Metrail Test Track Photo Essay
page two of three

We climbed up to the roof of a nearby building to get this picture of one end of the test track. The guideway is steel, which was used because it was possible to build the test track quickly. When a transit system is built using Metrail, the guideway can be built using pre-stressed concrete or steel.

Here's David being being escorted by our host, Gordon Dixon, Director for Regional Operations for Frazer-Nash. Despite having a little fun here with David, Gordon went way beyond the call of duty hosting us on our visit to Malaysia. We are forever in debt to him for two visits to the Nilai facility, a tour of Putra Jaya, Malaysia's new capitol, and a wonderful dinner to celebrate David's 50th birthday. David was treated to a monorailist's dream on his actual 50th birthday by getting to drive the Metrail train around the entire circuit. Here we are walking out to the opposite end of the track loop to take some pictures and video.

Along our walk we were able to inspect the steel columns that support the test track. Side bracing like this would be unneccesary on an urban application of Metrail. Note the lack of any electrical hardware, which cuts down on time required to build a guideway.

At the far end of the loop is the highest portion of the track, and a great spot for picture taking.

Gordon communicated to the technicians to bring the train around and we got something we don't normally get while documenting monorails for video, a train on demand! In fact, they even backed the train up so we could get a second shot.

Here's the same high point of the track, as seen from the roof top. NEXT>>>

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