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The 'Wheeltappers' duties were the examination of Brakes, Axles and exterior fittings etc. The tap of the hammer was the way he checked for wheel flats which could be caused by skidding wheels, dragging wheels, contaminated track i.e leaf fall etc. The resonant sound by experience told him the wheel was in good order. Today an automated device called a 'Wheelchek' is fitted at the line side. This measures vibration which will show if the wheel is out of round. This information if outside normal parameters, will operate in the controlling Signal Box. The signaller will stop and advise the Driver, who will work forward at the speed advised by the signaller. The Vehicle can be taken out of service where the damaged wheelset will be re-profiled or changed depending on it's condition. It is known that the loud bangs from flats on wheels can cause damage to the rail in the worst circumstances. So reducing the problem to the minimum is to be desired.
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