Conductors receive information from the crew regarding any equipment problems on the train. They may arrange for defective cars to be removed from the train for repairs at the nearest station or stop. They inform dispatchers of any problems using a radio or wayside telephone. Yard conductors supervise the crews that assemble and disassemble trains. Some cars are sent to unload their cargo on special tracks, while other cars are moved to other tracks to await assemblage into new trains destined for different cities.
Conductors tell engineers the make-up of trains and where to move the cars.
Computerized switches divert the locomotive or cars to the proper track for coupling and uncoupling. Before departure, the train is inspected to make sure all couplers and air-hoses are fastened, all hand brakes on the cars have been released, and the air brakes work properly. While underway, the crew regularly looks for smoke, sparks, and other signs of sticking brakes, overheated axle bearings, and other potentially faulty equipment. They may make minor repairs to air-hoses and couplers. In case of unexpected stops, the crew sets up signals to protect both ends of the train.