Preview Trains September/October 2023 content below. We’re always adding new content to our website! Here’s a sneak peek at a few items coming up these next few months.
Five mind-blowing facts — Cabooses
The caboose was not just the last car on the train. This railroad icon played many roles including passenger car, auto carrier, office, and even economic hedge against the Great Depression. Article by Bob Lettenberger.
A pair of little-known diesel locomotives
A pair of little-known Geep diesel locomotives, the GP15D and GP20D, looked like sure winners, but they sank with hardly a ripple when they hit the market in the early 2000s. Article by David Lustig.
From the Cab: If you run it they will ride
Not all of Amtrak’s plans have succeeded as envisioned, unfortunately. One, in particular, comes to mind. Check out Doug Riddell’s new column.
Icy Hot: How to keep your diesel cool
Cooling has always been one of the most important aspects of a locomotive. Simply put, the higher the horsepower, the more cooling a locomotive needs. With the implementation of emission regulations over the last several decades, the amount of cooling has increased to meet requirements at each of the four levels of new-locomotives standards. Article by Chris Guss.
Coming in October…
Amtrak’s Dash 8-32BWH
In the early 1990s, as the bulk of Amtrak’s EMD F40PH diesel fleet began nearing potential retirement age, the passenger carrier quietly began nosing around for potential replacements. After testing Electro Motive’s F69 AC traction prototypes, the company opted to explore a less-expensive option. Article by David Lustig.
Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania’s world class interpretation of railroading offers one of the most significant and cohesive collections, with superb restoration, and exemplary presentation for public enjoyment and education. Travel column by Brian Solomon
LA’s Taylor Yard: Always something different
A wise man once said, “The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.” It’s a nice thought. But he never met a train fan. For decades, whenever I had a few free minutes, I’d drive down to Southern Pacific’s sprawling Taylor Yard complex in Los Angeles to see what was in town. Most of the time it was just regular power, and cookie-cutter freight cars… Article by David Lustig.
