale: Worn flanges can cause the wheels to lose proper

guidance on the rails, leading to derailment.

• What is the purpose of a diesel engine governor in a locomotive?
• To cool the engine
• To maintain constant engine speed under varying loads
• To lubricate moving parts
• To filter fuel
• To maintain constant engine speed under varying loads

Rationale: The governor adjusts fuel delivery to maintain engine

speed despite load changes.

• Which tool is essential for measuring rail wear and alignment?
• Torque wrench
• Caliper
• Rail gauge
• Hydrometer
• Rail gauge

Rationale: Rail gauges measure the distance between rails and

detect alignment and wear issues.

7. A short circuit in a locomotive traction motor can cause:

• Loss of signal lights
• Wheel slippage or motor damage
• Brake system failure
• Increased fuel efficiency 3 / 4

• Wheel slippage or motor damage

Rationale: Short circuits disrupt current flow and can overheat or

damage the motor, causing operational issues.

• What is the main purpose of a locomotive sand system?
• Lubricate the wheels
• Increase traction on rails
• Signal approaching trains
• Power auxiliary systems
• Increase traction on rails

Rationale: Sand is applied to the rail in front of the wheels to

improve grip during low-adhesion conditions.

• How often should railcar brake shoes typically be inspected?
• Every 50,000 miles
• At every scheduled maintenance or before use
• Once a year
• Only when braking issues occur
• At every scheduled maintenance or before use

Rationale: Frequent inspection ensures proper braking performance

and safety.

• Which component converts DC electricity from a locomotive’s

battery to AC electricity for traction motors?

• Rectifier
• Inverter
• / 4