I've noticed a congregation of SD60Es on most trains operating on the former D&H lines recently. Is this a deliberate move by local managers to get away from having Trip Optimizer and other algorithms decide the power arrangement needed for trains operating over the hills? Are the managers tired of having the computer telling them what amount of power should be necessary when the humans know better?
Railroad Forums
SD60E's on the D&H
- Discussion relating to the NS operations. Official web site can be found here: NSCORP.COM.
A bunch of the SD60Es were equipped with ACSES PTC which is required on MBTA territory. Because of this 11R, 16R, 22K, and 23K have to have a 60E in the lead on Pan Am. It's easier to swap them out in Binghamton than Mechanicville or East Deerfield, so they lead the whole trip. Unfortunately we're stuck with them for the foreseeable future.
If/when 22K/23K are re-routed via trackage rights over CSX between Voorheesville NY and Worcester/Ayer once CSX acquisition of Pan Am is consummated, the IM trains should require only cab-signal equipped and I-ETMS PTC equipped power given the trains won't touch MBTA rails, no ?