NYA power questions

[alcoc420]

Why do NYA trains normally have two engines? For the usual lengths of 4 to 8 cars that I see in Smithtown, one locomotive would seem to be more than enough. The second would seem to be a waste of fuel and wear and tear.

Also, is the difference in horsepower between the MP15's and the GP38's noticable? Do the crews have a favorite model?

[jayrmli]

Quite a few reasons actually...

1) Two engines can get you up to speed quicker. Very important when running in between 800 scheduled passenger trains every day.

2) If one engine craps out, you still have another to keep you going.

3) Crews don't have to run engines backwards, which isn't as safe.

4) Some jobs run double ended to help in switching moves and eliminate running around their train.

Jay

[rb]

So, on a push-pull run, are both engines usually crewed?

[jayrmli]

No such animal as a push-pull freight train. The train is double ended.

The rear engine's brakes are set up to work as a boxcar, and the crew rides up front, unless there are extra crew members who wish to ride back there.

Mechanically, it's not the best thing for the engines. The brakes get worn down way too quick and you run the risk of flattening the wheels if the train goes into emergency.

Jay