In what position is the air brake system placed while operating as a RCL?

The air brake system is placed in the trail position while operating as a Remote Control Locomotive (RCL). The trail position allows the air brakes to be applied or released as necessary, ensuring that the train can be stopped or slowed down effectively while in remote operation. This positioning is vital for maintaining control over the train's movement, especially when remote from the engineer’s cab, as it ensures that the braking system is actively engaged with the train's operations.

In contrast, other positions such as the forward, neutral, or reverse may not provide the same level of operational control needed for safety. The forward position is typically used when a train is in motion, and the neutral position would prevent any braking action, which is not suitable for remote operations. The reverse position may cause complications with the braking system's response, further emphasizing why the trail position is essential for effective braking control in this context.