Plate handling system inserting plate from gage side

A rail plate handling device for removing plates located on rail ties on a railroad track having a pair of rails, said device comprising:

• a frame configured for movement relative to the track;
• at least one subframe pivotally engaged on said frame for movement between a raised and a lowered position;
• at least one tie plate gripping assembly mounted each said subframe, said subframe including a pair of opposed gripping jaws configured for grasping a selected tie plate, said gripping jaws being disposed on a jaw guide bar that is slidably engaged on said subframe;
• and
• a control system connected to said at least one tie plate gripping assembly for removing a selected tie plate away from the rail from a gage side of the rail and for retaining the tie plate while the tie is replaced, and for replacing the tie plate upon a new tie and moving the tie plate towards the associated rail from the gage side.

A process for replacing a tie plate on a railroad track during exchange of a tie, using a movable tie plate exchange device having at least one pivoting subframe and a pair of opposed, tie plate gripping jaws, comprising:

• a. extending and lowering jaw-bearing arms of each subframe;
• b. closing the jaws;
• c. lifting the rail;
• d. retracting and raising the arms, holding the plate suspended above the track;
• e. lowering the rail;
• f. removing the tie using a tie exchanging apparatus;
• g. obtaining a new tie and inserting the tie beneath the rail in the location of the previous tie;
• h. lifting the rail;
• i. lowering arms of the subframe, such the plate is located on top of the tie;
• j. gripping the plate using a pair of gripping jaws located on a jaw guide bar, said jaw guide bar being slidable relative to said subframe;
• k. extending the plates toward the rail, such the field side lip of the plate is part way under the rail;
• l. raising a gage side of the plate and continuing to move the plate towards the rail;
• m. the gage side lip of the plate engages the base of the rail, assuring proper left to right placement.
• n. lowering the rail;
• and
• o. releasing the jaws, return the subframe to a travel position.