The R-46 Subway Car

There are many problems with the R-46 subway car. First, it is a noisy and vibrationally-heavy train. Its electrical systems were also problematic, creating a fire hazard. Then, the MTA was delayed in receiving part of its order of 754 cars due to a strike. The MTA filed a $112.3million lawsuit against Rockwell International and Pullman standard, which sought damages of $112.3 million. According to the lawsuits, TA officials were forced into accepting subway cars that did not meet their standards.

Nevertheless, there are several good things about the R46. It has a long lifespan. It was built in 1930 and put into service in the middle of the 1940s. The cars were also equipped with fluorescent lights and included advertising areas on the ceiling. The R46 also featured air-springs, which helped reduce noise. Moreover, it did not have straphangers to prevent passengers from falling off the train. It was also fitted with air conditioning, which is another great advantage.

The R46s are expected to remain in service until the mid-2020s, when they will be replaced by the R211s. There were two versions of the R46, with one having a GE engine, the other using a Westinghouse power supply. Originally, the R46s were designed for a speed of 70 mph and were intended for the Second Avenue Subway.

Safety problems plagued the R46 as well. In late July 1979, the MTA was informed of problems with hand brake assemblies. This was a critical safety issue. Pullman Standard reported the incident to the MTA, which led to a US$80million charge against the company. A contract for spare parts worth US$1.5 million was also invalidated by the lawsuit.

In 1992, Morrison-Knudsen rebuilt the entire R46 fleet. The R46s of the newer generation were more functional and had LCD destination signs. They were also equipped with pure stainless steal. The vehicle was completely rebuilt to ensure it would work with other car types. It is expected to remain in service until at most 2015.

The R46 subway car was the first to have air-conditioning. It was a significant improvement on its predecessor and still offers the most comfortable ride for passengers. It can pass three R179 subway cars onto G line and has a greater speed and distance range. It can also run upto eleven trains an hour during peak hours, and upto 11 on shutdown days.

The N subway runs express service between 34th Street-Herald Square in Manhattan and 59th Street in Brooklyn. The W subway provides local service throughout the city. On weekends, the N is also available. The weekend daytime service makes stops between 34th Street and Canal Street, and the late night service makes all stops on the entire route, using the Montague Street Tunnel.