gripmen
Streetcar cable handlers
Gripmen is the plural of gripman, the operator of a cable car who controls the grip—a mechanical clamp that latches onto the continuously moving underground cable to propel the car.
The term survives mainly in San Francisco, where cable cars still run: The gripmen ring their bells at each intersection.
Pivoting bar for lifting
- tractionAdhesive friction enabling movement
- pulleyGrooved wheel for rope
- cogwheelToothed rotating machine part
- gearToothed wheel or belongings
bearings · brake shoe · tension · torque · maintenance · inspection · wear · adjustment
Heavy-duty woven line
- tractionAdhesive friction enabling movement
- brakeDevice to slow motion
- controlAuthority to direct
- steerDirect movement or castrated bull
navigate · maneuver · handle · regulate · switches · levers · timing · skill
lever
Pivoting bar for lifting
- tractionAdhesive friction enabling movement
- pulleyGrooved wheel for rope
- cogwheelToothed rotating machine part
gear · bearings · brake shoe · tension · torque · maintenance · inspection · wear · adjustment · lubrication
cable
Heavy-duty woven line
steer · navigate · maneuver · handle · regulate · switches · levers · timing · skill · strength
San Francisco
Northern California metropolis
- Fisherman's WharfFamous harborside tourist zone
- ChinatownAsian immigrant neighborhood
- turntableRotating music player
switchback · bell · clanging · uniform · brakeman · conductor · steep · hill · ascend · descend
gripmenmotormen
Rail vehicle drivers
passengers · conductors · bus drivers · taxi drivers · chauffeurs