MetalCowboy-sorry, I can't help you with the first question. The Albion Yards used to be a great place to railfan years ago but I've not lived in northwest PA for over 20 years now.
As far as your scanner question-most, if not all, signals that scanners pick up are FM and pretty much limited to line of sight. GENERALLY, the range is about 25-40 miles but can be either further or shorter depending on terrain, (hills, valleys, large buildings, bodies of water) how high the transmitting antenna is above the terrain and the power of that transmitter.
The sensitivity of your scanner and most important, your antenna, also make a difference. The best scanner money can buy is worthless without a good antenna.
If you'd like to talk more about radio/scanner topics, you're welcome to join us in the Radio Forum.
Art Audley, AA3RT
Moderator: Railroad Radio & Communications, Railroads in Books, Magazines, Music, TV and other Media, General Discussion: Fallen Trolley & Interurban Lines, General Discussion: Shortline, Industrial & Military Railroads,
