Why no Horizon cab cars?

Just a general question after a conversation with a friend. Why did Antrak opt to have engines on either side or to wye when purchasing the Horizons? Also, can any existing Horizons be converted into cab cars?

Recall at that time (1989) the Metroliners were being converted to push-pull, so cabs were already available.
Some of the rebuilt Metroliners were to be assigned to Michigan/Midwest services along with the Horizons.

State of Michigan also funded some Metroliner rebuilds for corridor service.

Not going to happen. New standards for buffer strength on cab car and MU locomotives went into effect after some fatalities in the 1990s. Existing equipment was grandfathered, but a Horizon recertification would need a total redesign on the end to be in compliance. Its cheaper and operationally more reliable to double end the corridor trains with locomotives or cabbages.

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