Abstract:
A lower generally pan-shaped cover for fitting around the entire bottom discharge structure of a railway hopper car, such as a discharge structure having a gravity gate and a combination rackand-pinion drive for the gravity gate. The cover seals the entire bottom outlet structure against the entrance of foreign matter including the drive means. Means mount the cover for movement between a covering position with respect to the bottom outlet and a position removed from beneath the bottom discharge outlet to permit the discharge of lading. The cover is formed of fiber glass and resin binder to insulate the bottom discharge structure for minimizing heat losses from an insulated car. The capstans for rotating the pinion shaft are mounted for folding to an inoperative position in order for the cover to cover the drive means while remaining within clearance limits and without being of an unduly long length.