The adjustable third-rail shoe debate

Since we're in 2011 and there is slight talk of Metro-North coming into Penn Station.

Do I see it happening? No.

But that begs to be seen. I wish Amtrak operated into GCT, as for many it would be slightly more convenient. In fact, it (maybe) the only way that Amtrak could add capacity to the NY-ALB run, a run that thanks to the Adirondack, I have done numerous times.

Now, bearing things, should have the MTA ordered all of the commuter equipment with adjustable third-rail shoes akin to the FL9? My philosophy has always been interoperability. And Amtrak did spend a month at GCT in '08, but needed help from MN, as the third rail on Amtrak P32AC-DMs aren't compatible with the MN bottom running setup.

That gives me another question: why is Metro-North so nit-picky about its operations? Like train doors need to be able to operate automatically, escape hatches on the locomotives, etc (and things I don't even know about). Is it just the way MNRR operates?

P.S. If this is in the wrong subforum, moderators, feel totally free to modify this topic as needed.

EDIT: I forgot something! http://www.subchat.com/readflat.asp?Id=55872

its called making safety your first priority, and no there are currently no real plans for LIRR to go to MNCR or MNCR to go to NYP.
and as for leaving GCT,Amtrak was mandated by our fine leaders in Washington in 1980 to consolidate its NY operations, it was not Amtraks choice.
not sure but I believe it was part of Rail Passenger Service act

DutchRailnut wrote:its called making safety your first priority, and no there are currently no real plans for LIRR to go to MNCR or MNCR to go to NYP.
and as for leaving GCT,Amtrak was mandated by our fine leaders in Washington in 1980 to consolidate its NY operations, it was not Amtraks choice.
not sure but I believe it was part of Rail Passenger Service act

Well, safety is always a first priority, but somehow Amtrak is fine without the escape hatches on their P32AC-DMs heading into NYP. Could it be that the Park Avenue viaduct poses a different challenge for MN in regards to safety?

The tunnels at NYP have side walkways,( http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/200 ... el-600.jpg ) the park avenue tunnel has no clearance to get out the side of a burning or derailed engine.
specially the two outside tracks ( track 3 and 4)

If you look at this brochure :
http://www.schunk-group.com/sixcms/medi ... 2_engl.pdf you will see the Dual purpose shoe/mech on page 9