Private Car Notice 7-04

Subject:

Operational Update

Date: October 22, 2004    From: Don Cushine

Here is an update on several operational issues.

  • Trains 3/4, The Southwest Chief

    Due to the elimination of the Mail and Express business, Trains 3/4, The Southwest Chief, will now regularly operate with only two (2) P42 locomotives. This locomotive requirement is based on the standard consist of 9 cars (which includes 2 sleepers and 3 coaches). An additional three (3) loaded Expresstrak cars may be operated before a third locomotive is required. Also, the baggage car on Train 3 will now originate off the yard at Chicago rather than running thru off Train 29 (see Train 29 below).

  • Trains 7/8/27/28, The Empire Builder

    Due to a projected expansion of the Expresstrak business at Wenatchee (WEN), this train has been placed back into direct release braking.

    Note: Due to the elimination of the Mail and Express business, the mechanical forces at MSP have been eliminated. Therefore, private cars must have their 10 C Daily Inspection Form with the car from their last terminal inspection.

  • Trains 29/30, The Capitol Limited

    Beginning with Train 29(10/20), the baggage car on Train 29 will operate on the head end of the train between the locomotives and first coach. On arrival at CHI, this baggage car will be cut with the road power before the equipment is set over for Train 3. The baggage car for Train 3 will be made-up off the yard with the locomotives. Expresstrak cars will still operate on these trains. The new consist of Train 29 will be as follows:

  • 2 P42 Locomotives
  • Baggage Car
  • 3 Coaches
  • Lounge
  • Diner
  • 2 Sleepers
  • Transition/Crew Sleeper

    There will be no changes to the consist of Train 30 at this time.

  • Trains 40/41, The Three Rivers

    Due to the elimination of the Mail and Express business, Trains 40/41, The Three Rivers, will now regularly operate with only one (1) P42 locomotive PHL-CHI. Also, Expresstrak cars will still operate on these trains.

  • Trains 58/59, The City of New Orleans

    Today, we had an NRPC officers meeting at CNOC in Wilmington. For those that may not be aware, these are the individuals from the freight railroads that we work with. They are the Amtrak liaisons for each respective freight carrier. There were representatives from BNSF, UP, CSX, NS and the CNIC. I know that one of the main concerns that I have heard over the past few years is regarding the contracted 8 car consist limit on the City of New Orleans that results in the addition of a locomotive when a private car is added.

    Note: I personally addressed this issue with the CNIC and they stated that due to operational concerns about reliability, they would not consider changing this policy. I was hoping to have better information for you but, I wanted you to know as soon as I got word.

    Direct/Graduated Release Train List

    At this time the following trains are now operating in direct release:

  • 3/4, The Southwest Chief
  • 7/8/27/28, The Empire Builder
  • 29/30, The Capitol Limited
  • 40/41, The Three Rivers


  • RAILWAY BUSINESS CAR SERVICES
    All Inquires submitted To:
    rbcs@usa.com

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