Hand Spiking vs. Power Spiking

[Philip Marshall]

It seems appropriate to recommend this short (14-minute) documentary, called "Gandy Dancers":

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3r_cI3kYYhM

It was filmed on the Clinchfield in 1973 and includes some impressive demonstrations of hand spiking.

[Jason M Lamontagne]

That's a very interesting contraption, Ed.  I have a soft spots for lanky, specialized machines...

[Wayne Laepple]

That machine is actually for putting in European-style screw spikes. Only a handful of U.S. railroads used screw spikes. They require special tie plates with round holes, and they hold really well, even when the tie is in bad shape, but they are terrible to get out.

[Ed Lecuyer]

I found several screw-versions of that machine. This one looked different, but I admit you can't really see the mechanism or the details of the spikes/ties. And it's Argentinian narrow gauge, so it's cool none the less.

[Greg Klein]

I agree with everyone that hand spiking is better in the museums case.  Aside from being authentic, it is a great rallying point during the work weekends and is a task that anyone can try.  Some onlookers don't stand still for long!  All you have to do is say "want to try it?" and hopefully you have a new member in the making.  With the huge track crews at the most recent work weekends,  there is always someone to take over if you are tired.

Here is a video will make your arms hurt.  The action starts at 7:45

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fsfyWB6arw

 

[Gordon Cook]

Indeed.
The first time I showed up at a work weekend, I went up to the end of the line looking for a task. 
Steve Z. was at the north end of last stick of rail that just was put down and talking with Dana. Steve was holding a spike maul.
I said " Hi, I'm new here. I'm looking for something to do."
Steve looked at me, said "Hi" and handed me the maul.
It was an appropriate introduction to the WW&F way.

[John L Dobson]

That machine is actually for putting in European-style screw spikes. Only a handful of U.S. railroads used screw spikes. They require special tie plates with round holes, and they hold really well, even when the tie is in bad shape, but they are terrible to get out.

If you have the correct gear they are actually easier to install and extract than the old-style square spikes. On the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland we use several systems involving screw spikes and baseplates. The sleepers (either wood or plastic) are pre-drilled and the screw spike is installed using a powered impact wrench. To remove, reverse the process.