Class 185 Autocoupler Collar

[Crossover]

Quick question and I'm sure someone will answer this in a few words but what is the fluorescent "collar" that the 185's seem to be currently (well, were last week at least) sporting over their autocouplers?

See picture below showing what I mean

 

[frequent flyer]

I'm by no means an expert, but I noticed these last year. They were put all the way over the coupler in the snow and looked a bit like a yellow bag - i'd assume this was to provide them with some protection during poor weather. Perhaps they've put them on now so they know where they are when they need them.

 

[Barrett M95]

I agree with the above. Looks like a winter protection measure. Prevent ice build-up on exposed coupler heads. Causes many many problems for drivers and depot staff alike.

I presume the idea is that the collar is fixed at the rear somehow and it can be pulled over the coupler head at a moments notice when weather gets severe.

 

[mbonwick]

They're bags to protect the couplers during snow/icy weather.
TPE are making sure they're ahead of schedule in fitting them this year.

 

[ValleyLines142]

TPE are preparing for the winter weather and are being very cautious. After all, we don't want a repear of 185144's collision do we!?

 

[Crossover]

That makes sense - didn't even cross my mind that they may be bags in disguise :P
Thanks guys

DanTrainMan185 - Indeed they are, although I can't help but think that bags or not, train vs big wall of ice will only have one outcome.....and the ice probably won't lose :P

 

[Nym]

I beleive there are countermeasures in place against that this year, the're going to position politicians stategically near the vent shafts and make them talk to disperse the ice in small quantities before it can form dangerously large crystals.