What is the correct description of what a locomotive engineer does?
Drive the train?
Operate the train?
Contol the train?
Engineer the train?
Does it matter if the motive power is steam or diesel?
Steve
Im most familliar with Run the train.
As long as I have been railroading,it’s always been called “running”. In fact,when engineers are promoted,it’s called" set up running".
We always refer to it as operating the train at the museum but it’s electric streetrailway equipment, so the terminology likely a bit different. However running the train does seem to be the most common term used when one is thinking of steam or diesel powered trains.
That seems to make sence becaus eif you look at steam operations. the fireman fires the boiler, and the Conductor on passenger trains. basically directs passengers and crews or conducts operations.
Therfore the engineer is in control of the movement of the train so yes I think runs is the most appropriate term.
Rob
Balling the Jack! Running seems to be the most accepted term here.
The engineer runs his iron horse.
i believe he runs the train. Tim