FRANKLIN PARK, Ill. — Metra continues to test some of its SD70MACH locomotives, even as it works the remanufactured freight units into revenue service [see “Metra SD70MACHs begin revenue service,” Trains News Wire, Nov. 30, 2023]. In a relatively rare move, correspondent Chris Guss caught units 504 and 505 operating back-to-back on a test train on Tuesday, Dec. 5, on the Milwaukee West line at Franklin Park, Ill. Metra units are far more likely to operate individually or, if paired, running elephant style, with both units facing forward. The test runs between Metra’s Western Avenue shops and Franklin Park have become fairly frequent events.
Sirs: I continue to see 7 car Metra commuter trains double-headed even with the new SD70MACHs on the point. 6 car trains run with a single unit whether it is the new SD70s or the older units. Given that the SD70’s have 1,000 more horsepower than the units they are replacing, why does this one additional car continue to need double locomotives?
Slightly off-topic: Why does Metra run two locos on a six car train? I see this several times a day, every day.
You asked this before.
Yes I did but wasn’t able to get back to catch a reply.
In your mind repaint the locomotives in warbonnet colors and tweak the gallery cars into the El Cap.
Very nice, they look great.
A big TNX to Chris for showing what an American passenger train can still look like! Six-axle motive power, back-to-back… fluted stainless steel… Chicago…
For new engines, they sure are smokin it up on the run up.