How are axles designated from the "B" end of the car?

Axles on a railway car are designated in a systematic manner to ensure clarity and consistency across operations. Starting from the "B" end of the car, the axle closest to this end is designated as "1." This method allows for easy identification and communication regarding the specific axles when discussing maintenance, repair, and operational procedures.

Designating the first axle closest to the "B" end helps crew members, engineers, and maintenance staff quickly reference and identify the part of the car in discussions or when addressing issues. Utilizing a standardized numbering system is crucial in ensuring that everyone involved in the operations understands which axle is being referred to, minimizing confusion and enhancing safety.

This systematic approach contrasts with other potential methods that may not provide clear identification, such as random designation or identifying axles by coupler types, which may lead to ambiguity and inefficiency in communication.